I Hike Nearly Every Weekend, and These Are the Daypacks I Recommend for Fall Treks--All Under $100

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  Travel and Leisure on Thu, Oct 02nd, 2025 by Travel + Leisure

Fall‑Season Hiking Daypacks: A Gear Tester’s Pick‑List

When the leaves start to change, hikers switch from bulky, all‑season backpacks to lighter, more versatile daypacks that can comfortably carry everything you need for a single‑day excursion in cooler weather. Travel + Leisure’s “Fall Hiking Daypacks: Gear Tester Picks” cuts through the noise by testing a range of packs in real‑world fall conditions and zeroing in on the best options for comfort, durability, and value. Below is a comprehensive recap of the article’s findings, organized by category and finished with a quick buying guide.

1. How the Tester Made the Cut

The reviewer began by establishing a set of objective criteria:
- Weight – Light enough to keep the trail easy but heavy enough to feel stable.
- Capacity – 15–25 L, which is sufficient for a day’s gear, a rain jacket, a water bottle or a hydration bladder, and a small snack.
- Comfort – Adjustable shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, a hip belt that keeps weight off the shoulders, and a padded sternum strap.
- Durability – Reinforced seams, abrasion‑resistant fabric, and a weather‑proof cover or a built‑in rainfly.
- Versatility – Compatibility with hydration systems, quick‑access pockets, and optional compression straps.

The tester evaluated each pack over several short hikes (4–6 km) in a range of temperate‑weather conditions that mimic a typical fall trail. After a week of real‑time data collection, the packs were ranked in five distinct categories.

2. Category 1: Lightweight, Breathable Options

The Talon 22 is the go‑to for hikers who want a minimal footprint. Its 0.12 kg weight is almost half that of comparable packs, yet the pack still feels solid when fully loaded. The Deuter Speed Lite 25 adds a removable rain cover (sold separately), which the tester noted is perfect for sudden weather changes without adding much weight.

3. Category 2: Budget‑Friendly, All‑Rounders

Both packs are built from recycled materials, an important consideration for environmentally conscious hikers. The Mountain Hardwear Alibi even comes with a detachable raincover, making it a good budget choice for hikers who plan to cross a few streams or be caught in a sudden downpour.

4. Category 3: Hydration‑Compatible Packs

For those who plan to keep themselves hydrated throughout the hike, the North Face Atrium’s built‑in sleeve eliminates the need to lug a separate bladder. The Gregory Groundbreak 15, on the other hand, is lighter than most hydration packs, making it an ideal choice for shorter trails or when you’re carrying less gear.

5. Category 4: All‑Weather, Heavy‑Duty Packs

The Arc’teryx Coda is the “king” of the all‑weather packs. Its 1000D nylon shell holds up against harsh autumn storms, while the built‑in rain cover makes it unnecessary to carry an extra pouch. The REI Co-op Traverse, available on REI’s website, is a more affordable alternative that still delivers robust protection against the elements.

6. Quick Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Pack

1. Set a Budget – All the featured packs range from $99 to $179. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you dive into the specifics.
2. Know Your Load – Think about whether you’ll bring a hydration system, a rain jacket, or a camera.
3. Prioritize Comfort – If you’ll be carrying 3–4 kg, a hip belt and padded straps are essential.
4. Check Weather Forecast – Fall can be unpredictable. If you’re heading to a high‑altitude trail, an all‑weather pack might be worth the extra cost.
5. Test It Out – If possible, grab a rental or borrow a friend’s pack and go on a short walk to see how it feels.

7. Where to Buy

• Osprey Talon 22 – https://www.osprey.com/us/en/pd/talon-22.html
• Deuter Speed Lite 25 – https://www.deuter.com/us/en/c/activities/outdoor-hiking/speed-lite-25
• Patagonia Quandary 25 – https://www.patagonia.com/product/quandary-25-daypack/
• Mountain Hardwear Alibi 21 – https://www.mountainhardwear.com/en-us/mh/alibi-21-daypack/
• The North Face Atrium 18 – https://www.thenorthface.com/shop/mens-atrium-18-daypack
• Gregory Groundbreak 15 – https://www.gregorypacks.com/mens/groundbreak-15/
• Arc’teryx Coda – https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/coda
• REI Co-op Traverse 20 – https://www.rei.com/product/139795

8. Final Takeaway

Fall is a golden season for hiking, but it also demands careful gear selection. The Travel + Leisure reviewer’s methodology—testing each pack in real fall conditions—means you can trust the final rankings. Whether you’re after an ultra‑light daypack to keep your trail pace high, a budget‑friendly pack that still feels premium, or a weather‑proof option that can stand up to a sudden autumn storm, there’s a recommendation for every hiker’s needs.

With the insights above, you can confidently choose a daypack that not only fits your budget but also enhances your fall hiking experience. Happy trails!