Best Backpack for Hiking and Day Trips in 2026

By Editorial Team | April 2026

Short walks, day hikes and throw-it-in-the-car outings don't need a 30-litre monster. They need something light, simple and cheap enough that you won't resent carrying it. The Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L is the best overall pick because it keeps the basics tight: 10L capacity, padded straps, a padded back and a price that stays low.

Our picks at a glance

Pick	Product	Price	Best for
Best overall	Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L	£31.42	Short hikes, walks and everyday carry with minimal bulk
Best upgrade	Osprey Daylite	£66.99	Commuting, travel and light hikes when you want more space and better all-round balance
Best budget	Nike Utility Power 2.0 Duffel Bag	£53.48	Gym days and short kit-haul jobs where a backpack is not the right shape

Based on hands-on research, expert review consensus (RTings, Wirecutter, relevant subreddits), and current pricing.

Best overall: Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L

Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L — £31.42

This is the backpack you buy when you want a small, unfussy daypack that disappears on your back and does not ask much of you. Its 145g weight is the real selling point: it is light enough to toss in a larger bag, but still comfortable enough for a few hours on foot. The 10-year warranty is also a proper advantage at this price, because cheap bags usually feel disposable.

Why we picked it:

• The 145g weight makes it one of the easiest packs to live with for quick outings and backup carry.
• Padded straps and a padded back are enough for short hikes and casual use without adding bulk.
• One main compartment, a deep outer pocket and a double zip keep access simple instead of fussy.

The trade-off: it is too small and too basic for laptops, serious organisation or sweaty all-day hikes, and the back has no ventilation system. If you want the deal, buy the Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L.

Best upgrade: Osprey Daylite

Osprey Daylite — £66.99

The extra money buys you a more versatile 20L pack with better everyday balance. It gives you enough room for layers, a bottle, chargers and the odds and ends that make a daypack useful beyond a short walk, while the padded base and twin side pockets make it easier to live with on commutes and travel days.

Worth it if: you want one pack for work, errands, travel and light outdoor use, and you are happy to pay for more capacity and a more refined carry.

Best budget pick: Nike Utility Power 2.0 Duffel Bag

Nike Utility Power 2.0 Duffel Bag — £53.48

This is not a backpack, but it is the cheaper option if your real problem is hauling shoes and kit without overthinking it. The 31L main compartment and zipped outer pocket make it more practical than a generic holdall for gym use, and the shoulder strap gives you a second carry option when the bag is full.

Worth it if: your priority is gym kit, trainers and spare clothes rather than a compact hiking daypack.

How we chose

We looked at carry comfort, capacity, weight, pocket layout and whether the bag actually suits short outings rather than pretending to do everything. We also checked current pricing and compared the subject product with real alternatives from Osprey and Nike, plus Decathlon's own range.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 10L backpack big enough for a day hike? Yes, if you are only carrying the basics: water, snacks, a phone, keys and a light layer. It is not enough if you pack a laptop, camera gear or a full spare outfit.

Is the Quechua NH Arpenaz 50 10L good value for £31.42? Yes. The weight, comfort basics and 10-year warranty make it feel better thought out than most cheap small daypacks.

How do you clean it and keep it usable? Wipe it down and air-dry it; don't expect it to handle heavy rain or be machine-washed like laundry.