The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2026

By Ian Freng
Updated November 12, 2026

An ultralight backpack can weigh a third as much as a traditional pack, but it only works if the rest of your gear is light too. These packs carry best at around 20-30 lbs total. The best ultralight backpacks balance low weight with enough frame and padding to stay comfortable on long days.

Best ultralight backpacks compared

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How I picked these

I’ve been backpacking for 16 years and hiking for 20, and I’ve owned and used a lot of gear in that time. I know what works on overnight trips and what doesn’t: gear that holds up, packs down, and earns its place on your back.

I compared these ultralight backpacks on weight, comfort at moderate loads, capacity, pocket layout and durability. Picks are based on that experience, manufacturer specifications and long-term owner feedback.

1. Osprey Exos Pro 55: best overall

The Exos Pro 55 strips the Exos down to its essentials with lighter fabrics while keeping its ventilated suspended back and comfortable hip belt. It’s a great choice for thru-hikers and fast weekend trips.

Where it falls short: it’s expensive, and the lighter fabrics are less durable.

2. Granite Gear Crown3 60: best value

The Crown3 is a thru-hiker favorite: light, adjustable and good value. You can remove the lid and frame sheet to save even more weight.

Where it falls short: the back panel doesn’t ventilate as well as the Osprey.

3. Osprey Eja Pro 55: best for women

The Eja Pro is the women’s version of the Exos Pro, with a shorter torso range and women’s-specific harness and hip belt.

Where it falls short: it’s expensive for its capacity.

4. 3F UL Qidian Pro: best budget

The Qidian Pro brings classic ultralight features, like a big front mesh pocket and roll-top, to a low price.

Where it falls short: the fit and durability aren’t as refined as premium packs.

5. Naturehike Rock 60L: budget alternative

The Naturehike Rock is a budget-friendly alternative with plenty of capacity and a light build.

Where it falls short: the suspension is basic for heavier loads.

Is an ultralight pack right for you?

Ultralight packs carry best with a total pack weight around 20-30 lbs. If your base weight (everything except food, water and fuel) is under about 15 lbs, an ultralight pack will feel great. If you carry a heavy tent, a bulky sleeping bag or lots of food and water, a traditional pack like those in our guide to the best backpacking backpacks will be more comfortable.

How to lower your base weight

• Swap to a lighter tent, sleeping bag and pad first: the big three.
• Weigh everything and cut duplicates.
• Repackage food and toiletries into smaller containers.
• Choose multi-use items, like trekking poles that pitch your tent.
• Carry the water you need between sources, not more.

Packing a frameless or minimal pack

• Use your folded sleeping pad as a ‘virtual frame’ against your back.
• Pack soft items against your back for comfort.
• Keep total weight under the pack’s comfortable limit.
• Use the big outside mesh pocket for wet gear and things you grab often.

Base weight targets

• Traditional: 20+ lbs base weight.
• Lightweight: 10-20 lbs.
• Ultralight: under 10 lbs.
• Super ultralight: under 5 lbs, usually with specialized gear and experience.

Gear shakedown before your trip

• Set up your tent, inflate your pad and test your stove at home.
• Weigh your loaded pack and cut anything you didn’t use on your last trip.
• Check the forecast and pack layers for the coldest likely night.
• Pack the ten essentials: navigation, light, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, extra food, extra water and extra clothes.
• Tell someone your route and expected return time.

Leave No Trace at camp

• Camp on durable surfaces like established sites, rock or gravel, at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
• Pack out all trash, including food scraps.
• Use established fire rings, or skip the fire and use a stove.
• Store food properly to protect wildlife.
• Leave what you find, and respect other visitors.

Ultralight backpack FAQ

What is an ultralight backpack?

A backpacking pack that weighs much less than traditional packs, often 1.5-2.5 lbs, usually with a minimal frame and fewer features.

Can ultralight backpacks carry heavy loads?

Not comfortably. Most carry best under about 30 lbs.

Are frameless packs comfortable?

With a light load, yes. Most hikers are more comfortable with at least a light frame.

What’s a good base weight for ultralight backpacking?

Under 10 lbs is usually considered ultralight; 10-20 lbs is lightweight.

Are ultralight backpacks durable?

Many use tough fabrics like Robic nylon or Dyneema. With care, they last a full thru-hike or more.

Which ultralight backpack should you buy?

The Osprey Exos Pro 55 is the best ultralight backpack for most hikers who want light weight with real comfort. The Granite Gear Crown3 60 is the best value, and women should try the Osprey Eja Pro 55.