Dreamstime
What To Look For
Your requirements for choosing a daypack will vary depending on your needs and your intended usage. A daypack should fit comfortably and hold everything you need for a 1-day hike. For the best fit, look for packs specifically designed to fit a woman's frame, which may feature contoured harnesses, a more compact footprint, or shoulder straps that are closer together than on men's or unisex packs. Try on several packs in the store and load them with 10 to 20 pounds to test their comfort when loaded. Also look for a pack that makes hydration easily accessible, whether in the form of a hands-free bladder or side bottle pockets that can be reached without removing the pack.
Common Pitfalls
The extensive options and features available can make shopping for a daypack overwhelming. Make sure you are aware of your individual requirements so that you don't buy more pack than you need. Daypacks with up to 1,000 cubic inches are sufficient for light hikes where only the essentials (such as water, snacks, and sunscreen) are required. If extra food and layers are necessary for longer hikes or three-season hiking, consider a pack with a capacity of 1,000 to 2,000 cubic inches. These will comfortably carry 15 to 20 pounds and often feature additional padding in the back or shoulder straps, as well as a waistbelt to keep the pack from shifting during activity. Avoid cheap or poorly constructed packs that won't hold up to the demands of hiking outdoors.
Where To Buy
The best place to buy a daypack is an outdoor retailer, such as REI or a small specialty gear store, where the staff can help you find a pack that meets your needs and fits properly. A large assortments of daypacks and product reviews can be found online at outdoor gear sites such as trails.com or backcountry.com.
Cost
In general, the greater the pack capacity and the more features, the higher the price. Packs up to 1,000 cubic inches can be found for around $50. Mid-sized packs cost anywhere from $60 to $150.
Comparison Shopping
Camelbak's women's-fit daypacks ($65 to $125) offer built-in hands-free hydration and contoured harnesses for a comfortable, stable fit. North Face offers several daypacks designed to fit a women's profile ($55 to $89) with side water bottle pockets and multiple compartments for easy organization. Osprey's Aura 35 women's pack (suggested retail price $159) features an interior sleeve for a hydration bladder as well as multiple loops and stretch side pockets for extra gear.
