Top 5 Lightweight Daypacks for Women (Trail-Tested & Eco-Friendly)

Choosing the right daypack can make or break your hike. Whether you're exploring alpine trails, city parks, or weekend campsites, a lightweight, durable, and affordable pack is key. Important elements we look for in packs include quality of materials, comfort, smart design, durability, and functionality (ie, integrated rain-covers). We've gathered five standout daypacks under $200 from trusted brands that blend comfort, function, and sustainable design.

Samantha Rivers

4/26/20253 min read

🎒 1. Mountainsmith Zerk 25L

Price: $199.95
Weight: 1 lb 11 oz
Best For: Ultralight hikers and summit baggers
Why We Dig It: This streamlined pack compresses into its own lid pocket, making it perfect for travel. The Robic HT nylon fabric offers a great balance between weight and durability.
Wait, there's more? This pack is so versatile it can be used on the trail, at the gym, on a bike or even toting your necessities to work or on a trip.

👉 Shop the Mountainsmith Zerk 25L Pack

🎒 2. ALPS Mountaineering Canyon 20L Daypack

Price: $89.99
Weight: 1 lb 6 oz
Best For: Day hikes and urban adventures
What Makes it Great: Designed with a women’s-specific fit, this pack offers a comfortable carry with padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel. Multiple compartments help keep gear organized.
In the Wild: This pack recently crushed it on our trek along the Mist Trail in Yosemite to Vernal and Nevada Falls!

👉 Shop the ALPS Mountaineering Canyon 20L Daypack

🎒 3. Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L

Price: $173.56
Weight: ~1 lb
Best For: Tech-savvy day hikers, city explorers, and digital nomads
What's the Appeal? Compact, stylish, and weather-resistant, this sling is designed with thoughtful organization for everyday carry. It expands from 6L to 9L, making it versatile enough for spontaneous adventures or structured travel.
¿Qué más? While we don't usually recommend sling bags, the Navigator Sling passed the test due to it's lightweight and slick design.

👉 Shop the Nomatic Navigator Sling

🎒 4. OutdoorMaster Sling Bag

Price: $49.99
Weight: 1 lb
Best For: Casual hikes and urban exploration
Why We Love It: This crossbody sling bag offers a compact design with multiple compartments, including a hidden anti-theft pocket and an external water bottle holder.
What gives? I thought you didn't like Sling Bags? Ok, so normally sling bags are not our thing, but after testing the OutdoorMaster at a recent jaunt around Bangkok, we have to admit that the versatility and ease of use has turned us into fans. (and we love the price and the color!)

👉 Shop the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag

🎒 5. GSI Outdoors Boulder Flask

Price: $22.95
Weight: 4.2 oz
Best For: Carrying your favorite beverage on the trail
Really? Ok, so technically not a daypack, this shatter-resistant flask is a great companion for day hikes, ski trips, early morning jaunts to watch the sunrise allowing you to enjoy a warm or cold drink wherever you go. There's been many occasion we've left the bourbon at home thinking, we don't need it... However, there are special times that call for celebratory sipping, and this flask makes those times possible!

👉 Shop the GSI Outdoors Boulder Flask

🧭 Final Thoughts

Selecting the right daypack enhances your outdoor experience by providing comfort, organization, and durability. Each of these options offers unique features to suit different hiking styles and preferences. Remember, the right gear can make all the difference between a comfortable, enjoyable hike and a grueling one. Whether it's a lightweight daypack or the perfect pair of trail shoes, small upgrades to your gear can lead to big improvements in your outdoor adventures. Stay tuned for our upcoming post on 'Essential Hiking Gear for Beginners'—it’s time to make those trail days even better!

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