Best Backpack with Detachable Daypack: 11 Best Options 2024

If you’re looking for an equally excellent backpack that can carry almost everything you own, look no further than the Deuter Air Contact X.

The large main compartment has a weight load of up to 60 lb (30 kg) plus a daypack capacity of 15L.

Like all Deuter backpacks, comfort comes first. The Air Contact X has excellent shoulder straps for a tailored fit and a back slide for length adjustment.

That’s not all. The backpack also has modular gear straps. These straps function as extra compartments. That’s because you can attach a tent, a sleeping bag, or a mat to your backpack.

The best part is that the bag model is available in an SL model. This design is more comfortable for those with a smaller frame, as it features a shorter torso and back.

What I Like

• The VariFlex hip fins allow you to access all your essentials while on the go.
• It has an elasticated inner compartment, helping you safely store water and wet clothing without worrying about getting to the rest of your items.
• The backpack includes Deuter’s Air Spacer, which provides ventilation and extra comfort.
• The day pack is the perfect size for all the essentials on a day trip. 
• It’s primarily made from recyclable yarn.

What I Dislike

• The bag weighs a whopping 8 lbs (3.5 kg), making it unsuitable for those with a weight allowance.
• It’s one of the more expensive bags on the list.

3. Best Lightweight: ALPS Mountaineering Red Tail 65

Whether you’re starting out or you’re a professional looking for a backpack that suits all your needs, the ALPS Mountaineering Red Tail is the jack-of-all-trades of backpacks with a detachable daypack.

This bag has plenty of compartments such as the front kangaroo pockets, extendable top lid, and of course, the daypack. So, you can easily stay organised during your trip.

And, as if that wasn’t enough, the bag’s top lid is removable! You’re basically getting three bags in one multipurpose, incredibly affordable backpack. 

The ALPS Mountaineering Red Tail also offers impeccable security. It’s equipped with an adjustable pull-forward waist belt, front lashing points, and a Spindrift collar with drawcord. This way, the bag will fit snugly over all body types.

What I Like

• ALPS Mountaineering Red Tail is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 4 lbs (1.8 kg).
• The pack comes with a 3L hydration reservoir, a 360° drink tube, and a dual cap, all of which are BPA and PVC-free.
• The interior is divided horizontally, keeping your items neatly separated.
• It’s suitable for casual hikers or professional backpackers as it’s available in two size options.

What I Dislike

• Its straps are less durable than the other backpacks on the list, though you can buy separate straps through the ALPS website if needed. 

4. Best Multipurpose: Salkan The Backpacker 75L

Salkan The Backpacker is the ultimate multipurpose option. It consists of two parts: the main bag and the daypack. Each bag is spacious enough on its own, and combining both gives you the ultimate hiking backpack.

While looking fashionable might be the last thing on your mind when hiking (or not, no judgment), the Backpacker has a pretty attractive design. 

The daypack capacity is a hefty 20L. Which means, it might even be your new go-to daily backpack.

The Backpacker might not have as many compartments as other hiking bags on our list. However, it makes up for it with five adjustable straps, so the bag can fit you like a glove.

That’s not the only function of the straps. You can also move two of the straps to the bottom of the bag and secure your sleeping bag, a tripod, or Salkan’s laundry bag to it, increasing the capacity even more. 

What I Like

• The Backpacker comes in customizable colors, numerous strap patterns, and accessories.
• The main backpack has easy top and front access.
• Both the main pack and the daypack have 15-inch laptop compartments.
• The backpack includes an integrated flight and rain cover.

What I Dislike

• The detachable day pack design can sometimes feel bulky and unstable.
• Its primary material is nylon, which isn’t sustainable or environmentally friendly.

5. Best for Hiking Trips:

You won’t have to worry about this backpack being too bulky or spending a lot of time fiddling with all the different adjustable straps with this bag. The comes in three different sizes for you to choose from.

Unlike other bags that have a removable daypack, it’s Osprey Aether AG’s top lid that converts into a 20L DayLid daypack. This results in a less bulky backpack and a cleaner design, perfect for those shorter hikes.

This means you can lessen the load by ditching the lid or the daypack if needs be. Yet, the backpack will still be as secure as ever due to the FlapJacket. This flap firmly covers the drawstring opening and cinches the bag, further compressing it.

What I Like

• Combined with the size options, Aether AG’s IsoForm 5 harness and CM hip belt provide superb fit and comfort.
• The backpack has a separate model, Ariel, that caters to women’s bodies and their center of gravity.
• It features Osprey’s Anti-gravity system, which contours tightly to your back and evenly distributes the bag’s load.
• The one-of-a-kind Stow-On-The-Go attachment helps you secure your trekking pole.

What I Dislike

• The daypack isn’t as comfortable as the other daypacks on the list.

6. Best Comfort: 

The is one of the top-rated packs for a reason. This is the perfect backpack for people looking for a lightweight alloy frame, without compromising the carrying capacity.

What sets this pack apart from regular backpacks is its front “shove-it” pocket. Surprisingly, this compact pocket can hold a huge load, and it’s easily accessible.

Like the Osprey Aether, this backpack has a detachable lid which can be used as a daypack, a unique Anti-gravity system, and loops for your trekking pole.

Unfortunately, there are only two size options for the Osprey Atmos AG. Although, Osprey also makes a women’s (or shorter frame) version, the Aura AG.

What I Like

• The pack is extremely comfortable since the sturdy internal metal frame transfers most of the weight to the hips.
• Despite its weight and compact size, the bag features plenty of pockets.
• Osprey Atmos AG’s suspended mesh back panel offers exceptional ventilation.
• You can easily access the inside of the pack due to the dual side zippers.

What I Dislike

• The pack has both sleeping bag straps and a sleeping pack compartment, taking away from the overall capacity.
• It’s pricier than other Osprey models.

7. Best Environmentally-Friendly: REI Co-Op Traverse 60

The REI Co-Op Traverse 60 is the quintessential backpack for the eco-conscious. This bag has everything you need, while still being functional, lightweight, and easy to use.

And at a solid price, this bag will be your forever backpack. It’s made of durable materials, and it’s pretty comfortable too. 

The Traverse backpack is great if you’re struggling with balance, but still want to haul large loads. Not only do the Packmod compression straps keep everything in place, but you can also adjust them to sculpt the bag to your liking.

The choices are endless with REI’s Traverse backpacks. You can choose between two attractive colors and numerous carrying capacities.

What I Like

• The backpack has plenty of pockets, including a whopping 10 exterior pockets, a hip belt, side pockets, and water bottle pockets.
• The internal frame is made of lightweight aluminum for maximum support and minimal added weight.
• It has an integrated rain cover that’s easily accessible through the side pocket.
• It’s the most eco-friendly option on the list, as it meets the bluesign standards.

What I Dislike

• The backpack can feel stuffy, as it doesn’t provide a lot of ventilation.
• Due to its durable design and thick material, this backpack is a little bulky.

8. Most Durable: Granite Gear Blaze 60

The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is one of the most versatile backpacks you can buy at an affordable price. The multi-compartmental bag has it all; hidden zippered pockets, huge side water pockets, stretchy mesh pockets, and an integrated daypack.

Adventurers don’t need to worry  about carrying heavy loads with the Granite Gear Blaze 60. The backpack is lightweight but spacious enough to carry all your travel essentials.

You can also remove the sternum belt, the lid, and the hip belt, to reduce the weight of the backpack. However, this will obviously affect the carrying capacity.

The travel backpack comes in a women’s model, which has short and regular options. It also has adjustable straps. So, the bag will comfortably fit you, regardless of your size and build.

What I Like

• Granite Gear Blaze is equipped with sturdy compression straps, allowing you to reshape and shrink the bag.
• The bag has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on both the body and the zippers.
• It’s one of the most affordable bags on the list.

What I Dislike

• The shoulder straps and hip belts are difficult to adjust.
• It has limited design and color options.

BUY THE GRANITE GEAR BLAZE 60

9. Most Versatile: Thule Guidepost Backpack

Though Thule is best known for its bike and roof racks, the Swedish brand also makes exceptional backpacks.

The Thule Guidepost has a TransHub suspension that reduces the weight load on your back. This way, the backpack is comfortable and safe.

The backpack is the ideal backpack for extended trips. One of the internal pockets is a PowerPocket, which neatly connects to the hip pocket. Just like that, you can charge your phone on the go.

This bag is also one of the most spacious backpacks on the list, carrying up to 75 liters. As for the daypack’s capacity, the lid is removable and transformable into a 28-liter daypack.

What I Like

• The hip belt comes with a weatherproof, removable top pocket.
• The backpack is unisex, as the pivoting hip belt and trans hub suspension contour to the wearer’s body.
• Thule offers an exceptional lifetime warranty on all backpacks and accessories.
• Thule is a sustainable brand that follows environmental, ILO, and OECD guidelines.

What I Dislike

• Though the hip belt is customisable, you’ll need to purchase the VersaClick accessories separately.
• The bag isn’t suitable for shorter torsos.

BUY THE THULE GUIDEPOST BACKPACKING PACK

10. Most Breathable:

The is the perfect pack for heavy haulers. The traveling pack comes in three different sizes, and all of them have ample carrying capacities.

The compartments aren’t just huge, they’re also flawlessly organised. You get eight exterior zippers, with Gregory’s CustomGrip pullers, and two large angled holsters for water bottles.

The day pack is also quite spacious. 

Since you’ll be keeping all your belongings in the pack, you need to ensure they’re safe. Fortunately, the pack is made from durable nylon and comes with a custom-fitted rain cover. 

The side hydration sleeve can double as a roomy daypack with a shoulder harness and extra pockets.

What I Like

• Gregory Baltoro provides easy access to the internal compartments through the U-shaped front zip.
• This pack offers superb ventilation due to the 360 FreeFlow mesh panels and thinner padding in the middle of the back.
• The shoulder harness features a unique sunglass QuickStow system.
• The torso, hips, and shoulders are highly adjustable.

What I Dislike

• The daypack has plenty of space but it’s impractical and uncomfortable for everyday use.
• The hip belt pockets are too small for cameras and larger phones.

11. Best Travel Backpack: 

If you’re looking for the best budget backpacks, Decathlon Forclaz Travel 500 might be the perfect backpack for you. Although the pack is affordable, it’s still sturdy and spacious.

The isn’t exactly suitable for hiking. Instead, this travel bag is great for extended trips. It can fit up to 60 liters while being compact enough to store in the overhead compartment.

What cements this backpack’s status as the ultimate backpack for traveling is that it complies with most airlines’ cabin standards. It also has internal organizational features and a separate shoe compartment, so you can neatly pack your clothes.

The top easily comes off to create a style shoulder bag that can be used as a daypack. It’s a smaller bag than some of the other detachable bags, but would be absolutely fine for a short hike or quick day trip. 

What I Like

• Decathlon Forclaz Travel 500 has lockable zippers, which provide great security.
• The internal compartment has easy access due to the suitcase-style opening.
• It includes a 15-inch laptop compartment.
• The pack has a distinct removable shoulder daypack.

What I Dislike

• The pack’s external pockets are too small.
• Neither the hip belt nor the shoulder straps are adjustable enough.

The Final Verdict

Whether you’re looking for a comfortable backpack or a multipurpose travel bag, investing in a high-quality backpack with a detachable daypack is a must.

Make sure when choosing a backpack that the pack isn’t too heavy. And, the material should be robust, waterproof, and breathable.

If you’re looking for an all-rounder bag, you can’t go wrong with Deuter Aviant Voyager. In contrast, if functionality is what you’re looking for, Salkan The Backpacker is a great two-in-one bag. As for comfort, ALPS Mountaineering Red Tail is the lightest bag, while the is perfect if you don’t have a huge budget. 

Simply put, choosing the best backpack with detachable daypack firstly depends on your travel style, backpack needs and personal preferences. Feel free to take inspiration from the above so you can understand your own needs before buying your new backpack.