8 Light, Foldable, Waterproof Daypacks Comparison (20L or less)

Whether you’re traveling to London or La Paz, a daypack is a must. While many might lean toward a daypack that’s 20L-30L, that’s too much room in my opinion. I used a 20L daypack for a 4-day trek in Peru and was able to fit everything I needed. Plus if you’re going for the long-haul, you’d want a real hiking backpack with solid padded straps and waist belt. Daypacks are the perfect companion for day trips. All you really need is enough space for water, a bit of snack, sunglasses, wallet, IDs, and maybe a jacket or an extra outfit. Even with a 15L bag, you’ll still have some spare room.

However, I find that no daypack will ever be perfect (is there?). I yearn for small built-in pockets on the straps and the sides that can be reached without taking off the backpack. See the list of “add-ons” and DIY tutorials at the end that’ll help customize the daypack to suit you.

Here’s a list of lightweight, simple, modestly priced daypacks for your next trip:

		[Measurements]		[Pros/Cons]
Quechua		10L 5.6 oz 15.7 x 9.1 x 3.9 in	$11 on Amazon	This is the one I have (same exact color ) There’s a thin back padding which makes it pretty comfortable to wear. But since it’s not foldable, it takes up a bit more room in the luggage. Also wished it had more pockets or a bottle slip.
Laluz		14 Liter 7.4oz Unfold size: 15 x 3.7 x 15.7 in Fold Size: 4.7 X 4.7 in	$9 on Amazon	It’s foldable and has several dividers, but the shoulder straps are very basic. Good for a day but another daypack might work better if you plan to load it up.
Gonex		20L 185g Compact Size: 16 x 16 cm Unfold size: 44 x 30 x15 cm	$13 on Amazon	Comfortable straps, lots of pockets, And foldable! it’s a bit bigger though.
Meyfancy		300g (0.67 lb) 12.6 x 7.09 x 3.35 inch	$14 on Amazon	Made with light canvas material, fitting for the city explorers but will also work for a hike in the mountains. The convertible straps allow you to wear it as a sling or a backpack.
Mangrove®		15L 14.6 x 10.2 x 5.9inches (37 x 26 x 15 cm)	$16 on Amazon	Simple and thin, it makes for a good backup bag if you’ll only be taking it to the market or beach.
WATERPROOF ULTRA LIGHT BACKPACKS
		[Measurements]		[Pros/Cons]
Aqua Quest Himal		20L 1 lb 7.87 x 1.97 x 7.87 inches	$46 on Amazon	A waist belt if the best selling point for this waterproof backpack. That means you can wear it for snorkeling and it won’t ride up or float all over the place!
Dry Bag/Travel Accessories		10L 500PVCShoulder Strap Included	$25 on Amazon	A good backup if you plan on taking a ferry or speed boat for day activities. The single strap is not meant for all day hikes.
Aqua Quest Mariner		10L 1 lb 11.81 x 0.79 x 19.69 in Non-toxic PVC	$26 on Amazon	This is made for durability. The material is quite thick and about the size of a small laptop when stored in the luggage. Though it is reassuring to know that it’s not going to get punctured easily.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR DAYPACK
Mokasi		6.7 x 4.7x 2 inches (L x W x H)	$8 on Amazon	Made from 1000D waterproof cordura nylon. The straps can be threaded through the loops on the back for a tight fit.
3V Gear		5.75″ T X 4″ W X 1.25″ D	$10 on Amazon	Compact pocket organizer. Made with 600 D PVC backed polyester makes it super rugged and weather resistant.
Condor		3.5″ Inches deep	$8 on Amazon	For compact storage such as flashlight, pen, pocket knife, medicine, keys, etc.
VISM		8.0″H X 3.25″ D	$5 on Amazon	Drawcord on top with spring-loaded plastic barrel, to cinch the top of the hydration bottle pouch around drinking bottle to keep it secured.
DIY Daypack and Accessories!