A super ultralight day pack for a super ultra low price.

Gossamer Gear Minimalist 19 Daypack is the best way to cut weight and save money while still maximizing exterior storage with a full suite of mesh pockets.

• Weight: 11.6 oz
• Price: $69
• Materials: 70D Robic Nylon
• Back Panel: Modular Foam Sit Pad
• Main Compartment Volume 19L
• External Volume: 6L*
• Pros: Ultralight. Great value. Surprisingly large front mesh pocket. Collapsible for travel. Sustainable.
• Cons: Minimal back panel. Floppy. Narrow side pockets. Lower than average durability.

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Features

The most important feature of the Gossamer Gear Minimalist is its weight. At 11.6 oz, it’s one of the very lightest packs with a full suite of external mesh pockets. The combination of those two things is what earned Minimalist’s place on this guide to the best ultralight daypack.

Gossamer Gear packs are known for their amazing external storage and this one does not disappoint. While the total external volume is not listed, we conservatively estimate 1L for each side pocket, and 4L for the rear back pocket. Though it is likely larger than that though.

This day hiking backpack is constructed with 70D Robic nylon, which is very light and has a high strength-to-weight, but still lower than average durability. It has a modular foam sit pad back panel, but it is quite thin which makes the overall pack kind of floppy. Remove the foam sit pad and the whole thing packs down to the size of a large sandwich, perfect to stow in a duffel while traveling for use as a daypack.

The design is a drawstring cinch top closure, which is quick and easy to use, but slightly less protective from rain than a roll top or clamshell. Hip belt straps are sold separately for an extra $20 and weigh 3.3 oz. They come with .5L hip belt pockets.

Verdict

With the Gossamer Gear Minimalist 19, you’re getting a super ultralight day pack with a full suite of external mesh pockets. It is very affordable, and very light.

Compare this to the other best day hiking backpacks! Make sure you’re all set for your next day hike with our 3 pound ultralight day hiking checklist. Need a bigger pack, jump to our guide for best backpacking packs.