Best 10 Packable Backpacks and Foldable Bags Of 2024

Packable backpacks are becoming very popular as years go by. They are just great and perfect for lots of activities. They are great for hiking and perfect for travel. A packable backpack provides a strong and durable backpack in case of emergencies. There are many pocket backpacks to choose from which is one of the reasons why I am recommending the ones below. They are amazing and very durable which is why I know that lots of people will love them as well.

Best Packable Backpacks – Quick Chart

How To Choose A Packable Or Foldable Backpack

Types Of Outdoor Backpacks

Packable Backpacks

Packable backpacks can be folded into a very small size. Most of the time, foldable size or the compact size will be the size of a wallet. These backpacks are often very light with a few pockets. These will often not have padding on the shoulders and will not have hip belts. There will be a main compartment that is pretty large or has a very good capacity.

Hiking Daypacks

These backpacks will often have a hydration bladder compartment where people can put a hydration bladder. There will be mesh pockets at the side for water bottles and a straps on the outside for hiking sticks. These backpacks are often around 2 pounds or so. These will come with padded shoulder straps, hip belts and back cushioning.

Camping and Backpacking Backpacks

These backpacks will often have a huge capacity. The main compartment can often hold 50 liters or more. These will have sleeping bag compartments at the bottom, waterproof rain covers, water resistant fabric, and lots of padding. These backpacks are meant to carry a lot of items and meant to help the user carry the items.

Tactical Backpacks

These backpacks will often have a lot of pockets for different kinds of gear. The distinct characteristic of these backpacks would be the MOLLE webbings. These webbings allow the backpack to add additional pockets to its body. The pockets will stick to the Velcro or to the MOLLE webbings. We can easily add and take out pouches or pockets depending on our needs and situations.

Travel Backpacks

Travel backpacks can be anything. Most people would pick a backpack with wheels though. These backpacks are easy to carry and very good for travel. Travel backpacks can be anything. Certain airports will allow certain backpacks to the airplane. They have a size requirement.

Three Frame Types To Choose From

Frames keep the shape of the backpack. Think of these frames like the spine of the human body. The human body can be erect because of the spine. It is the same thing with frames. Frames support and keep the shape of the backpack.

Internal Frame

Internal frames are frames that are inside the backpack. These frames are not visible but hidden inside the back of the bag. These frames are very popular. Most of the backpacks that you will see will have an internal frame type design.

External Frame

External frames are frames that are on the outside of the backpack. I’ve seen some very old movies of hikers where they would carry aluminum poles behind their back. These are the external frames and they keep the backpack in shape. These are not very popular and you will hardly see external frame backpacks these days.

No Frame

No frame backpacks are very common with packable backpacks. These backpacks will not have a shape or stand erect. They will take on the shape of the items that you put inside the backpack. These can be problematic if you are carrying a lot and walking for a lot of miles.

Features To Think About For Backpacks

Material

The material of the backpack is very important. The fabric will decide whether the backpack is durable or not. The material can also make the backpack water repellent or absorb water. The material is also largely responsible for the overall weight of the backpack. It is very important to look at what kind of fabric the backpack is made out of.

Torso Size

It is easier to carry a backpack that is fitted for your upper body’s measurements. It is best to look at the torso size. If the backpack fits the person very well, then that person will have an easier time carrying the backpack. If the backpack does not fit the person at all, then that person will use more energy to carry the backpack around.

Hip Belt

Most packable backpacks do not have a hip belt. This is more common with hiking and camping backpacks. Hip belts put the weight of the backpack on the hips so that the backpack is easier to carry. This is a very nice feature if you are going to be carrying 15 pounds or more.

Number Of Compartments

The more compartments that the backpack has, the easier we can organize our items. More pockets mean more organization and ways we can store our devices, gadgets and other items. Keep in mind that pockets use fabric and the more fabric the backpack has, the more weight it will have also.

Attachment Points

Attachment points are often used so that you can hang an item on the outside of your backpack. You can put a plastic bag or whatever on these attachment points. Most hiking backpacks will have attachment points of hiking poles and other hiking items.

Hydration Bladder Compartment

Most packable backpacks do not have a hydration bladder compartment. A hydration bladder is a water container that is used for hiking. People put the water on the container and drink from it through a hose.

Padded Shoulder Straps

Most packable backpacks do not have padding because padding makes it very hard to fold the backpack into a smaller item. So most packable backpacks do not have a shoulder padding. If you are going to be carrying a lot of items, then your shoulder may hurt from the friction and pressure. This is just something that we need to keep in mind.

Things To Consider

Weight

The weight of the item matters especially if you are going to use this backpack for hiking or travel purposes. It is nice that we can put the backpack into our pockets but if the item is too heavy, we will be annoyed carrying it around. It is best that we get something lightweight that works well for us. A lightweight item will be very easy to carry.

Capacity

The capacity of the backpack is a factor we need to keep in mind. We want to carry a lot of items for travel, for hiking, camping or any outdoor activity. The capacity of the backpack will tell us how much room it has. If we are going to be using it to bring a laptop, devices or even food ingredients, we need to know how many items the backpack can hold.

Pockets

A lot of lightweight backpacks do not have a lot of pockets. The more pockets the item has, the more fabric and zippers it will have. This adds weight also. So most companies go with the simple design with very little pockets to keep their products very light. However, if you do not mind a bag that is a few ounces heavier then you should get one with lots of pockets.

Price

The price of the item is also very important factor we need to consider. There are lots of backpacks that are not really good. Even the item is expensive, sometimes the item is badly designed. It is not that stylish. We have to consider the price. There are lots of items that come from companies that are brand new that are asking for a lot. There are companies that are reputable that create the higher quality items for the same price.

Packed Dimensions

A lot of people are looking for a very small packable backpack. They often use it for travel, for gym or as a backup. It is important that we get items that works well for us. You can just pay attention to the packed dimensions of the item. A backup bag is kind of useful especially if you travel. Extra space is very good and helps a lot in certain situations.

Best Packable Backpacks

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1. Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Technical Specs
Weight: 3.04 oz
Dimensions: 17 x 9 x 7in.
Material: Ripstop Nylon
Capacity: 18L
Feature Summary: Packs down into its own carrying case, 1098 cubic inches or approximately 18 liters, airmesh harness provides comfortable carry,  small day pack to carry just the essentials for a day trip

Short Review: I am constantly shocked considering that this packable backpack continue to satisfy plenty of people. This is constructed out of sturdy 40D nylon ripstop and this features volume of 1098 cubic inches or approximately 18 liters. This comes with radio Frequency Identification (RFID) protection which makes this great for travel. Having a great item like this is great for the outdoors and this has lots of positive customer testimonials. This is very easy to carry and provides a lot of room for a lot of items. I love this backpack and great for hiking, travel and for going to the gym. The customer feedback were correct, this is one of the best. Right now, this is one of the finest backpack in the market.

2. AmazonBasics Ultralight Packable Day Pack

Technical Specs
Weight: 6.4 oz
Dimensions: 19 x 8.2 x 13in.
Material: Nylon
Capacity: 35 L
Feature Summary: adjustable breathable straps ensure a proper fit and comfortable all-day use, stuffed into its own zippered pocket for space-saving storage and compact portability

Short Review: This backpack may be one of the very best things that you have ever obtained. This features adjustable breathable straps ensure a proper fit and comfortable all-day use. This can be stuffed into its own zippered pocket for space-saving storage and compact portability. There is just something stunning concerning the design of this item. One true statement I can say is that high quality items such as this one will always have plenty of returning customers. This is incredibly good and the design is exquisite. Amazon is a pretty good company and this is an amazing backpack from them. It offers 35L of space or capacity which is plenty space for lots of items. Great backpack for the outdoors, casual activity or for hiking purposes.

3. Outlander Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack

Technical Specs
Weight: 0.5 lbs
Dimensions: 19 x 13 x 8.2in.
Material: Nylon
Capacity: 20/33 L
Feature Summary: Rip and water-resistant nylon fabric, durable 2-way abrasion resistant sbs metal zippers, unfolds from pocket to backpack, classic shape with several pockets for storage and organization

Short Review: There are numerous packable backpacks that I love however this is one of my favorites. This features durable 2-way abrasion resistant sbs metal zippers across the backpack. This features a classic shape with several pockets for storage and organization. This is constructed out of highly rip and water-resistant nylon fabric, which provides strength and long-lasting performance. Any individual can easily tell that this is wonderful which explains why this has lots of positive customer feedback. This looks small but it can handle or carry a lot of items which was very surprising. There aren’t many pockets but the main compartment is pretty large.

4. Venture Pal Lightweight Packable Daypack

Technical Specs
Weight: 0.7 lbs
Dimensions: 17″ x 12″ x 7.3’’
Material: Nylon
Capacity: 35 L
Feature Summary: High quality tear and water resistant material, long-lasting performance with the lightest weight possible, breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding

Short Review: This backpack is astonishing and I like it a whole lot. People can choose from different colors as well. This features breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding which lets the air out so that odor doesn’t accumulate. The main compartment provides 35L of space which is pretty amazing. The fabric feels very durable and should lasts for many years to come as long as you do not abuse it. I realized that this is going to be really effective mainly because of the positive customer feedback. This item has a gorgeous design that looks amazing.

5. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Day Pack

Technical Specs
Weight: 4 oz
Dimensions: 6.85″ x 6.77″ x 1.97″
Material: Siliconized Cordura
Capacity: 22 L
Feature Summary: Packs down small so it easily fits in pockets, streamlined design making it light and low-profile, siliconized Cordura for strength and durability, bar tack reinforced stitching

Short Review: You will be surprised at how impressive this backpack is. This superb company consistently exceed my expectations simply because their items are amazing. Sea to Summit continually creates amazing outdoor items that are very durable and very useful. This is a pretty fantastic backpack that works well. I really like that this is incredibly high quality and a great deal of people like making use of this. The backpack is waterproof due to the Cordura Nylon fabric. This makes the backpack lightweight as well. This has a marvelous design and it is also loaded with a great deal of splendid features.

6. 4Monster Hiking Daypack

Technical Specs
Weight: 4 oz
Dimensions:
Material: 30D nylon
Capacity: 16L or 24L
Feature Summary: Can be folded into the wallet size fit into a pocket, Tear-resistant 30D nylon will effectively prevent branches, stones from scratching the pack, keys and other products, main compartment provides enough storage space for day trips

Short Review: I like using this packable backpack and I know that you will too. This is a lightweight hiking daypack is made of water-resistant material and zipper. This features an easy to carry design that can be folded into the wallet size fit into a pocket. This foldable backpack provides enough space for various outdoor adventures. This is an amazing item with an even better price plus it has lots of features. This is very compact. It can transform or be folded down to a size of a potato or a fist. his unbelievable item is one of the finest that is available right now and it is also very inexpensive. A pretty good hiking backpack that can be used for other activities as well.

7. Hikpro 20L – The Most Durable Lightweight Packable Backpack

Technical Specs
Weight: 7.5 oz
Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 5.5in.
Material: Nylon
Capacity: 20 L
Feature Summary: Made with high-quality water resistant nylon material, water-resistant function allows the contents of the backpack to be kept dry for 40 minutes – 1 hour in the rain, wide breathable mesh shoulder straps

Short Review: This astounding backpack will amaze you. The outdoors can be easier with this because this provides lots of benefits. This is constructed out of high-quality water resistant nylon material that have more textile threads per unit area, so it is tough and tear resistant. The item is very durable while also being very lightweight. It seems puncture resistant and tear resistant as well. I could not have asked for a better item for the selling price. The usefulness this brings for hiking purposes is amazing which is why I highly recommend this. If you take into mind the modest price, this is fantastic. This spacious interior is designed to store a lot of stuff. This is extraordinary and it has plenty of consumer feedback.

8. bago Lightweight Foldable Backpack

Technical Specs
Weight: 7 oz
Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.1 x 11.8in.
Material: Honeycomb Polyester
Capacity: 25 L
Feature Summary: Fabric protects against moisture, folds into inner zip pocket to convert to a handy pouch, very lightweight outdoor backpack, traveling backpack or day pack prevents back strain, durable, waterproof and tear-resistant

Short Review: This pocket backpack is quite affordable and it works well also. This is a lightweight packable backpack that converts to a handy pouch. There are various colors to choose from. You can get the color that you want that is suitable for your needs. There are lots of things that I like about this. The price is just amazingly inexpensive. We can carry more because this is very light. Consider the money that you can save if you get this item. The low price of this item is one of its best benefits. This is waterproof as well which is great for rainy weather. It can protect the inside from getting wet. This is a good backpack that is very versatile and very durable.

9. geckobrands Waterproof 10L Drawstring Backpack

Technical Specs
Weight: 0.4 lbs
Dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 1.5 inches
Material: 210D ripstop polyester
Capacity: 10L
Feature Summary: 210D ripstop polyester with an interior polyurethane coating to keep the weight light while protecting what’s inside from outside elements, easy-to-adjust and comfortable, perfect backpack for rain or other light water activities

Short Review: You will be astonished at how amazing this backpack is. This is very good item that can hold around 10L of stuff. It is not much but it is pretty waterproof which makes it great for rainy weather. This is constructed out of 210D ripstop polyester with an interior polyurethane coating to keep the weight light while protecting what’s inside from outside elements. If you have items like cameras or batteries that you do not want to get wet when doing an outdoor activity then this is a good backpack for you. A very useful item for the outdoors and this works well also. The outdoors is a lot more fun if you have a good item like this and this is very useful as well. I find this item to be superb and it came from a great company.

10. G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack

Technical Specs
Weight: 0.35 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.8 x 6.3 inch
Material: Nylon
Capacity: 20L
Feature Summary: Ultra-lightweight shoulder bag, easily pack it in your suitcase or purse, three zippered compartments, large sides mesh pockets

Short Review: This backpack is impressive and it is from a very good outdoor company. The main pocket is Large enough to hold the computer and clothes while the outer smaller pockets are great for quick access. This is constructed out of high-quality water and tear abrasion-resistant water-resistant coated Nylon material with SBS metal zipper. This is very very lightweight so if you want to go hiking with a very light backpack, then this is a good choice. I know that you are going to be really content with this because this has a great deal of positive customer feedback. Resilient items such as this enable us save money in the long run since this will lasts for a long time. This item has an affordable price tag and this can store and carry items for hiking, travel or for everyday purposes.