We frequently have to make tradeoffs when purchasing any type of gear, and a daypack is no different.

A single ice axe loop gives winter walking capabilities and you also get the unique “Stow-on-the-go” trekking pole attachment system. Before you start fitting the pack, loosen off all the straps as this will make it easier to get the correct tension later. On previous trips, usually, the city break guides, carrying a weekend’s worth of stuff in my rucksack would give me back pain (pathetic I know).

Seams are not sealed or taped on the Tempest 20, but the inside of the front pocket and the hydration sleeve are water-resistant. The Osprey Tempest 40 again has all the standard versatile features you’ll find in the Tempest 20, but again with twenty more liters.

If you'd love to extend your jaunts on the trails, you might also be interested in one of these top women's backpacking packs or a pair of the best women's hiking boots. The Gregory Jade is also constructed of the same thick, 210-Denier nylon with a double layer on the bottom, but we aren't quite as wowed by the vast amount of holey mesh this pack presents for the world to snag on. With great accessibility to the side mesh pockets and the pockets on the hipbelt, it’s easily one of the most convenient daypack designs. AirScape™ backpanel with foam ridges for ventilation– On my trip, I found that the AirScape back panel pretty handy. As it wasn’t particularly heavy, I put this down to the bag itself as it obviously wasn’t appropriate for what I was using it for.If you are new to the backcountry or are just looking to update some well-loved items, we've reviewed all the latest hiking gear you might need to get out into nature. The Tempest 20 has numerous straps to add gear and compress the pack or potentially certain items in the side pockets. To use the LidLock helmet attachment, locate LidLock clip on top front panel of pack, pull the clip away from pack, pass through helmet vent and secure in horizontal position.

The straps are lightly padded and covered with mesh to keep you cool and not absorb much moisture when sweating. Contrary to popular belief, your torso length and not your overall height is the key to getting a well fitted pack. She's also an avid trail runner and kayaker, with over 15 years of professional experience leading backcountry trips. A flexible BioStretch harness and hipbelt, with a continuous lumbar-to-hipbelt wrap, allow for dynamic movement. Stretch mesh side pockets with InsideOut™ compression– this is really useful to carry large bottles of water as thestraps hold them securely at your side.The Talon 22 has attachment points for trekking poles, ice axes and bike helmets, making it an all around great bag. A load-bearing hipbelt can carry an estimated 80% of the load, saving your shoulders (and your sanity! Remember that your hips carry most of the weight of the pack, so this should be firm but comfortable.