Best Ultralight Backpacks for Thru Hiking and Backpacking 2025

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This is a gear review of The Best Ultralight Backpacks for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2025.

Ultralight backpacks have revolutionized long-distance hiking, making it possible to travel farther and faster with less strain. Gone are the days of hauling a 6 lb / 2.5 kg backpack. Current ultralight designs blend comfort, durability, and smart features at a fraction of the weight.

After thousands of miles on trails around the world, I’ve tested and compared the top models in the 35-60 liter range for 2025 to help you find the best fit for your next multi-day backpacking trip or thru-hike.

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How We Tested

All the Backpacks in this review have been extensively evaluated and researched by the expert author, who has many years of experience in Thru-Hiking, Backpacking, and Hiking. Some of the Backpacks were purchased by the author, and some were supplied by the manufacturer. They have been rigorously tested by the author in all kinds of weather on thru-hiking and backpacking trips, including the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and shorter local trips. The research, testing, and experience of the author have combined to come up with the best ultralight backpacks for 2025. Read the Review Policy for further details.

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Best Lightweight Backpacks for Backpacking 2025

The Best Lightweight Backpacks for Backpacking in 2025 are:

• Best Ultralight Backpack Overall – Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra
• Best Ultralight Backpack Runner Up – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L
• Most Comfortable Lightweight Backpack – Osprey Exos Pro
• Best Lightweight Backpack – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest
• Best Large Capacity Backpack – Gossamer Gear Mariposa
• Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider
• Osprey Exos
• Gossamer Gear Kumo
• ULA Circuit – 68 liters
• ULA CDT – 54 liters
• Mountain Laurel Designs Burn
• Pa’lante V2 – 40 Liters
• Zpacks Arc Blast

After more than 18 months of long-term testing, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra remains my top pick for ultralight thru-hiking and backpacking.

The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra is a favorite among thru-hikers for good reason. Weighing just 1 lb. 5.4 oz for the 50L version, it uses Ultra 100X fabric that’s lighter and more abrasion-resistant than classic Dyneema. This pack is seam-sealed and waterproof, so my gear stayed dry even after testing this backpack in the rain. The roll-top closure keeps things simple and lets you adjust the volume as needed for big or small loads.

The carbon fiber frame and tensioned mesh back panel assist with ventilation and help to reduce sweat during hot climbs, which is better and lighter than the HMG Unbound and Southwest. I find it comfortable for loads up to about 30 lbs / 13 kg, with the frame transferring weight well to the hips. Beyond 40 lbs / 18 kgs, you’ll start to notice some flex in the carbon fiber frame, and the comfort drops off a bit. The Gossamer Gear Mariposa and Osprey Exos and Exos Pro are more comfortable with heavy loads, but they are heavier and less weatherproof. The adjustable torso length helps dial in the fit for different body types.

The main compartment is large and waterproof with visible seam sealing to prevent water ingress. It will fit a bear canister when hiking in bear country, and the larger 70L version will fit the canister horizontally to ensure plenty of room for other gear. It has two deep side pockets that are perfect for water bottles and tent poles. I was able to fit 3L water bottles in the side pockets at a squeeze, but they do fit 2 x 2L bottles in each pocket. The generous stretch mesh rear pocket is perfect for airing out wet rain jackets or hiking socks, and for storing items you want quick access to.

Out of the box, it’s minimalist, but Zpacks offers add-ons like the hip belt and shoulder strap pockets if you want more organization. The modular setup is great for hikers who like to customize, though it does add to the price. Durability is impressive for an ultralight pack, with the Ultra fabric shrugging off abrasion, though the mesh does require some care.

Overall, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra stands out as the best ultralight backpack I’ve tested. If you’re an ultralight backpacker or thru-hiker looking for a customizable, weatherproof, and truly lightweight pack, this one is hard to beat in 2025.

For more than 18 months, I have been using and testing the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L on multiple local trails in everything from extreme heat to heavy rain. I can see why this pack has quickly become a favorite in the ultralight backpacking community.

Weighing in at just 1 lb. 14.1 oz, the Unbound 40L uses Dyneema Composite Hybrid fabric, which is both waterproof and impressively durable for its weight. The 40L main pack is seam-sealed throughout, and I’ve found it keeps gear dry even after extended hikes in heavy rain. The roll-top closure is simple, reliable, and allows you to adjust the pack’s volume for different trip lengths or resupplies.

What sets the Unbound apart are its 9L of external storage options. The well-designed side pockets are generously sized and angled for easy access, making it simple to grab water bottles or other items on the move.

Another standout feature is the waterproof zippers on the hip belt pockets, a small detail that makes a big difference in wet conditions.

The rear mesh pocket is large and perfect for stashing wet rain jackets or gear you want to keep handy. While some hikers have reported durability issues with the mesh, I haven’t seen this in my long-term testing. In fact, it’s held up better than expected.

Ventilation is ok thanks to the padded back panel, though it’s not quite as airy as the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra or Osprey Exos and Exos Pro. The frame and hip belt do a good job of transferring weight to the hips, and the pack remains comfortable for loads up to about 25–30 lbs. Beyond that, the lack of load lifters becomes noticeable, and the comfort drops off. For heavy loads, the Osprey Exos and Exos Pro, and the Gossamer Gear Mariposa are better options.

This smaller-sized 40L pack will not be for everyone. But once you have a light and compact sleep system, have removed all your unneeded luxury items, and want to set off with minimal stress on your body, then this is for you. If you want a little more storage HMG recently introduced Unbound 55L which is a 68L backpack if you include the large external storage pockets.

Overall, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L is a top choice for ultralight hikers who want simplicity, durability, and excellent weather protection without unnecessary extras. If you’ve trimmed your kit down and are ready for a streamlined, reliable pack, this one is hard to beat.

For almost 2 years, I’ve been using and testing the Osprey Exos Pro 55L on a range of trails in all kinds of weather, from hot summer days to drizzly rainy days. The Exos Pro has quickly become a favorite among hikers who want to lighten their load without giving up comfort or essential features. Weighing in at 2 lb. 1.2 oz (S/M), it’s not the lightest pack on the market, but it offers a great compromise between weight, comfort, and capacity.

I’ve used the regular older Exos for more than 10000 miles / 16000 km of hiking and backpacking around the world, and the newer Osprey Exos Pro is everything that the old model was but lighter weight and with a couple of handy upgrades.

There is a new silicon section on the back of the hipbelt, which keeps the pack locked in place better than before. And in keeping with the recently upgraded Exos, the Pro version continues to use hip belt pockets. They are big enough for most large smartphones, snacks, and more.

The Osprey Exos Pro is one of the few lightweight backpacks that still offer a hydration sleeve for your hydration bladder, which I like. The side pockets are the best I’ve used. They are big enough for two 4L water bladders and much easier to access than on other packs, including the HMG Unbound 40L. While some hikers have noted issues with the durability of the mesh, I have yet to suffer any issues with the Pro model of the Exos.

The outer fabric is lighter than previous models and made from recycled materials. You will still need a waterproof backpack cover or internal pack liner to keep things dry when the weather turns nasty, as the pack is only water resistant. There is a removable top lid on this backpack. During testing, I removed the top lid and found that the backpack works well by just using the small lid flap to keep the backpack closed and dry.

The frame, harness, and hip belt do an outstanding job of transferring weight to the hips, and the adjustable torso length means you can dial in the fit for your body type. The ventilated frame is better than any other backpack in this review. It does a great job of allowing air to flow around your back. The adjustable shoulder straps, load lifters, and comfortable harness all combine to make this a super comfortable backpack. I’ve carried loads of 55 lbs / 25 kg with this pack, which is significantly more than I would recommend. I found it supportive and stable, with no major pressure points or sagging. Good to know if you find yourself needing to carry 8L of water in a desert section of the trail. Compared to true ultralight packs like the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra or Hyperlite Unbound, the Exos Pro is noticeably more comfortable when carrying both light and heavier loads.

Overall, the Exos Pro is ideal for hikers transitioning from traditional packs or anyone who values comfort and ventilation over shaving every last ounce.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest backpacks are made out of super lightweight Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric backpacks. This was formerly known as Cuban Fiber. They come in a choice of 40 Liter, 55 liters, and a very large 70 liter, with the 55L being more popular.

The HMG Southwest has great external pockets both at the rear and side of the pack. They are perfect for storing gear such as wet rain gear, snacks, first aid supplies, water bottles, umbrellas, and so much more. The front pocket and side external pockets make great water bottle pockets. The carrying capacity in the main compartment is quite large.

The Southwest is waterproof in all but the very worst of weather. In many situations, you will not need to use any waterproof bags inside, just don’t take the pack swimming or Packrafting.

It uses two aluminum stays and a 1/4-inch foam backing on the back panel, which is very comfortable but lacks ventilation on hot days. The ultralight backpack has a comfortable back panel and shoulder straps.

Against newer packs like the HMG Unbound or Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra, the Southwest is less ventilated but often more durable and weather-resistant. For hikers who value simplicity, weatherproofing, and durability over maximum comfort or customization, the proven design of the HMG Southwest is still hard to beat.

This pack is best suited for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who want a reliable design that can withstand serious abuse. Beginners or those who want plush padding, extra pockets, or maximum ventilation might be happier with a different model.

Overall, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest remains a top choice for hikers who want a lightweight, durable, and weatherproof pack that just works, even if it means giving up a few creature comforts.

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa is one of the most popular lightweight backpacks on the market in 2025. Maybe Osprey is the only other pack you will see on thru-hiking trails more than this Gossamer Gear Backpack.

Weighing in at 2 lb. 2.2 oz, the Mariposa is a bit heavier than some ultralight options, but it makes up for it with thoughtful design and durability. Its 60-liter capacity is generous, making it a great choice for longer trips or for hikers who want a little extra space for food, water, or bulky gear.

When I tried the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, I found it wasn’t quite as comfortable as the Osprey Exos. The Mariposa has some of the best external pockets of any of the backpacks in this review. You will be able to find a space for everything. The hip belt pockets are roomy enough for snacks, a phone, or other essentials you want close at hand.

Made with quality Robic Fabric and one of the only packs in this review that will allow you to fit a bear canister horizontally inside the backpack. Add to that the quality load-carrying capacity of this backpack, and it all combines to make it one of the best. The internal frame and removable foam back panel help distribute weight well, and the shoulder straps and hip belt are padded and supportive for typical thru-hiking loads. However, for heavier loads or if you want maximum ventilation, packs like the Osprey Exos Pro or ULA Circuit may be more comfortable, especially in hot weather.

This pack is best suited for experienced backpackers and thru-hikers who want a well-organized, comfortable, and durable pack for longer trips. Beginners will also appreciate this versatile backpack, but those who want the absolute lightest or most weatherproof option might prefer alternatives like the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra or HMG Southwest. If you value smart storage, solid comfort, and a proven track record on long trails, the Mariposa is a top contender.

Overall, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa remains a favorite for good reason. It’s a versatile and proven design that thoughtfully excels at keeping your gear organized and accessible, even if it’s not the absolute lightest or most modular pack in the ultralight world.

It is a hard choice when it comes to which is the best Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG) backpack. They are all made out of super lightweight Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric, and all are great backpacks. I prefer the Southwest over the Windrider due to the rear fabric pocket, compared to the mesh pocket on the Windrider. However, if you are hiking in areas where you would prefer an open mesh pocket to air out wet gear, then the HMG Windrider is a better option.

The HMG Windrider comes in 40L, 55L, and 70L versions, with the 55-liter being the most popular. If you are committing to ultralight backpacking, the rest of your gear is lightweight and compact, then the 40L is a good option.

While the new Unbound uses only one backstay, the Windrider uses two aluminum stays and a 1/4-inch foam backing on the back panels. This makes for a comfortable back panel, but like many other packs, it can get sweaty in hot weather. Add to that the comfortable shoulder harness, and this is a comfortable backpack.

What sets the Windrider apart are its large mesh external pockets. The mesh is perfect for airing out wet rain jackets, socks, or tents, and makes it easy to see and grab what you need. The side mesh pockets are deep and securely hold water bottles or other gear, even on rough terrain. However, if you’re bushwhacking or scrambling, the mesh can snag or tear more easily than the solid pockets on the Southwest.

Overall, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider is a great thru-hiking backpack and perfect for wet trails where you might want to use the mesh pockets to dry your wet gear while backpacking.

I’ve used the Osprey Exos and Exos Pro on all of my Triple Crown hikes, logging thousands of miles on the PCT, CDT, and Appalachian Trail. The Exos line has always been among the most comfortable lightweight backpacks, and the newer Exos Pro is even lighter with some smart upgrades. Osprey’s return of the hip belt pockets on the 58L and 48L models is a welcome change. They’re roomy enough for snacks, a phone, and more.

The main compartment is spacious, easily fitting a hydration bladder and several days’ worth of food and water. The 58L version is perfect for a bear canister in the Sierra, while the 48L is great for more compact setups. The Exos tensioned mesh back panel provides excellent ventilation, and the adjustable torso and load lifters let you dial in a comfortable fit. Both the hip belt and shoulder straps are among the most comfortable I’ve tested, but with the introduction of the newer and lighter Osprey Exos Pro, this model has moved a bit further down the list.

Side pockets are deep and easy to access, and while the removable top lid adds storage, I usually leave it behind to save weight. The pack’s outer fabric is lighter and made from recycled materials, but you’ll still want a pack liner or rain cover for wet weather. The mesh pockets are practical, though they can snag if you’re bushwhacking and I did rip the mesh during my thru-hikes.

I’ve carried loads up to 40 lbs with the Exos Pro, but I’d recommend keeping it in the 20–35 lb range for best comfort and stability. Compared to true ultralight packs like the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra or Hyperlite Unbound, Southwest, and Windrider, the Exos is heavier but much more comfortable and ventilated for moderate to heavy loads. It’s less modular than ULA or Gossamer Gear packs, but it comes well-equipped for most hikers.

The shoulder straps are super comfortable. You can strap trekking poles to the pack without using the compression straps to hold them in. The Trekking pole straps are sometimes annoying, and I found that I rarely used them. I preferred to strap them to the side of the pack using compression straps.

If you’re transitioning from a heavier, traditional pack or value comfort and airflow over shaving every last ounce, the Osprey Exos is a good choice and more reasonably priced than the newer and lighter Osprey Exos Pro. For those who want the absolute lightest or most customizable pack, a cottage-brand option might be better. But for most backpackers, the Exos offers an excellent mix of comfort, durability, and user-friendly features and budget price that make it a standout on any long trail.

Overall, the Osprey Exos is a top pick for long-distance trails where comfort, ventilation, and value matter most. It is the perfect budget option backpack for the Pacific Crest Trail.

Gossamer Gear is a well-known pack manufacturer and a great choice for the minimalist hike.

Their larger packs such as the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 are popular but the lighter packs such as the Kumo are some of the better ultralight packs you can get right now.

Again, like a lot of the packs mentioned, do not load these packs with too much stuff. They are for ultra-light hikers only.

It comes with a roll-top closure and overall the main compartment is not that big. The huge water bottle pockets on the side and the large stretch fabric pocket on the back make the pack quite a bit bigger than it is.

At 36 liters they are small packs that are enough for thru-hiker and Bikepacker Onna ‘Onnamove’ Voellmer.

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

She reports that the shoulder straps on the pack are comfortable with loads up to 20lb (9kg) but it is often loaded up with 25lb (11kg) when leaving town after a big resupply.

Although it comes with a supplied back pad that sits on the back panel, she uses the sleeping mat and the Gossamer Gear Nightlight sleeping pad for extra padding. It is hard to find anything wrong with this pack, except it is only for ultra-light hikers who have committed to lightweight gear.

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

This lightweight rucksack is for backpackers who have already dialed in their gear and should only be used in conjunction with an Ultralight Backpacking Quilt and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

Some of the most popular backpacks on long-distance hiking trails are the ULA Circuit (68 liters) and the ULA CDT (54 liters).

They are strong, lightweight, and suitable for any long-distance thru-hike. While the ULA Circuit is the most popular pack I prefer the ULA CDT for its lighter weight and no-frills features. ULA include hip belts with a larger pocket which is now big enough for large-sized smartphones.

The Circuit is the heaviest of all the packs listed here and at 68 liters is quite large. These packs also come with optional shoulder pockets. They are certainly strong as they are made with the Robic 400 fabric.

Recently, ULA started making the same packs with the ultralight and super strong Ultra fabric. For many thru-hikers, this will be a better option and shave a couple of ounces off the weight of the pack.

Would you like to have your trail name or website embroidered onto your pack or have your personalized color? They can do that for a couple of dollars extra.

The Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) Burn is one of the lightest high-quality backpacks on the market. They recently upgraded the fabric to use the newish Ultra Fabric which I think is the best backpack fabric on the market at the moment.

The MLB Burn is an ultralight pack for the experienced thru-hiker only, that have already progressed from lightweight backpacking to ultralight backpacking.

They are only for hikers that have a very light base pack weight of around 10lb (4.5kg) or lighter. If you are an already experienced hiker and have already started the journey of moving from Lightweight to Ultralight then this might be a backpack for you.

Fellow Aussie Thru Hiker Cam ‘Swami’ Honan has used the MLD Burn for thousands of miles of hiking around the world. He reported that the pack is comfortable as long the pack weight being carried is light loads less than 22lb (10kg.) The MLD Burn is durable enough to last him at least 8000 miles (13000km).

It has small exterior pockets with two side pockets and a front mesh pocket. It also has a roll-top lid which thru-hikers love when they need to access the main compartment quickly.

This lightweight rucksack should only be used in conjunction with an Ultralight Backpacking Quilt and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

Cam ‘Swami’ Honan uses the MLD Burn and writes about all things hiking on his website https://www.thehikinglife.com/

The Pa’lante V2 is an ultralight pack for the hiker looking to lighten their gear weight. This pack is frameless with a roll-top closure so only suitable for those who have a low base weight.

At 17.6 oz / 499 grams, it is a worthy ultra-light choice to consider.

Experienced thru-hiker Micheal ‘Grizzly’ Ivey who has a base weight of around 8-9lb (4kg) uses this pack. As his base weight is so low he does not use the hip belt. It should be mentioned that hip belts are optional on this pack. The whole weight of the rucksack is on the shoulder straps.

Grizzly hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with me in 2015 and again in 2019. He also hiked the Continental Divide Trail, Colorado Trail twice, and Superior Trail.

He reported that the Pa’lante V2 is the best ultralight backpack and the perfect size for him as he is an ultralight hiker. It is comfortable as long as the contents of the pack weight are kept below 25lb (11kg).

The pack is not waterproof and he uses a pack liner. He likes the pack so much that he used it on his 2019 thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Micheal ‘Grizzly’ Ivey uses the Pa’lante V2, you can follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michael_j_ivey/

This lightweight rucksack should only be used in conjunction with an Ultralight Backpacking Quilts and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

The Zpacks Arc Blast was one of the most loved ultralight thru-hiking backpacks on the market. Recently it was discontinued in favor of the backpack that is this years editors choice of best backpack, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra.

It is made with lightweight Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric which is not only very light but waterproof. To assist with water resistance the pack features a roll-top closure. I like roll-top closures because if you need to carry a big load or a small load you can adjust the closure perfectly.

Two very handy and functional side pockets are perfect for water bottles and tent poles. The rear mesh pocket is a generous size and perfect for airing out wet rain jackets or socks.

The frame is also lightweight and adds to the comfort of the pack. It is also designed to fit a bear canister when hiking in bear country and there is a hydration port if you choose to hike with a water hydration bladder.

Overall, this was one the best ultralight backpacks for thru-hiking or backpacking when you want the highest quality ultralight backpack. Check below if there are still any in stock at a discounted price.

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Other Packs to consider

Other Great Packs:

• Mountain Laurel Designs Prophet: Like the MLD Burn in the review above, the Prophet is a super lightweight backpack best suited to experienced ultralight backpackers.
• Ultimate Designs Fastpack 40: The Ultimate Designs backpack is a cross between a trail running vest and a backpack. This pack has not been tested yet and may be added to the review in the future.
• Six Moon Designs Swift X: The Six Moons Designs Swift X is a quality backpack that I am yet to review.
• Granite Gear: They also make some great backpacking backpacks but most of them are not ultralight. Granite Gear packs are comfortable and better at carrying heavier loads.
• Durston Kakwa 55L: This pack ticks a lot of boxes for someone looking for a highly-rated ultralight pack. I hope to test this pack soon.

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Ultralight Backpack Comparison Table

Brand	Weight	Material	Capacity
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra	1 lb. 5.4 oz	Ultra 100X	40L, 50L, 60L, 70L
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound	1 lb. 14.1 oz	Dyneema Composite Hybrid	40L, 55L
Osprey Exos Pro	2 lb. 1.2 oz	100 Denier Nylon Ripstop	55L
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest	1 lb. 14 oz	Dyneema Composite Hybrid	40L, 55L, 70L
Gossamer Gear Mariposa	2 lb. 2.2 oz	Robic Nylon	60L
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider	1 lb. 14 oz	Dyneema Composite Hybrid	40L, 55L, 70L
Osprey Exos	2 lb. 12 oz	100 Denier Nylon Ripstop	48L, 58L
Gossamer Gear Kumo	1 lb. 2 oz	Robic Nylon	36L
ULA Circuit	2 lb. 6.5 oz	Robic Nylon, or Ultra 200X	68L
ULA CDT	1 lb. 11.1 oz	Robic Nylon, or Ultra 200X	54L
Mountain Laurel Designs Burn	1 lb	Ultra 100X	38L
Pa’lante V2	1 lb. 1.6 oz	Ultra 200	40L
Zpacks Arc Blast	1 lb. 3.9 oz	Dyneema Composite Hybrid	55L

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Best Overall Lightweight Backpack

The best lightweight backpack is the Osprey Exos Pro which is comfortable and able to carry heavier loads if needed.

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear packs are the best waterproof backpacks on the market right now. They are the best compromise between lightweight, strong materials, and they can carry heavy loads if needed. As they are made from Cuban Fibre which is now known as Dyneema, they are the most waterproof of all the packs. They would be the perfect lightweight backpack for thru-hiking and backpacking.

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Best Ultralight Backpack

The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra is the best ultralight backpack for 2025. It just beat out the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L Backpack.

These backpacks are not only ultralight but high quality, waterproof, and will be very popular on all the thru-hiking trails in the world this year. If you want an ultralight backpack, these are for you.

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Why use an Ultra Light Backpack

Making the move from a traditional backpacking setup to a light backpacking setup, then moving even further to ultralight backpacks is not for everyone. Especially when it comes to ultralight backpacks.

Having a base weight of 13lb / 6kg or lower will make hiking so much easier. There will not only be less stress on the body but less chance of injury and much less fatigue at the end of a day backpacking. With time and experience, you can lighten your baseweight to below 10 lb / 4.5 kg quite easily.

All of the ultralight backpacks listed are recommended as a major step in lightening the base weight of your hiking gear.

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A Word of Warning about Ultralight Backpacks

Do not consider buying any of the MLD, Gossamer Gear, or Pa’lante packs unless you are committed to having a base weight below 11lb / 5kg.

If you want to use an ultralight backpack like the backpacks in this review, then you should only use it in conjunction with an Ultralight Backpacking Quilts or Ultralight Sleeping Bag and an Ultralight Backpacking Tent.

Carrying loads heavier than 22-25lb (10-12kg) with any MLD, Gossamer Gear or Pa’lante packs will not be the most comfortable ultralight backpack. Some do not come with a hip belt or the hip belt is optional. Carrying heavy loads with these backpacks is not an option. You have been warned!

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Backpack Frame vs Frameless Packs

Which backpack is best for you, one with a frame or frameless packs?

Frameless Backpacks

Frameless Backpacks are lighter and simple. Backpacks with frames are arguably the most comfortable ultralight packs.

Frameless backpacks are for the hiker looking to move to ultralight backpacking who will be carrying much less weight.

A frameless pack should only be used if the loads are not too heavy and the gear is packed thoughtfully. Then they will be comfortable.

Some ultralight backpacks save even more weight by not using the hip belts.

For example, don’t pack your stove in your backpack so it pushes a sharp object onto your back.

Frame Backpack

Backpacks with a frame tend to be more comfortable but slightly heavier than frameless backpacks. They are also much better at carrying a heavier load. If you are seeking carrying comfort and have a heavier load then these will ultimately be better for you.

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Materials

With names such as Dyneema Composite Fabric, Ultra, Robic, and nylons, which ones are best for backpacks and why? There are many other fabrics but these ones are the better ultralight fabrics that are tough enough for backpacks.

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Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric Backpacks

Dyneema Composite Hybrid Fabric (DCH) is the next evolution of the DCF fabric (Cuban Fiber). DCH backpacks are lightweight and waterproof like the original DCF but much more abrasion resistant. DCH material is quite a bit more expensive than other materials and seems to be suffering from supply chain issues.

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Ultra Fabric

Ultra fabric is essentially the same type of fabric as Dyneema Composite Fabric, just a slightly different material and a different brand. Dyneema is super strong but much more abrasion-resistant. Add to that it is nearly impossible to tear and is highly UV resistant. At the moment, it is one of the best ultralight pack fabrics.

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Robic Nylon

Light, strong, and reasonably priced is a good way to describe Robic fabric. It is not as light or waterproof as Dyneema but significantly cheaper. All packs made with this fabric are more economical and very abrasion-resistant.

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Shoulder Straps and Hip Belts

The quality, weight, features, and comfort of both the Shoulder Straps and Hip belt are super important. They must work together to distribute the weight and load in such a way as to prevent stress on the body. Thus making for a less exhausted hiker at the end of the day.

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Waterproof Backpacks

All the packs in this review have some form of water resistance but none are completely waterproof. While the Ultra and Dyneema fabrics are waterproof, and in some cases seam sealed, they will not be 100% waterproof. Therefore, beware if using any of the ultralight backpacks for Packrafting or any other situation that requires them to be used like a dry bag.

During testing, I found that the Ultra Material and Dyneema were both great backpack fabrics, and both did not let any water into my pack. Having said that, I would recommend a lightweight pack liner or at least having your sleeping bag and clothes in some form of waterproof material inside your pack.

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How to Pack an Ultralight Backpack

Packing an ultralight backpack is all about balance, comfort, ease of accessibility, and protecting your gear from the elements.

1. Start With a Liner:
A lightweight pack liner or a trash compactor bag inside your main compartment can be used to keep things dry. This keeps your sleeping bag, clothes, and other essentials dry in wet weather.

2. Pack Heavy Items Close to Your Back:
Place your heaviest items, usually your food bag and tent, vertically and as close to your back as possible. This helps keep your center of gravity stable and makes the pack feel lighter. But keep in mind that sharp items may stick into your back so try to minimize this.

3. Sleeping Bag and Clothing:
Stuff your ultralight sleeping bag or backpacking quilt at the very bottom of your liner. Next, add your clothing and any soft items you won’t need during the day. These act as a cushion for your back and help fill out the pack’s shape.

4. Middle Layer – Shelter and Food:
Pack your tent, food bag, and cook kit in the middle of the pack, close to your back. Use your sleeping pad (if it’s a foam pad) as a “frame” against the back panel if your pack is frameless or has minimal structure.

5. Top Layer – Quick Access Items:
Near the top, place items you’ll want during the day: rain gear, warm layers, a first aid kit, or snacks. This way, you don’t have to dig through your whole pack every time you need something.

6. Use External Pockets Wisely:
Store water bottles, a filter, and wet gear (like a rain jacket or tent fly) in the side or rear mesh pockets. Keep your phone, sunscreen, and snacks in hip belt or shoulder strap pockets for easy access on the go.

7. Distribute Weight Evenly:
Avoid overloading one side or the top of your pack. A well-balanced load will reduce shoulder fatigue and keep your pack from swaying.

8. Compress and Cinch:
Roll down the top of your pack tightly and use compression straps to stabilize the load. A compact, stable pack is more comfortable and easier to carry over long distances.

Tips:

• Avoid carrying unnecessary extras—every ounce counts.
• Practice packing at home to find the most efficient setup for your gear.
• Adjust your packing strategy based on the season, trip length, and terrain.

With a little planning and practice, you’ll find that a well-packed ultralight backpack feels lighter, more stable, and more enjoyable to carry, no matter how many miles you plan to hike.

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Sustainability in Ultralight Backpacks

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for both backpackers and brands. Many ultralight backpack companies now use recycled materials, such as Osprey’s recycled nylon or PFAS-free water-repellent coatings, to reduce environmental impact. When shopping, look for terms like “recycled,” “bluesign-approved,” or “PFAS-free,” which signal more eco-friendly production.

Durability is another key factor. Packs made from robust Dyneema, Ultra, or high-denier Robic nylon are built to last, meaning fewer replacements and less waste in the long run. Choosing a long-lasting pack is one of the most sustainable moves you can make.

Repairability also matters. Brands like Osprey offer lifetime warranties and repair services, while many cottage companies sell replacement parts or offer repairs. Opting for a pack that can be fixed rather than replaced extends its useful life and keeps gear out of landfills.

Small-batch and local manufacturing, common among cottage ultralight brands, can reduce the carbon footprint associated with mass production and long-distance shipping. Supporting these brands often means supporting higher labor and environmental standards as well.

Finally, the most sustainable approach is to buy only what you need and use your gear for as long as possible. Repair when you can, and avoid unnecessary upgrades.

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Price

If you are in the market for ultralight packs, then the price is probably not as important as the weight, comfort, and quality. An ultralight pack will set you back anywhere from $150 to $400, with the cheaper options not so easy to find. If you have come this far in the backpack review process then spend a little more and get a top-tier ultralight pack.

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Conclusion

Here are the Best Ultralight Backpacks for 2025:

• Best Ultralight Backpack Overall – Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra
• Best Ultralight Backpack Runner Up – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L
• Most Comfortable Lightweight Backpack – Osprey Exos Pro
• Best Lightweight Backpack – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest
• Best Large Capacity Backpack – Gossamer Gear Mariposa
• Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider
• Osprey Exos
• Gossamer Gear Kumo
• ULA Circuit – 68 liters
• ULA CDT – 54 liters
• Mountain Laurel Designs Burn
• Pa’lante V2 – 40 Liters
• Zpacks Arc Blast

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Frequently Asked Questions

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