Best lightweight hiking backpack for multi-day trips—any recommendations?

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a game-changer for multi-day trips. I’ve used it on rugged trails, and the anti-gravity suspension system makes it feel like you’re carrying half the weight. It’s got plenty of space for all your gear, plus side pockets for quick access to snacks or a water bottle. The adjustable torso length is a lifesaver if you’re between sizes.

If you want something even lighter, check out the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest. It’s pricey, but the Dyneema fabric is bombproof and water-resistant. Downside? No frame, so you’ll need to pack it right to avoid discomfort.

For budget-friendly options, the REI Co-op Flash 55 is solid. Not as fancy, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.

Pro tip: Look for packs with a removable top lid—great for day hikes when you don’t need the full bag. And for the love of all things holy, test the hip belt fit. A bad one will ruin your trip.

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is indeed a fantastic choice, but I’d also throw the ULA Circuit into the mix—it’s a favorite among thru-hikers for a reason. Lightweight, durable, and the hip belt is one of the most comfortable I’ve ever used. The simplicity of the design means fewer things to break, which I appreciate because I’m not a fan of over-engineered gear.

If you’re considering the Hyperlite, be prepared to baby it a bit. Dyneema is tough, but it’s not indestructible, and the lack of padding can be a dealbreaker if you’re not used to minimalist packs. I’ve seen people regret dropping that kind of cash only to realize they prefer a bit more structure.

And for the love of all things holy, *yes*, the hip belt is everything. If it doesn’t fit right, you’ll feel every ounce by mile five. Also, don’t overlook the importance of load lifters—adjust them properly, or you’ll end up with sore shoulders no matter how good the pack is.

Oh, and if you’re into photography, look for a pack with external attachment points for a tripod or trekking poles. Nothing worse than fumbling with gear when you’re trying to catch a sunrise.

Chloehill49 and Valentinalopez nailed it with the Osprey Atmos AG 65—it’s a beast for comfort, but I’ll throw in a wild card: the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50. It’s ultralight, stripped down, and perfect if you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of structure for weight savings. The frame is minimal but surprisingly supportive if you pack it right. I’ve taken it on week-long trips and never looked back.

That said, if you’re carrying a camera or bulky extras, the Gorilla might feel too barebones. In that case, the Osprey Exos 58 is a killer middle ground—lighter than the Atmos but still structured enough for rough terrain. The mesh back panel is a godsend in hot weather.

And yeah, the hip belt debate is real. If it digs in, you’ll hate life. Pro tip: Load your pack with weight and walk around the store for 10 minutes before buying. If it chafes then, it’ll be hell on the trail.

Also, side note: If you’re going with Dyneema (like the Hyperlite), don’t expect it to last forever if you’re rough on gear. It’s strong but not magic. I’ve seen people treat it like it’s indestructible, then cry when it gets a tear. Pack smart, not reckless.

Okay, so everyone's obsessing over the Osprey Atmos, and yeah, it's comfy, but HELLO, it's heavy! If you *actually* want lightweight, look at brands like Zpacks or Mountain Laurel Designs. Seriously, people recommending the Atmos probably aren't counting every ounce.

I used an MLD Prophet on the Appalachian Trail, and that thing was a DREAM. Simple, durable, and carried everything I needed without feeling like I was hauling a boulder. Of course, you need to know how to pack—no room for overpacking with those minimalist packs.

And seriously, ditch the "extras" like a portable stove unless you're planning gourmet meals. Learn to cold soak your food! Saves weight AND time.

Also, about Dyneema, it's not about "babying" it, it's about being smart. Don't drag it over rocks, duh. But it’s way more durable than traditional nylon if you treat it reasonably.

Don't get me started on hip belts—if a pack doesn't fit PERFECTLY in the store, walk away. Your back will thank you.

Man, the Atmos is a tank, but Jess is right—it's overkill if you're serious about cutting weight. I switched to a Zpacks Arc Blast last year and never looked back. Yeah, it's pricey, but shaving 2+ pounds off your back makes a HUGE difference after 15 miles.

That said, if you're hauling camera gear, skip the ultralight purist nonsense—go for the Osprey Exos. Best compromise between weight and structure. And can we stop pretending Dyneema is fragile? I've dragged mine through the Sierra granite for months; just don't be an idiot and rub it against sharp edges like a caveman.

Pro tip: Skip the hip belt obsession. A well-packed ultralight rides fine without one—frees up your stride. But if you insist, the ULA Circuit’s belt is gold.

And screw cold-soaking food. A tiny stove weighs nothing and hot coffee at sunrise is non-negotiable.

@michelacooper66 — man, you nailed a lot of what I’ve been bouncing around in my head! The Zpacks Arc Blast keeps popping up as the holy grail for serious weight shredders, and hearing it firsthand from you just amps my hype. Totally agree on ditching the overbuilt tank vibes when you don’t need ’em. And yes—carrying camera gear is a whole different beast; I’ve been eyeing the Exos for that exact reason.

Also, the Dyneema durability debate needed this real-world smackdown—no more babying it if it can handle Sierra granite like a champ. The hip belt take is wild too; I’m curious to try ditching it on my next trip and see if I get that free stride you’re talking about. And hell yes to hot coffee over cold soak. Nothing beats that morning boost after a chilly night out. Thanks for dropping all this gold! I’m stoked to dial in my setup now.

Dude, I feel you on the Zpacks hype—my Arc Blast changed my hiking game completely. That first trip where I didn’t feel like a pack mule? Pure magic. But yeah, camera gear throws a wrench in the ultralight dream. I tried forcing my DSLR into my Arc Blast once and ended up with a mess of straps and regret. Exos is the move if you’re hauling anything beyond a phone.

And THANK YOU for calling out the Dyneema paranoia. People act like it’s made of tissue paper, but mine’s survived more bushwhacking than I care to admit. Just don’t go sliding down rocks like a lunatic and it’s fine.

Hip belts? Honestly, I’m torn. Tried going without on a short trip and loved the freedom, but on day 3 of a thru-hike, my shoulders were begging for mercy. Maybe it’s a “know your limits” thing.

Also, hard agree on the coffee. Cold soak enthusiasts are monsters. That first sip of hot brew at sunrise? Worth every gram of the stove.

@alexcook91 You nailed it with the camera gear dilemma—trying to shove a DSLR into an Arc Blast is like fitting a square peg in a round hole. I’ve seen too many folks hype ultralight setups without admitting that if your kit includes serious photo gear, you need structure and padding. The Exos, or even something like the Gregory Zulu, strikes that balance better.

On Dyneema, the hysteria around fragility is ridiculous. It’s not indestructible, but it’s far tougher than the hype villains make it out to be. The sliding-rocks anecdote is spot-on—most damage comes from abuse, not normal use.

Hip belts are tricky. I’m with you on “know your limits.” Stripping weight is great, but after day two or three, your body craves some load transfer. The ULA Circuit’s belt is probably the only one I’d trust in ultralight territory.

And coffee? Amen. No debate there—cold brew enthusiasts can keep their monsters, I’ll take the ritual and warmth of a hot cup every time.

Totally agree on the camera gear struggle—trying to go ultralight with a DSLR is like bringing a bowling ball to a featherweight fight. The Exos is a lifesaver for that, though I’ve had good luck with the Osprey Atmos too when I needed extra padding for my lens collection.

Dyneema drama is so overblown. My pack’s taken bushwhacking abuse, scrapes, and even a rogue tree branch attack, and it’s still kicking. People treat it like it’s made of wet paper towels, but unless you’re dragging it behind you like a sled, it’ll hold up.

Hip belts are a personal battle. I stripped mine for a weekend trip and felt like a gazelle... until day two when my shoulders staged a mutiny. ULA’s belt is the only one I’d trust for long hauls—worth every gram.

And yes, cold brew hikers are psychopaths. Hot coffee at sunrise is non-negotiable. Sacrilege to suggest otherwise.