20-40 litre daypacks
A GOOD DAYPACK is an essential item. ‘Good’ means one that’s comfortable to carry, holds all your gear, and has features you find useful. Not every pack is ideal for everyone.
‘Daypack’ is a broad term, and it varies depending on the time of year and what you intend to do with it. Here I’m looking at packs ranging from small three-season ‘summer’ daypacks to larger models that are big enough to be accommodate the extra gear you need for winter hill days, hut-to-hut trips and even overnight camps with light gear. The minimum you need for the latter is around 30 litres; minimalists may be able to squeeze enough gear for winter use or wild camping into this size of pack, but most people probably won’t.
Smaller packs generally have simple harness systems with just a padded back and shoulder straps plus a webbing waist strap. This is fine for loads up to 3-5kg. For heavier loads, bigger packs with frames and padded hipbelts are more comfortable.
Many packs have curved backs with an air gap to allow sweat to dissipate. These are more comfortable, especially in hot weather, but they hold the load away from the back, which can compromise stability. They’re also not so good in winter conditions as snow can pack in between the rucksack and your back (I speak from experience!). The curved shape can make them awkward to pack and they generally weigh more than simpler designs. The bigger the air gap, the better the breathability – but this also magnifies the problems.
Body-hugging packs are usually very stable, but you are likely end up with a damp back. Many such packs have breathable mesh or foam against the back or else channels to conduct away damp air. These are somewhat effective but don’t
