Best Ultralight Backpacks for Thru Hiking and Backpacking 2026

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On long water carries in the desert and bear canister sections in the Sierra, a backpack that saves weight but carries badly will punish you by lunchtime. This guide is for thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers looking for the best ultralight backpacks for backpacking and long trails in 2026, with enough comfort for real food and water carries rather than just weekend base weights. The main trade-off is simple: the lighter the pack, the more disciplined you need to be with total pack weight, capacity, and durability.

I’ve used and tested lightweight packs across thousands of miles, including Triple Crown hikes on the PCT, CDT, and Appalachian Trail, and I’ve also tested newer models in heat, rain, and local conditions. My current top pick is the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra, with the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L as the best waterproof minimalist option. See the Quick Picks if you want the short version.

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Quick Picks: Best Ultralight Backpacks

Best overall: Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra – This is the lightest full-featured pick that still has a frame, waterproof Ultra fabric, good side pockets, and long-term BikeHikeSafari testing behind it. I’d choose it for experienced thru-hikers who want low weight without going fully frameless.

Best waterproof ultralight backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L – The Unbound 40L keeps the simple waterproof Dyneema setup of classic HMG packs but adds better external storage and more thru-hiker friendly pockets. It is best once your sleep system and shelter are already compact.

Most comfortable lightweight backpack: Osprey Exos Pro 55L – The Exos Pro carries better than most true ultralight packs when food and water weight climbs, and the ventilated frame is a real advantage in hot conditions. It is not waterproof, so use a liner or pack cover.

Best proven thru-hiking backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest – The Southwest is still a strong option for hikers who want a simple, durable, weather-resistant pack with solid external pockets. I prefer it over the Windrider where snagging mesh is a concern.

Best large capacity ultralight backpack: Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 – The Mariposa is not the lightest, but it remains comfortable with heavy loads and has excellent pocket organization and enough volume for longer food carries.

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How We Tested

The ultralight backpacks in this guide are researched and, where possible, field-tested by an experienced long-distance hiker and former outdoor store manager. Across thru-hikes, shoulder-season trips, desert water carries, bear canister sections, and backpacking expeditions, I judge ultralight backpacks on comfort per gram, load transfer, usable capacity, weather resistance, pocket access, durability, fit, and value for serious backpacking.

Some of the Backpacks were purchased by the author, and some were supplied by the manufacturer. For more on how we research and review gear, see the Review Policy for further details.

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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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After more than 2 years of long-term testing, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra remains my top pick for ultralight thru-hiking and backpacking. It weighs just 1 lb. 5.4 oz for the 50L version and uses Ultra 100X fabric, which gives it a strong weight, durability, and weather protection balance for long-distance hiking

The frame transfers weight well to the hips, and I find it comfortable up to about 30 lb / 13 kg. Beyond 40 lb / 18 kg, the carbon frame starts to flex and the comfort drops, so the Osprey Exos Pro, Osprey Exos, and Gossamer Gear Mariposa are better choices if you often carry heavy food or water loads.

In rain testing, my gear stayed dry, and the seam sealing is visible inside the pack. 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. 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.

The main trade-off is price and modularity. Hip belt and shoulder strap pockets cost extra, and the rear mesh still needs care, but this is still the pack to beat for experienced hikers who want a framed, waterproof, genuinely ultralight backpack

Best for: Best overall ultralight backpack for experienced thru-hikers

For more than 2 years I have been using and testing the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L on multiple local trails in everything from extreme heat to heavy rain. The main pack is seam-sealed, and I’ve found it keeps gear dry even after extended hikes in heavy rain.

The Unbound 40L is best for hikers who have already trimmed their sleep system, shelter, and spare clothing. The 40L capacity is not forgiving if you still carry bulky gear, but the side pockets, rear mesh pocket, and waterproof hip belt zippered pockets make better use of external storage than many older minimalist packs.

Comfort is best around 25 to 30 lb, and beyond that the lack of load lifters becomes noticeable. The mesh has held up better than expected in my long-term testing, but the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra has better ventilation and the Osprey packs handle heavier loads more comfortably.

Choose the Unbound 40L if your gear is already compact and you want a simple waterproof pack without unnecessary extras. If you want more room, the 55L version deserves a look.

Best for: Waterproof minimalist backpacking and dialed ultralight kits

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 Osprey Exos Pro 55L is the most comfortable lightweight backpack on the page for hikers who still need real load-carrying ability. The frame, harness, hip belt, adjustable torso, load lifters, and ventilated back panel work together better than most cottage ultralight packs when the load gets heavier.

During testing, I removed the top lid and found the pack worked well with the smaller lid flap. I’ve also carried 55 lb / 25 kg in this pack, which is much more than I recommend, but it stayed supportive and stable without major pressure points.

The side pockets are among the best I’ve used, with room for large water storage. The BearVault 500 fits in the main compartment which makes it useful for the JMT and PCT. The main drawback is weather protection, because this pack is only water resistant and needs a waterproof backpack cover or internal pack liner in sustained rain.

This is the pack for hikers who are moving lighter but still prioritize comfort, airflow, and mainstream fit adjustment. True gram counters will choose the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra, HMG Unbound, or MLD Burn instead.

Best for: Comfort, ventilation, and heavier carries.

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest remains one of the most proven ultralight thru-hiking packs because the design is simple, durable, and weather resistant. It uses Dyneema Composite Hybrid fabric and comes in 40L, 55L, and 70L sizes, with the 55L version being the most popular.

I prefer the Southwest over the Windrider for rougher hiking because the rear fabric pocket is less likely to snag than mesh. The solid external pockets are useful for water bottles, wet rain gear, snacks, and quick-access items without adding too much fuss.

The pack is comfortable thanks to two aluminum stays and a foam back panel, but it lacks ventilation in hot weather. Compared with newer packs like the HMG Unbound and Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra, the Southwest is less airy and less modern, but often feels tougher and more proven.

Choose the Southwest if you value a no-fuss, durable, weather-resistant pack that has already earned its place on long trails. If you want better airflow or more modular features, look at the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra, Osprey Exos Pro, or ULA options instead.

Best for: Proven, durable, weather-resistant thru-hiking.

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa is a high-value large capacity ultralight backpack with excellent organization. It is not as light or weatherproof as the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra or HMG packs, but the 60L capacity and pocket layout make it much easier to live out of on long food carries.

When I tried the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, I found it wasn’t quite as comfortable as the Osprey Exos. Even so, the padded shoulder straps, hip belt, internal frame, and removable foam back panel make it comfortable enough for typical thru-hiking loads.

The Mariposa is best for experienced backpackers and thru-hikers who want capacity, comfort, and smart storage more than the lowest possible weight. Use a pack liner in wet weather and choose a more waterproof pack if rain protection is the main priority.

Best for: Large capacity ultralight backpacking and long food carries.

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider is very close to the Southwest, but the big difference is the mesh pocket layout. I prefer the Southwest for durability because its rear fabric pocket is less snag-prone, but the Windrider is better if you want open mesh to air out wet gear.

The Windrider comes in 40L, 55L, and 70L versions, and the 55L version remains the sweet spot for most thru-hikers. The Dyneema Composite Hybrid fabric, roll-top closure, and simple back panel make it a proven long-distance hiking pack.

The shoulder harness is comfortable, but the foam back panel can get sweaty in hot conditions. The mesh pockets are excellent for wet rain jackets, socks, or tents, but they can snag or tear when bushwhacking or scrambling.

Best for: Wet trails where drying gear in mesh pockets matters.

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. That single sentence should stay close to the top of this review because it is stronger than most competitor credibility signals for this model.

The Exos is heavier than true ultralight cottage packs, but it is much more comfortable and ventilated for moderate to heavy loads. The hip belt, shoulder straps, adjustable torso, load lifters, and tensioned mesh back panel make it a good long-distance option for hikers who still want comfort and airflow.

The 58L version works well with a bear canister in the Sierra, and the 48L version suits more compact setups. I usually leave the removable top lid behind to save weight, and I prefer strapping trekking poles to the side with compression straps rather than using the dedicated trekking pole attachment.

The main drawbacks are weight, weather protection, and mesh durability. I did rip the mesh during thru-hikes, so hikers who bushwhack or scramble should be realistic, but the Osprey warranty remains a major advantage.

Best for: Comfort, ventilation, value, and hikers moving lighter.

The Gossamer Gear Kumo is for hikers who already have a compact shelter, quilt, and sleep system. At 36L, it is too small for most backpackers, but it makes sense for experienced ultralight hikers who do not need extra volume.

Onna “Onnamove” Voellmer used the Kumo 36L on the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Arizona Trail. She regards it as a lightweight backpack for thru-hiking and peak bagging, and she reports that the shoulder straps are comfortable around 20 lb / 9 kg and sometimes loaded to 25 lb / 11 kg after a large resupply.

The side pockets and rear stretch pocket add useful volume, and the supplied pad can be swapped with a sleeping pad for extra back padding. The trade-off is simple: this pack is only for hikers who have already committed to an ultralight kit.

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 anUltralight Backpacking Tent.

Best for: Minimalist thru-hikers, peak bagging, and bikepacking-style light loads.

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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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 2026. 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 2026:

• Best Ultralight Backpack Overall – Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra
• Best Waterproof Ultralight Backpack – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40L
• Most Comfortable Lightweight Backpack – Osprey Exos Pro
• Best Proven Thru Hiking Backpack – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest
• Best Large Capacity Lightweight 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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