14 Finest Ultralight Backpacks for Backpacking [2024] BikeHikeSafari


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It is a gear evaluation of The Finest Ultralight Backpacks for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2024.

Ultralight backpacks are getting higher. It’s not vital to hold a 6 lb / 2.5 kg backpack as was regular 10 or 20 years in the past. Ultralight packs are the brand new regular. If you happen to haven’t tried an ultralight rucksack you then may be shocked to study that they’re the true deal and well worth the funding.

All of the rucksacks listed under are extremely rated by long-distance thru-hikers as backpacks worthy of consideration. Most long-distance mountaineering trails require a powerful, purposeful light-weight backpack within the 35-60 liter vary which is the primary focus of this text.


How We Examined

All of the Backpacking Backpacks on this evaluation have been extensively evaluated and researched by the skilled writer who has a few years of expertise in Through-Climbing, Backpacking, and Climbing. A number of the Backpacks had been bought by the writer and a few had been equipped by the producer. They’ve been rigorously examined by the writer in every kind of climate on thru-hiking and backpacking journeys. The analysis, testing, and expertise of the writer have mixed to provide you with one of the best ultralight backpacks for 2024. Learn the Evaluation Coverage for additional particulars.


Finest Light-weight Backpacks for Backpacking 2024

The Finest Light-weight Backpacks for Backpacking in 2024 are:

Finest Ultralight Backpack – Total

Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L ReviewZpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L Review

Weight: 21.4 oz / 606 grams (50L Medium)
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Good weight carrying capability of as much as 40lb
> Waterproof and seam sealed
> Extra sturdy than different ultralight packs
> Good vary of sizes from 40L to 70L and in unisex and girls’s sizes
Cons:
> Not Low cost

The Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely is an ultralight backpack greatest suited to thru-hiking and backpacking journeys. When backpackers are in search of an ultralight backpack the Zpacks model is without doubt one of the greatest.

The Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely makes use of the comparatively new Extremely cloth. It’s extra abrasion resistant than beforehand used ultralight materials akin to Dyneema and nonetheless simply as waterproof. The pack encompasses a roll-top closure. I like roll-top closures as a result of if you might want to carry a giant load or a small load you may alter the closure completely.

There are two purposeful facet pockets which can be good for water bottles and tent poles. I used to be in a position to match 3L water bottles within the facet pockets at a squeeze however they do match 2 x 2L bottles in every pocket. So good storage capability when wanted. The rear stretch mesh pocket is a beneficiant measurement and excellent for airing out moist rain jackets or mountaineering socks and for storing gadgets you need fast entry to.

The carbon fiber body is light-weight and the addition of a ventilated mesh again panel provides to the consolation of the pack. It’ll match a bear canister when mountaineering in bear nation and the bigger 70L model will match the canister horizontally to make sure loads of room for different gear.

Total, that is one of the best ultralight backpack of [currrentyear]. Ultralight backpackers will naturally be dreaming of utilizing this backpack. It’s the greatest total ultralight backpack.

Finest Ultralight Backpack – Runner Up

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L Evaluation

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L BackpackHyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L Backpack

Weight: 30.1 oz / 853.3 grams
Professionals:

> Light-weight
> Waterproof
> Good entry to facet pockets
> A number of exterior storage choices
> Comfy even with a little bit of weight within the pack
> Very Sturdy
Cons:
> Not good for anybody who desires to hold plenty of gear

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L is the latest ultralight backpack from HMG. It is rather a lot focused in direction of thru-hikers or backpackers desirous to lighten their load on their subsequent in a single day backpacking journey or multi-month thru-hike.

Though it’s known as the Unbound 40L, it has a complete capability of 49 liters. With a 40L inner capability and a beneficiant 9L of storage within the facet and rear pockets.

This smaller-sized 40L pack won’t be for everybody. However after you have a light-weight and compact sleep system, have eliminated all of your unneeded luxurious gadgets, and wish to set off with minimal stress in your physique then that is for you. If you’d like just a little extra storage HMG just lately launched Unbound 55L which is a 68L backpack if you happen to embody the massive exterior storage pockets.

With a number of exterior storage areas, it’s good for locating a spot in your moist rain jacket after that brief rain bathe. And it has waterproof zips on the hip belt pockets which is a bonus. Talking of rain, relaxation assured that your gear will keep dry on this waterproof backpack that even has seam sealing to make sure your gear stays dry.

The facet pockets are the proper place for carrying a number of liters of water throughout that desert part of the path. Hyperlite Mountain Gear put some thought and energy into the exterior storage areas on this pack.

Total, that is the proper backpack for thru-hiking or these shorter multiday backpacking journeys the place you don’t have an excessive amount of stuff. It is without doubt one of the greatest ultralight packs for 2024.

Most Comfy Ultralight Backpack

Osprey Exos Professional 55L Evaluation

Osprey Exos Pro 55L Thru Hiking Backpack ReviewOsprey Exos Pro 55L Thru Hiking Backpack Review

Weight: 33.2 oz / 942 g (S/M measurement)
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Giant capability 55L
> Nice for thru-hiking
> Giant facet pockets
> Bearvault 500 suits horizontally which makes this completely suited to locations such because the JMT and PCT.
Cons:
> Not waterproof, wants a pack cowl or inner pack liner
> The detachable lid is just additional weight and never that purposeful for many ultralight hikers

The Osprey Exos Professional is a model new mannequin launched initially of 2023. Together with the ladies’s Osprey Eja Professional, they’re basically trimmed down ultralight variations of the very fashionable Exos and Levity fashions.

The newly launched Exos Professional and Eja Professional are lighter in weight, simply as purposeful, and are simply essentially the most snug light-weight backpacks available on the market in 2024.

I’ve used the common older Exos for greater than 10000 miles / 16000 km of mountaineering and backpacking all over the world and the brand new Osprey Exos Professional is every part that the outdated mannequin was however lighter weight and with a few useful upgrades.

There’s a new silicon part on the again of the hipbelt which retains the pack locked in place higher than earlier than. And consistent with the just lately upgraded Exos, the Professional model continues to make use of hipbelt pockets. They’re sufficiently big for many giant smartphones, snacks, and extra.

The Osprey Exos Professional is without doubt one of the few light-weight backpacks that also provide a hydration sleeve in your hydration bladder which I like. And the facet pockets are higher than every other pack on this evaluation. And the facet pockets are sufficiently big to hold 2 x 4L water bladders if wanted. Whereas the HMG Outbound 40L can be able to this, the Exos Professional has a lot simpler entry than every other backpack on this evaluation.

The outer cloth is lighter than earlier fashions and produced from recycled supplies. You’ll nonetheless want a waterproof backpack cowl or inner pack liner to maintain issues dry when the climate turns nasty because the pack is just water-resistant. There’s a detachable high lid on his backpack. Throughout testing, I eliminated the highest lid and located the backpack works effectively by simply utilizing the small lid flap to maintain the backpack closed and dry.

The ventilated body is best than every other backpack on this evaluation. It does an ideal job of permitting air stream round your again. And the adjustable shoulder straps, load lifters, and comfy harness all mix to make this a brilliant snug backpack. If it is vital so that you can have a light-weight backpack that may be very snug, then look no additional that is one of the best one on the market.

Total, the Osprey Exos Professional is essentially the most snug light-weight backpack available on the market for 2024. Preserve studying to study each little element about this backpack.

Finest Light-weight Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest Evaluation

Hyperlite Mountain Gear SouthWest BackpackHyperlite Mountain Gear SouthWest Backpack

Weight:
2400 40 liter – 30 oz / 850 grams
3400 55 liter – 32 oz / 910 grams
4400 55 liter – 39 oz / 1100 grams
Professionals:
> Very light-weight & waterproof backpack
> Robust and sturdy. In a position to final a number of long-distance thru-hikes
> Comfy
> Standard with ultralight backpackers
> Nice exterior pockets, and storage for water bottles
Cons:
> Not Low cost

Hyperlite Mountain Gear SouthWest backpacks are made out of tremendous light-weight Dyneema Composite Hybrid Cloth backpacks. That is an upgraded very of the outdated Cuban Fiber. They arrive in a selection of 40 Liter, 55 liters, and a really giant 70 liter, with the 55L being extra in style.

The HMG Southwest has nice exterior pockets each on the rear and facet of the pack. They’re good for storing gear akin to moist rain gear, snacks, first help provides, water bottles, umbrellas and a lot extra. The entrance pocket and facet exterior pockets make nice water bottle pockets. The carrying capability in the primary compartment is kind of giant.

The Southwest is waterproof in all however the very worst of climate. In lots of conditions you’ll not want to make use of any waterproof baggage inside, simply don’t take the pack swimming or Packrafting.

It makes use of two aluminum stays and a 1/4-inch foam backing on the again panel which may be very snug. The ultralight backpack has a cushty again panel and shoulder straps.

Total this can be a easy, high-quality pack that may be very in style amongst hikers for good purpose. This might be probably the greatest ultralight packs available on the market proper now and probably the greatest packs on this listing.

That is the greatest backpack for the Appalachian Path as a result of waterproof Dyneema composite materials and the path being fairly wet. In reality, that is one of the best backpacking backpack for unhealthy climate and there’s no actual want for a rain cowl.

Finest Giant Capability Backpack

Gossamer Gear Mariposa Evaluation

Gossamer Gear Mariposa Large Backpack ReviewGossamer Gear Mariposa Large Backpack Review

Weight: 31.5 oz / 895 grams
Professionals:

> Nice for heavy hundreds
> Light-weight
> Giant Capability 60L Backpack
> Nice Facet Pockets
> Moderately Priced
Cons:
> Not as snug as a few of the different packs on this evaluation

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa is without doubt one of the hottest light-weight backpacks available on the market in 2024. Perhaps Osprey is the one different pack you will notice on thru-hiking trails greater than this Gossamer Gear Backpack.

After I tried the Gossamer Gear Mariposa I discovered it wasn’t fairly as snug because the Exos however had significantly better exterior pockets. The Mariposa has a few of the greatest exterior pockets of any of the backpacks on this evaluation. It is possible for you to to discover a area for every part.

Made with high quality Robic Cloth and one of many solely packs on this evaluation that may permit you to match a bear canister horizontally contained in the backpack. Add to that the standard load-carrying capability of this backpack and all of it combines to make it probably the greatest.

Total, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa is one of the best ultralight backpack for heavy hundreds and positively one of the in style backpacks available on the market.

Extra Backpacking Backpacks

Zpacks Arc Blast Evaluation

zpacks arc blast reviewzpacks arc blast review

Weight: 19.9 oz / 565.0 g
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Very talked-about thru-hiking backpack
> Comfy
> The right-sized backpack for many in a single day or multi-day journeys
> Nice facet pockets and rear mesh pocket
Cons:
> Ultralight Backpack that isn’t as sturdy as another heavier backpacks
> Costly

The Zpacks Arc Blast has been one of the in style ultralight backpacks for thru-hiking till the Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely hit the scene. When backpackers are in search of an ultralight backpack the Zpacks Arc Blast is actually probably the greatest.

It’s made with light-weight Dyneema composite cloth which isn’t solely very gentle however waterproof. To help with water resistance the pack encompasses a roll-top closure. I like roll-top closures as a result of if you might want to carry a giant load or a small load you may alter the closure completely.

Two very useful and purposeful facet pockets are good for water bottles and tent poles. The rear mesh pocket is a beneficiant measurement and excellent for airing out moist rain jackets or socks.

The body can be light-weight and provides to the consolation of the pack. It’s also designed to suit a bear canister when mountaineering in bear nation and there’s a hydration port if you happen to select to hike with a water hydration bladder.

Total, that is one of the best ultralight backpack for thru-hiking or backpacking whenever you need the best high quality ultralight backpack. That is my selection for a thru-hiking backpack.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider Evaluation

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider Ultralight BackpackHyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider Ultralight Backpack

Weight:
2400 40 liters 30 oz / 850 grams
3400 55 liters 32 oz / 902 grams
4400 70 liters 39 oz / 1105 grams
Professionals:
> Light-weight & waterproof
> Robust sufficient to final a number of long-distance thru-hikes
> Comfy
> Standard with ultralight backpackers
> Nice mesh pockets, exterior pocket, and storage for water bottles
Cons:
> Not Low cost

It’s a arduous selection with regards to which is one of the best Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG) backpack. They’re all made out of tremendous light-weight Dyneema Composite Hybrid Cloth and all are nice backpacks. However I favor the Southwest over the Windrider as a result of rear cloth pocket, in comparison with the mesh pocket on the Windrider. Nonetheless, in case you are mountaineering in areas the place you would favor an open mesh pocket to air out moist gear, then the HMG Windrider is a greater choice.

The HMG Windrider is available in 40L, 55L, and 70L variations, with the 55-liter being the most well-liked. If you’re committing to ultralight backpacking, the remainder of your gear is light-weight and compact then the 40L is an efficient choice.

Whereas the brand new Unbound makes use of just one backstay, the Windrider makes use of two aluminum stays and a 1/4-inch foam backing on the again panels. This makes for a cushty again panel. Add to that the snug shoulder harness and this can be a snug backpack.

The entrance mesh pocket and facet mesh exterior pockets make nice water bottle pockets. The carrying capability in the primary compartment of all sizes of backpacks is kind of giant.

Total, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider is a good thru-hiking backpack and excellent for moist trails the place you may wish to use the mesh pockets to dry your moist gear whereas backpacking.

Osprey Exos Evaluation

Osprey Exos Backpack reviewOsprey Exos Backpack review

Weight:
48 liters – 44 oz / 1255 grams
58 liters – 45 oz / 1288 grams
Professionals:

> Lifetime assure – if the pack breaks they repair or exchange it
> The mesh harness permits air circulation across the again.
> Some of the snug ultralight backpack for carrying heavier hundreds
Cons:
> Heaviest of all of the packs listed.
> Mesh pockets on the facet and rear of the packs are susceptible to rips and tears.

The Osprey Exos has been one of the snug light-weight backpacks for a few years, however with the introduction of the brand new Osprey Exos Professional, this mannequin has moved a bit firther down the listing.

Lately, Osprey purchased again the hip belt pockets that they eliminated on the final couple of fashions which is a step in the best path. They’re on each the 58L and 48L backpacks which is a good characteristic.

I’ve used the Osprey Exos on all of my Triple Crown hikes. On the PCT I used the massive capability 58 liter which is the proper measurement to suit a bear canister horizontally. Whereas all the opposite packs on this evaluation can carry a bear canister, they must put the bear canister in vertically.

The massive capability fundamental compartment additionally permits for plenty of room to haul a number of liters of water together with a number of days of meals via the desert or mountains.

In relation to Bear Canisters all of the ultralight packs on this evaluation can match the Bear Canister vertically however few can match them horizontally, the Osprey Exos 58L model can.

The Osprey Exos 58 weights 37oz whereas the Exos 48 weights 36oz.

It additionally has room for a hydration pack in the primary compartment and the ventilated again panel which works effectively. The highest lid of the Osprey Exos is unusual and the added weight of the detachable mind is totally ineffective for most individuals. In reality, simply do away with the highest lid, it isn’t value it and avoid wasting weight on the method.

I modified to the Osprey Exos 48 liter for the CDT and AT as I didn’t want a lot carrying capability. This is without doubt one of the greatest light-weight backpacking backpacks and essentially the most snug ultralight backpack on this evaluation.

The Osprey Exos is the really useful pack if you wish to carry barely heavier hundreds and usually are not able to decide to turning into an ounce-counting ultra-light hiker.

Each the shoulder straps and hip belt make this one of the best pack available on the market for consolation, effectively not less than with regards to light-weight backpacks. I discovered the hip belt to be essentially the most snug out of all of the packs on this evaluation.

The shoulder straps are tremendous snug. You may strap trekking poles to the pack with out utilizing the compression straps to carry them in. The Trekking pole straps are generally annoying and I discovered that I hardly ever used them. I most popular to strap them to the facet of the pack utilizing compression straps.

One other good characteristic of the Exos is the value. It is without doubt one of the best-priced backpacking packs available on the market. And a few say it’s the greatest backpacking model for rookies and skilled hikers wanting a lighter pack.

And like all the opposite light-weight packs on this evaluation, it isn’t designed to hold heavy hundreds like 35 kilos or comparable. Total, it is without doubt one of the greatest backpacks for the Pacific Crest Path.

Osprey Levity 45L

Osprey Levity Super Lightweight BackpackOsprey Levity Super Lightweight Backpack

Weight: 28.9 oz / 820 grams
Professionals:

> Light-weight
> Lifetime Assure
> Comfy
> Good facet pockets and rear stretch mesh pocket
Cons:
> No Hip Pockets
> Discontinued so not many accessible, test costs under and decide up a cut price

The Osprey Levity has now been discontinued however that’s excellent news for somebody wanting a light-weight backpack at an affordable worth, however be fast, there usually are not too many left now that the tremendous superior Osprey Exos Professional is available on the market.

The Osprey Levity is a brilliant light-weight backpacking backpack that may be a good compromise between light-weight, sturdiness, and carrying consolation.

The Osprey Levity comes with the identical lifetime assure because the Exos however is a bit lighter. This light-weight does restrict how snug the pack is when carrying a heavy load however when carrying a light-weight load this pack is snug.

The fabric used is a light-weight 30-denier cloth which is powerful and abrasion resistant.

The harness and hip belts are good and the facet pockets are good for something from tent poles to water bottle storage to meals storage. However no hip belt pockets which is a little bit of a damaging.

Total, the Osprey Levity is an efficient light-weight backpacking backpack. The Girls’s Osprey Lumina 45 is the Girls’s Backpack model with comparable specs.

Gossamer Gear Kumo Evaluation

Weight: 18oz / 525 g
Professionals:

> Extraordinarily light-weight packs
> Nice worth for cash
> Lengthy put on life
Cons:
> Not snug with heavy hundreds
> 36 liters is small for many hikers
> Just for ultra-light hikers who’ve their light-weight gear dialed in

Gossamer Gear is a well known pack producer and an ideal selection for the minimalist hike.

Their bigger packs such because the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 are in style however the lighter packs such because the Kumo are a few of the higher ultralight packs you will get proper now.

Once more, like plenty of the packs talked about, don’t load these packs with an excessive amount of stuff. They’re for ultra-light hikers solely.

It comes with a roll-top closure and total the primary compartment isn’t that huge. The massive water bottle pockets on the facet and the massive stretch cloth pocket on the again make the pack fairly a bit larger than it’s.

At 36 liters they’re small packs which can be sufficient for thru-hiker and Bikepacker Onna ‘Onnamove’ Voellmer.

Onna used the Kumo 36L when she hiked the Pacific Crest Path, Continental Divide Path, and Arizona Path. She regards it as the proper light-weight backpack for thru-hiking and peak bagging.

She studies that the shoulder straps on the pack are snug with hundreds as much as 20lb (9kg) however it’s usually loaded up with 25lb (11kg) when leaving city after a giant resupply.

Though it comes with a equipped again pad that sits on the again panel, she makes use of the sleeping mat and the Gossamer Gear Nightlight sleeping pad for additional padding. It’s arduous to search out something fallacious with this pack, besides it is just for ultra-light hikers who’ve dedicated to light-weight gear.

Onna ‘Onnamove’ Voellmer used the Kumo 36 and shares her mountaineering and Bikepacking adventures on https://www.instagram.com/theredheadednomad/

This light-weight rucksack is for backpackers who’ve already dialed of their gear and will solely be used at the side of an Ultralight Backpacking Quilt and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

ULA – Circuit / CDT Evaluation

ULA CDT backpackULA CDT backpack

Weight:
Circuit 68L – 37.3 oz – 1038 grams
CDT 54L – 27.1 oz / 768 grams
Professionals:

> The CDT is a pleasant light-weight backpack.
> Comfy with heavier hundreds.
> The ULA backpacks provide non-obligatory colours, pockets, and customized embroidery.
Cons:
> The ULA Circuit is a bit heavy however the newer Extremely Cloth is an efficient selection.

A number of the hottest backpacks on long-distance mountaineering trails are the ULA Circuit (68 liters) and the ULA CDT (54 liters).

They’re robust, light-weight, and appropriate for any long-distance thru-hike. Whereas the ULA Circuit is the most well-liked pack I favor the ULA CDT for its lighter weight and no-frills options. Upgrades for 2022 by ULA embody hip belts with a bigger pocket which is now sufficiently big for large-sized smartphones.

The Circuit is the heaviest of all of the packs listed right here and at 68 liters is kind of giant. These packs additionally include non-obligatory shoulder pockets. They’re actually robust as they’re made with the Robic 400 cloth. The ULA Circuit is also made with the brand new, gentle, and robust Extremely cloth which is a bit lighter. On the time of writing the ULA CDT was solely made with Robic cloth.

Would you prefer to have your path title or web site embroidered onto your pack or have your personal customized coloration? They will do this for a few {dollars} additional.

Mountain Laurel Designs Burn Evaluation

Mountain Laurel Designs Burn Ultralight BackpackMountain Laurel Designs Burn Ultralight Backpack

Weigh: 14oz / 400g
Professionals:

> Extraordinarily light-weight packs
> Nice worth for cash
> Lengthy put on life
> Among the finest thru-hiking packs
Cons:
> Not snug with heavy hundreds
> Just for ultra-light hikers

The Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) Burn is of the lightest high-quality backpacks available on the market. They just lately upgraded the material to make use of the newish Extremely Cloth which I believe is one of the best backpack cloth available on the market in the meanwhile.

The MLB Burn is an ultralight pack for the skilled thru-hiker solely, which have already progressed from light-weight backpacking to ultralight backpacking.

They’re just for hikers which have a really gentle base pack weight of round 10lb (4.5kg) or lighter. If you’re an already skilled hiker and have already began the journey of shifting from Light-weight to Ultralight then this may be a backpack for you.

Fellow Aussie Through Hiker Cam ‘Swami’ Honan has used the MLD Burn for hundreds of miles of mountaineering all over the world. He reported that the pack is snug as lengthy the pack weight being carried is gentle hundreds lower than 22lb (10kg.) The MLD Burn is sturdy sufficient to final him not less than 8000 miles (13000km).

It has small exterior pockets with two facet pockets and a entrance mesh pocket. It additionally has a roll-top lid which thru-hikers love when they should entry the primary compartment shortly.

This light-weight rucksack ought to solely be used at the side of an Ultralight Backpacking Quilt and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

Cam ‘Swami’ Honan makes use of the MLD Burn and writes about all issues mountaineering on his web site https://www.thehikinglife.com/

Pa’lante V2 Ultralight Backpack Evaluation

Pa'lante V2 Ultralight BackPack ReviewPa'lante V2 Ultralight BackPack Review

Weight: 17.6 oz / 499 grams
Professionals:
> Finest gentle mountaineering backpack for ultralight hikers
> Nice easy design with shoulder pockets and a backside pocket underneath
> Good worth for cash
Cons:
> Not snug with heavy hundreds above 25lb (11kg)
> Just for ultra-light hikers with a really low base weight
> Doubtlessly lengthy wait occasions for supply

The Pa’lante V2 is an ultralight pack for the hiker trying to lighten their gear weight. This pack is frameless with a roll-top closure so solely appropriate for many who have a low base weight.

At 17.6 oz / 499 grams, it’s a worthy ultra-light selection to think about.

Skilled thru-hiker Micheal ‘Grizzly’ Ivey who has a base weight of round 8-9lb (4kg) makes use of this pack. As his base weight is so low he doesn’t use the hip belt. It ought to be talked about that hip belts are non-obligatory on this pack. The entire weight of the rucksack is on the shoulder straps.

Grizzly hiked the Pacific Crest Path with me in 2015 and once more in 2019. He additionally hiked the Continental Divide Path, Colorado Path twice, and Superior Path.

He reported that the Pa’lante V2 is one of the best ultralight backpack and the proper measurement for him as he’s an ultralight hiker. It’s snug so long as the contents of the pack weight are saved under 25lb (11kg).

The pack isn’t waterproof and he makes use of a pack liner. He likes the pack a lot that he used it on his 2019 thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Path.

Micheal ‘Grizzly’ Ivey makes use of the Pa’lante V2, you may comply with him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michael_j_ivey/

This light-weight rucksack ought to solely be used at the side of an Ultralight Backpacking Quilts and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.


Different Packs to think about

Different Nice Packs:

  • Mountain Laurel Designs Prophet: Just like the MLD Burn within the evaluation above, the Prophet is a brilliant light-weight backpack greatest suited to skilled ultralight backpackers.
  • Final Designs Fastpack 40: The Final Designs backpack is a cross between a path operating vest and a backpack. This pack has not been examined but and could also be added to the evaluation sooner or later.
  • Six Moon Designs Swift X: The Six Moons Designs Swift X is a top quality backpack that I’m but to evaluation.
  • Granite Gear: In addition they make some nice backpacking backpacks however most of them usually are not ultralight. Granite Gear packs are snug and higher at carrying heavier hundreds.
  • Durston Kakwa 55L: This pack ticks plenty of containers for somebody in search of a highly-rated ultralight pack. I hope to check this pack quickly.


Finest Total light-weight backpack

The very best light-weight backpack is the Osprey Exos Professional which is snug and in a position to carry heavier hundreds if wanted.

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear packs are one of the best waterproof backpacks available on the market proper now. They’re one of the best compromise between light-weight, robust supplies, and they’re able to carry heavy hundreds if wanted. As they’re produced from Cuban Fibre which is now generally known as Dyneema, they’re essentially the most waterproof of all of the packs. They’d be the proper light-weight backpack for thru-hiking and backpacking.

Osprey Exos on the PCT during the review of this backpackOsprey Exos on the PCT during the review of this backpack
Gear Testing the Osprey Exos 58 on the Pacific Crest Path

Finest Ultralight backpack

The Zpacks Arc Haul Extremely is one of the best ultralight backpack for 2024. It simply beat out the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L Backpack.

These backpacks usually are not solely ultralight however top quality, waterproof and can be very fashionable on all of the thru-hiking trails on the earth this 12 months. If you’d like an ultralight backpack, these are for you.

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L backpackZpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L backpack

Why use an Extremely Mild Backpack

Making the transfer from a conventional backpacking setup to a light-weight backpacking setup, then shifting even additional to ultralight backpacks isn’t for everybody. Particularly with regards to ultralight backpacks.

Having a base weight of 13lb / 6kg or under will make mountaineering a lot simpler. There won’t solely be much less stress on the physique however much less probability of damage and far much less fatigue on the finish of a day backpacking. With time and expertise, you may lighten your baseweight to under 10 lb / 4.5 kg fairly simply.

All the ultralight backpacks listed are really useful as a significant step in lightening the bottom weight of your mountaineering gear.

Carrying a backpack on the Inca Trail Peru in 1997Carrying a backpack on the Inca Trail Peru in 1997
Gone are the times of carrying a heavy backpack as I did in Peru circa 1997!

A Phrase of Warning about Ultralight Backpacks

Don’t take into account shopping for any of the MLD, Gossamer Gear, or Pa’lante packs except you might be dedicated to having a base weight under 11lb / 5kg.

If you wish to use an ultralight backpack just like the backpacks on this evaluation, then you must solely use it at the side of an Ultralight Backpacking Quilts or Ultralight Sleeping Bag and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

Carrying hundreds heavier than 22-25lb (10-12kg) with any MLD, Gossamer Gear or Pa’lante packs won’t be essentially the most snug ultralight backpack. Some don’t include a hip belt or the hip belt is non-obligatory. Carrying heavy load with these backpacks usually are not an choice. You have got been warned!

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra BackpackZpacks Arc Haul Ultra Backpack
The writer testing the Zpacks Backpack

Backpack Body vs Frameless Packs

Which backpack is greatest for you, one with a body or frameless packs?

Frameless Backpacks

Frameless Backpacks are lighter and easy. Backpacks with frames are arguably essentially the most snug ultralight packs.

Frameless backpacks are for the hiker trying to transfer to ultralight backpacking who can be carrying a lot much less weight.

A frameless pack ought to solely be used if the masses usually are not too heavy and the gear is packed thoughtfully. Then they are going to be snug.

Some ultralight backpacks save much more weight by not utilizing the hip belts.

For instance, don’t pack your range in your backpack so it pushes a pointy object onto your again.

Body Backpack

Backpacks with a body are typically extra snug however barely heavier than frameless backpacks. They’re additionally significantly better at carrying a heavier load. If you’re in search of carrying consolation and have a heavier load then these will finally be higher for you.

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra frame and ventilation on the backZpacks Arc Haul Ultra frame and ventilation on the back
Carbon Fiber Body and Air flow on the Zpacks Backpack throughout testing

Supplies

With names akin to Dyneema Composite Cloth, Extremely, Robic, and nylons are extra which of them are greatest for backpacks and why. There are lots of different materials however these ones are the higher ultralight materials which can be powerful sufficient for backpacks.


Dyneema Composite Hybrid Cloth Backpacks

Dyneema Composite Hybrid Cloth (DCH) is the subsequent evolution of the DCF cloth (Cuban Fiber). DCH backpacks are light-weight and waterproof like the unique DCF however far more abrasion resistant. DCH materials is kind of a bit dearer than different supplies and appears to be affected by provide chain points.

Testing the HMG Unbound 40L Backpack and the Dyneema Composite Hybrid FabricTesting the HMG Unbound 40L Backpack and the Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric
Testing the HMG Dyneema Composite Hybrid Materials

Extremely Cloth

Extremely cloth is actually the identical sort of cloth as Dyneema Composite Cloth, only a barely completely different materials and a distinct model. Like Dyneema is tremendous robust however far more abrasion resistant. Add to that it’s almost inconceivable to tear and is very UV resistant. In the meanwhile, it is without doubt one of the greatest ultralight pack materials.

Testing the Zpacks Ultra Backpack MaterialTesting the Zpacks Ultra Backpack Material
Testing the Zpacks Extremely Materials

Robic Nylon

Mild, robust, and fairly priced is an efficient solution to describe Robic cloth. It’s not as gentle or waterproof as Dyneema however considerably cheaper. All packs made with this cloth are extra economical and really abrasion resistant.


Shoulder Straps and Hip Belts

The standard, weight, options, and luxury of each the Shoulder Straps and Hip belt are tremendous vital. They need to work collectively to distribute the burden and cargo in such a method as to stop stress on the physique. Thus making for a much less exhausted hiker on the finish of the day.

Osprey ExosOsprey Exos
The snug harness of the Osprey Exos Professional lets you carry numerous water within the outsized facet pockets. That may be a full 4L water bladder within the facet pockets and a full 2L hydration bladder!

Waterproof Backpacks

All of the packs on this evaluation have some type of water resistance however none are fully waterproof. Whereas the Extremely and Dyneema materials are waterproof, and in some instances seam sealed, they won’t be 100% waterproof. Due to this fact, beware if utilizing any of the ultralight backpacks for Packrafting or every other state of affairs that requires them for use like a dry bag.

Throughout testing, I discovered that the Extremely Materials and Dyneema had been each nice backpack materials, and each didn’t let any water into my pack. Having mentioned that, I’d advocate a light-weight pack liner or not less than having your sleeping bag and garments in some type of waterproof materials inside your pack.


Worth

If you’re out there for ultralight packs then the value might be not as vital as the burden, consolation, and high quality. An ultralight pack will set you again anyplace from $150 to $400, with the cheaper choices not really easy to search out. In case you have come this far within the backpack evaluation course of then spend just a little extra and get a top-tier ultralight pack.

3 well used backpacks on the CDT3 well used backpacks on the CDT
3 Properly used ultralight packs had been totally loaded and about to go out on the final part of the Continental Divide Path

Conclusion

Listed here are the Finest Ultralight Backpacks for 2024:


Ceaselessly Requested Questions

How A lot Does A Backpack For Climbing Value?

The very best ultralight backpacking pack is a giant funding. In some ways, you get what you pay for. High quality prices cash however many a hiker has been upset by corporations that change some huge cash for a backpack solely to search out that it’s worn out after a few months of use.
Although a few of the backpacks listed are slightly costly, they’re thought of good worth for cash.

Which firm has the Finest Backpack Guarantee?

Earlier than buying any of those backpacks you’ll want to test the guarantee and return coverage. Many hikers have been upset through the years when merchandise don’t dwell as much as expectations.  
Osprey has probably the greatest warranties within the enterprise. I’ve had my pack repaired and changed because of holes within the facet pockets, freed from cost.
It might have been thought of honest put on and tear or it might have been thought of a weak level within the design, however they stand by their merchandise. Not all corporations are so forgiving.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear can be reported to have nice after-sales service.

What Is The Finest Ultralight Waterproof Climbing Backpack?

Most fashionable backpacks are light-weight and robust however not all are waterproof. Lining the within of the backpack with a big trash compacter bag is the most affordable methodology to waterproof the contents. The Finest Ultralight Waterproof Backpack is the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 2400.

What’s the greatest materials for a Backpack?

The supplies used these days are a lot lighter than in years previous with little compromise on power and sturdiness. The load of light-weight mountaineering backpacks has decreased considerably because the days of 6lb / 2.5kg backpacks that had been regular 20 years in the past.
Light-weight Dyneema (Cuban Fibre) has led the way in which in making fashionable backpacks a lot lighter however not all producers use this materials. Different supplies akin to Xpac and Cordura are additionally used.

What’s the greatest Capability for a Light-weight Backpack?

40-60 liters is sufficient capability for 90% of hikers which can be dedicated to mountaineering with a lighter backpack. For the hiker that’s shifting from light-weight to ultra-light, a 40-liter pack or smaller can be sufficient.
This isn’t really useful for most individuals till the extent of mountaineering expertise and talent matches the dedication to go ultralight.

How Sturdiness are Ultralight Backpacks?

Essentially the most snug backpack in all probability has a lot padding that it weighs an excessive amount of. The very best ultralight backpacking pack won’t be snug except you trim the burden of all of your different bits of mountaineering gear to extremely gentle.
Most ultralight waterproof backpack is probably going made from a cloth akin to Dyneema (Cuban Fibre) and takes just a little extra care to stop holes and tears (which may be simply fastened with tape).
All of the packs listed are in a position to stand up to a number of long-distance hikes with minimal put on and tear.

What are one of the best backpacking manufacturers for backpacks?

Osprey, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, ZPacks, Gossamer Gear, and ULA are all one of the best high-quality light-weight backpacking manufacturers for backpacks

BikeHikeSafari Gear Evaluation Course of

The writer, Brad McCartney from BikeHikeSafari is a small impartial adventurer and out of doors gear tester who owns and runs BikeHikeSafari.com.

BikeHikeSafari isn’t half of a giant weblog community and is proudly impartial. All critiques on this website are impartial and trustworthy gear critiques of out of doors merchandise by the writer.

The writer, Brad McCartney is a really skilled triple crown thru-hiker, adventurer, and bike tourer having spent 1000s of nights sleeping in a tent and sleeping bag (Learn extra). He was a supervisor of an outside retail retailer and may be very skilled in what’s vital when utilizing and testing gear for critiques like this.

BikeHikeSafari won’t ever obtain any cash for critiques and they don’t settle for sponsored critiques on this web site. All of the feedback in regards to the gear critiques are from the writer based mostly on his years of expertise. Hope this impartial evaluation was useful for you.

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