Unearth The Voyage
Pack smarter, hike farther, and save space with ultralight backpacks that disappear into your palm yet perform on rugged trails. In 2025, foldable hiking packs are tougher, more weatherproof, and more comfortable than ever. Whether you’re a weekend peak-bagger, frequent traveler, or just want a “just-in-case” daypack, these picks deliver real trail performance without bulk. Read on to find the perfect packable companion that slips into your luggage and shines when it counts.
Matador Freerain28 Waterproof Pack
The Matador Freerain28 is a true expedition-ready packable, marrying hardcore waterproofing with featherweight portability. Built from 30D Cordura ripstop and fully seam-taped, it shrugs off downpours while the roll-top closure seals out splash and grit. Despite its ultralight construction, the frame-less design carries with surprising stability, aided by breathable straps and smart patterning. Inside, the 28-liter capacity swallows layers and emergency gear, and external lash points secure wet items or trekking poles. It compresses into a palm-sized pouch that disappears into luggage or glove compartments. Testers praised its weatherproof confidence on rainy alpine approaches and paddle-to-hike adventures. For travelers and hikers who refuse to compromise when storms roll in, the Freerain28 sets the benchmark for packable performance in 2025.
Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack returns in 2025 as a featherlight favorite for minimalist hikers and travelers. Weighing under four ounces, it compresses to fist-size yet expands to a practical 18 liters for layers, snacks, and a compact camera. Its 40D ripstop nylon resists abrasion better than its weight suggests, and the weather-resistant fabric sheds light drizzle. Organization stays simple but effective: a zippered main compartment, top stash pocket for keys and cards, and a mesh side pocket for bottles. The lightly contoured straps keep things comfortable on short-to-moderate hikes. Testers lauded its grab-and-go versatility for spontaneous trail detours, grocery runs abroad, or summit pushes from basecamp. Affordable, reliable, and incredibly small when packed, it’s the quintessential “just-in-case” hiking pack.
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack
The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack remains the gold standard for maximum portability. At roughly 2.5 ounces, it compresses to a keychain-sized pouch that fits in any pocket, yet deploys to a surprisingly capable 20-liter daypack. Its 30D siliconized Cordura resists tearing and light moisture, ideal for summit scrambles or travel markets. While unpadded and deliberately minimal, the design’s strength-to-weight ratio impressed testers on quick peak dashes and city excursions alike. The simple main compartment swallows layers, snacks, and an ultralight shell, while the streamlined profile minimizes snags. It won’t replace a framed pack, but for those counting grams and cubic inches, it’s a space-saving marvel. If you need an emergency or auxiliary bag with proven durability, this remains a top ultralight pick for 2025.
Deuter Packable AC Lite 15
Deuter’s Packable AC Lite 15 brings rare comfort to the foldable category. The Aircomfort mesh back system promotes airflow across sweaty climbs, and padded shoulder straps plus a sternum strap keep the load steady. Built from lightweight ripstop nylon, it folds down easily yet maintains structure when packed with layers and a reservoir. The 15-liter capacity is ample for essentials, and hydration compatibility boosts its trail credentials. Testers praised the ergonomic fit and even weight distribution on warm-weather day hikes. While compact, it feels like a “real backpack” where many packables don’t. For hikers who prioritize ventilation and comfort without carrying a full-size daypack, the AC Lite 15 delivers a thoughtful, trail-ready balance that doesn’t hog space in your suitcase.
Naturehike 18L Foldable Backpack
The Naturehike 18L Foldable Backpack punches above its price, offering dependable performance in a tiny package. Crafted from water-resistant nylon, it folds into its own interior pocket for simple, travel-friendly storage. Two side pockets fit bottles securely, while a front zipper pocket corrals small essentials and maps. The main compartment accommodates a shell, snacks, and a compact camera, making it excellent for short trails or bike commutes. Despite its minimal weight, the stitching and fabric feel reassuringly tough for casual adventures. Testers appreciated its value, calling it an ideal secondary pack for travel day trips or overflow gear. If you want straightforward function without spending big, this bag nails the essentials. Simple, reliable, and incredibly packable, it’s a smart budget pick for 2025.
Matador ReFraction Packable Backpack
The Matador ReFraction bridges city style and trail utility in a slick, sustainable package. Built from recycled, water-resistant nylon with a DWR finish, it balances eco-friendly materials with daily durability. The 18-liter capacity offers a main compartment, internal organizer, and a discreet zip pocket for passports and valuables. It stows into an integrated pouch yet unfolds with surprising structure, avoiding the floppy feel of many packables. Testers admired its refined look that transitions from airport terminals to forest paths without missing a beat. Light, compact, and polished, it’s equally ready for museum days or mellow ridge walks. If you want one bag that packs down small and looks premium in any setting, the ReFraction is a standout in 2025.
Gregory Nano 18 Packable Edition
Gregory’s Nano 18 Packable Edition delivers ergonomic comfort in a compact bundle. A breathable back panel and adjustable sternum strap provide stability over varied terrain, while the top-loading main compartment keeps packing simple. Inside, an internal hydration sleeve boosts trail readiness and organization. The high-density ripstop nylon holds up to frequent use and folds easily into its included pouch. Testers highlighted its superior structure versus typical ultralights, noting confident carry on longer day hikes. Capacity is ideal for layers, lunch, and emergency gear without excess bulk. If you want a packable daypack that actually feels supportive, the Nano 18 is a smart pick. It’s the rare foldable that prioritizes fit and function as much as packability.
REI Co-op Flash Packable 22
The REI Co-op Flash Packable 22 offers real trail capability in a space-saving design. Its durable ripstop nylon and breathable mesh shoulder straps balance toughness with comfort, while 22 liters accommodate layers, food, and camera gear. Front compression straps secure trekking poles or a jacket, and the pack neatly stuffs into its own pocket post-hike. Testers praised its approachable weight and versatile storage for travel or weekend trail runs. It rides well for a frameless pack, with thoughtful details that reduce bounce and sway. If you need one foldable that handles bigger days without feeling flimsy, the Flash 22 is a dependable companion. For 2025, it remains one of the most reliable mid-size packable options available.
Montbell Pocketable Daypack 20
Montbell’s Pocketable Daypack 20 earns ultralight loyalty with refined simplicity and strong materials. The 30D Ballistic nylon ripstop feels impressively tough for the weight, and the streamlined profile reduces snags on brushy trails. A single main compartment keeps packing fast, while adjustable straps dial in fit for quick summit pushes. It folds into a compact pouch that tucks easily into luggage or a larger backpack. Testers liked its predictable carry and low visual profile for travel. While minimalistic, it comfortably handles essentials for half-day hikes. For hikers who prioritize grams without sacrificing durability, Montbell’s precise engineering keeps this pack at the forefront of ultralight design in 2025.
Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Día Packable Backpack
The Cotopaxi Luzon 18L Del Día adds personality to performance with its one-of-a-kind colorways and repurposed nylon construction. The drawstring top grants quick access, while a front zip pocket organizes small items on the move. Lightweight and compressible, it packs down small for travel and bursts into action for day hikes or city walks. Testers appreciated the breezy carry and fun aesthetic that stands out at crowded trailheads. While unstructured, it rides comfortably with soft goods and light gear. Eco-friendly materials and playful design make it a feel-good choice for 2025. For adventurers who like color and conscience, the Luzon proves that packable can be both practical and delightful.
