A good daypack is the one bit of kit you use every single time you head out walking, so it pays to choose well. Wilderness Magazine has rounded up the best options for 2025, along with a clear breakdown of what actually matters when you're comparing packs.

Start with capacity. Daypacks run from about 10 to 32 litres, and if you're buying just one, it needs room for waterproofs, food, water and the rest of your essentials — think closer to 20-30 litres for a full day in changeable weather.

Comfort comes down to a few features. Contoured shoulder straps with a sternum strap keep the load stable, while perforated foam or mesh panels cut down sweat on hot days. If you're carrying heavier loads or moving quickly, upgrade from a plain webbing belt to a padded hip belt — some even have pockets for snacks. Water resistance is largely handled by PFC-free durable water-repellent coatings these days, and many packs include a built-in rain cover, though packs with a storm throat and lid resist rain better than zip-only designs.

Beyond the basics, look for hydration compatibility (a bladder sleeve and hose port), stretch side pockets for bottles, compression straps or bungee cord to stabilise a half-empty pack, and dedicated attachment points if you carry walking poles or an ice axe.

The tested line-up spans ultralight to canvas classic. At the light end, the Deuter SpeedLite 21 weighs just 430g ($169.95) and the Rab Veil XP 20 is fully waterproof at 476g ($339.95) — ideal for fast, minimal missions. Mid-weight all-rounders include the The North Face Trail Lite 24 ($280), Osprey Sportlite 25 in recycled bluesign-approved fabric ($199.99), and Rab's Tygen 22 and Adrift 24, both under $200. For bigger loads, the Aarn Pace Magic 30 ($299) adds the brand's signature Hip Balance Pockets for better weight distribution, while the JR Gear Ultra Light Dry 30 ($234.99) is a rare lightweight pack in waterproof Cordura. One Planet's Waratah (from $279) is a Melbourne-made canvas top-loader for traditionalists, and Patagonia's 14-litre Terravia ($119) covers short, light outings with a rain cover thrown in.

Why it matters: whether you're planning day hikes around Queenstown, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or a coastal track closer to home, the right pack makes the difference between finishing the day comfortable and finishing it with sore shoulders and a soggy sandwich. Match capacity to your typical day, prioritise fit and ventilation, and pay for features you'll genuinely use — waterproofing if you hike in rain, hydration sleeves if you drink on the move.

Prices and details courtesy of Wilderness Magazine NZ's 2025 daypack guide.