Best Ultralight Backpacks

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Best Ultralight Backpacks

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Best Ultralight Backpacks
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How to Choose the Best Ultralight Backpack

Ultralight backpacks have so many great uses. Use one to pack your gear for a weekend hiking in the woods or to take extra clothes with you to the gym. They make great travel bags, too. If you’ve been thinking about getting one, you’re in luck. We researched some of the best options out there to put together our ultralight backpack reviews. Before we get into our top picks, let’s take a look at some of the key things to consider when shopping.

Best Ultralight Backpacks

Waterproof: Some of these bags are truly waterproof which is perfect if you want something to use outdoors. A lot of these packs are actually water resistant which doesn’t provide the same amount of protection but is good for most situations.

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Size: These measurements are the dimensions of the bag when open, unfolded, and unfilled. A lot of these packs actually fold up small enough to fit inside a small pouch but that doesn’t give you a lot of information about the actual size of the bag.

How to Choose the Best Ultralight Backpack

Color Options: A lot of these packs are only available in basic colors like black, gray, and navy blue. That said, there are a lot of great options if you’re looking for something bright and colorful, too.

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Frame: Of our top picks, 2 of them have frames. Frames are really important when it comes to extended outdoor travel when you’re carrying everything you need in your pack. They provide more structure and make it much easier to find what you need.

Best Ultralight Backpacks

Weight: This is the weight of the pack with nothing in it and, believe it or not, some of them are insanely lightweight. The heaviest pack we included weighs a little under 5 pounds while the lightest is only 7.5 ounces.

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Capacity: Capacity is measured in liters. Basically, this number tells you how many 1-liter bottles of water should fit inside the pack. It’s not an exact measurement but it doesn’t give you some idea of what you’ll be able to carry.

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Now that you know what to look for, let’s move into our reviews. If you’re in a hurry, start right at the beginning with our top and budget picks. That’s the best way to get some idea of the range that’s available though you should stick around if you have time. All of these designs are unique and you never know which one will work out for you. So, what is the best ultralight backpack? Let’s find out!

TETON SPORTS Ultralight Backpack

TETON SPORTS Ultralight Backpack
Our top pick is the TETON SPORTS Ultralight Backpack. This large capacity, lightweight pack lets you take along everything you need for an extended outdoor adventure. The multi-position torso adjustment can be customized to fit a range of body size and the durable lumbar pad and molded channels help provide maximum airflow and comfort. That’s not all, there’s also a thickly padded waist belt with independent top and bottom adjustments for even more customization. This pack includes a large sleeping bag compartment, multi-directional compression straps, gear ties, and a lot of pockets to make sure there’s a spot for everything. The internal frame is super light and provides the structure you need when you’re out on the trail. It’s available in 2 different colors, gray/maroon, and gray/navy.
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Outlander Hiking Backpack

Outlander Hiking Backpack
Up next is our pick for the best cheap ultralight backpack, the Outlander Hiking Backpack. This is a really durable pack made of rip and water-resistant nylon fabric. All stress points have been reinforced with bar tacking for added support. What’s really cool about this pack is that it actually fold into a zippered inner pocket and can fit just about anywhere. When you’re ready to use it, just unfold and you’re ready to go. There are multiple compartments including mesh side pockets for water bottles and umbrellas as well as a carabiner clip to attach something to the outside. There’s no extra weight to carry with this bag. it weighs only 8 ounces and can go with you anywhere. It comes in a few different sizes (20, 25, and 33L) and there are 16 different colors to choose from.
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Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Backpack

Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Backpack
The Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Backpack has everything you need for an outdoor adventure. It’s available in both 45 and 60L sizes. Both are really lightweight and really tough. The aluminum internal frame is capable of hauling a lot of gear without adding too much unnecessary weight. This waterproof pack is made of 600D polyester fabric and includes a rainfly for additional protection. There’s a removable hood that can be used as a convenient daypack and a full-length side zipper for easy access to your whole backpack. Adjustable torso suspension makes this a great choice for all sizes and high-stress YKK buckles help keep everything right where it needs to be. The black and gray design is perfect for men and women and the lifetime limited guarantee makes this a good contender for the best ultralight backpack.
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HIKPRO Packable Backpack

HIKPRO Packable Backpack
We love the minimalist, ultra-lightweight design of the HIKPRO Packable Backpack. It weighs only 7.5 ounces and actually folds up small enough to fit inside a plastic sandwich bag so you can easily pop it into your suitcase for easy travel. This 20L bag features three zippered compartments for organization and an outer pocket where you can put those things you need to get to in a hurry as well as side mesh pockets for water bottles or an umbrella. The water-resistant nylon fabric can protect your gear for you to an hour in the rain and has more threads per unit area so it’s tough and resistant to tears. Plus, there’s double fabric at the bottom for even more support. There are also 11 great colors to choose from.
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G4Free Travel Backpack

G4Free Travel Backpack
Another great option is the G4Free Travel Backpack. At 40 L, it’s large enough to carry what you need for an extended trip including a hammock, towels, and some food. Believe it or not, this pack folds down into a small pocket that you can pack in your suitcase without adding much weight for when your journeys take you far, far away. The high-quality material is water and tear resistant and has adjustable shoulder straps that fit most body types and a chest strap that helps keep everything from moving around too much when you’re on the go. There are a lot of pockets for organized packing, too, including a front spandex pouch, 2 sports bottle holders, and 2 large main pouches. This versatile pack is a great choice and extremely affordable.
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OUTLIFE Hiking Backpack

OUTLIFE Hiking Backpack
The OUTLIFE Hiking Backpack is made using durable high-quality nylon fabric that’s water resistant and has a double bottom layer for extra support. This lightweight pack features back ventilation for improved airflow and comfort, especially when you’re hiking on a hot summer day. There’s also an adjustable strap that fits most body types. One of the best things about this pack is how much room there is. It hold 60 L in all and has a lot of useful pockets for organized packing including a large main pocket for the essentials, a front pocket for things you need to access quickly, an inside protective pocket for valuables, a zipper waist pocket for small valuables like cash or jewelry, and a bottom pocket that’s the perfect size for an additional pair of shoes.
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Topnaca Naturehike Hiking Backpack

Topnaca Naturehike Hiking Backpack
If you’re looking for an ultralight waterproof backpack, you’re going to love the Topnaca Naturehike Hiking Backpack. It’s available in two different sizes, 18 and 25 L. Both are extremely lightweight with the larger pack weighing just about 6 ounces. It’s made with high-quality nylon that’s waterproof and tear resistant. That’s not all, the zipper is also designed to keep water out making sure that all of your belongings are protected. This pack can be folded and placed in a small pouch for travel. Adjustable straps provide the proper fit and there are several pockets to help you stay organized including a roomy main compartment, internal zippered pocket, and 2 mesh side pockets. Choose from 3 different colors: blue, black, and gray. One more thing, this backpack also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee as well as a 12-month warranty.
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MIER Foldable Backpack

MIER Foldable Backpack
If you’re looking for an ultralight backpack for the gym, check out the MIER Foldable Backpack. It’s made of highly durable nylon that’s rip and water resistant. This lightweight pack weight less than half a pound and folds up compactly to fit in a small sandwich-sized inner pouch. There are a few pockets to help organize your stuff including a large main compartment, interior zipper pocket, mesh side pockets, small exterior zipper pocket, and a deep front pocket with buckle closure. Wide, adjustable shoulder straps feature breathable mesh to help with air flow and were designed to relieve stress and prevent the pack from digging in, even with a heavy load. There’s also a padded handle at the top so you can quickly grab it to load into your car.
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CAMEL CROWN Packable Backpack

We’re calling this the best women's ultralight backpack but, the truth is, it’s really awesome and anyone will love it. The CAMEL CROWN Packable Backpack has an ultralight, roomy design that can hold all of your travel essentials. It has a large main pocket and 2 front pockets to keep your things organized while on the go. This pack folds into a small sandwich size bag that can easily be tucked into your suitcase if you’re taking a long trip. It’s made of water-resistant and tear resistant nylon and has reinforced bar tacking along pressure points to increase durability and longevity. The shoulder straps are breathable and cushioned for good airflow that keeps you cool during long trips and prevents any stress or discomfort. Plus, it comes in 5 great colors.
We’re calling this the best women's ultralight backpack but, the truth is, it’s really awesome and anyone will love it. The CAMEL CROWN Packable Backpack has an ultralight, roomy design that can hold all of your travel essentials. It has a large main pocket and 2 front pockets to keep your things organized while on the go. This pack folds into a small sandwich size bag that can easily be tucked into your suitcase if you’re taking a long trip. It’s made of water-resistant and tear resistant nylon and has reinforced bar tacking along pressure points to increase durability and longevity. The shoulder straps are breathable and cushioned for good airflow that keeps you cool during long trips and prevents any stress or discomfort. Plus, it comes in 5 great colors.
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SEEHONOR Lightweight Backpack

Last but not least in our reviews is the SEEHONOR Lightweight Backpack. This space-saving design holds 35 L but is so lightweight and compact that you can fold it up and tuck it into your suitcase when you’re going on long trips. It has multiple pockets, including a large main compartment, outer and back zipper pockets for quick access to the essentials, and mesh pockets for water bottles so you can stay hydrated while on the go. This pack is made of high-quality nylon fabric that’s waterproof and super durable.  The ergonomic design and comfortable adjustable straps keep you comfortable and an integrated whistle buckle and reflective straps help you stay safe. The monochromatic black design makes this a great pack for anyone and it’s even covered by a lifetime warranty.
Last but not least in our reviews is the SEEHONOR Lightweight Backpack. This space-saving design holds 35 L but is so lightweight and compact that you can fold it up and tuck it into your suitcase when you’re going on long trips. It has multiple pockets, including a large main compartment, outer and back zipper pockets for quick access to the essentials, and mesh pockets for water bottles so you can stay hydrated while on the go. This pack is made of high-quality nylon fabric that’s waterproof and super durable. The ergonomic design and comfortable adjustable straps keep you comfortable and an integrated whistle buckle and reflective straps help you stay safe. The monochromatic black design makes this a great pack for anyone and it’s even covered by a lifetime warranty.
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About the Author

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Jennifer Trimbee

Expert Researcher and Writer

Jennifer Trimbee, a lead researcher and writer at GeekWrapped, is an expert writer with many years of experience. Jennifer writes about technology, sports, outdoor, and gear products.

Learn more about Jennifer

Article last updated on:

September 29, 2019

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TOP PICK

TETON SPORTS Ultralight Backpack

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