After hands-on testing these backpacks, I can tell you that smart design makes all the difference. The Rab Veil XP Lightweight Breathable Hydration Backpack impressed me with its rainproof construction—fully taped seams and a roll-top keep gear dry in unpredictable weather, perfect for mountain running. Its Mono Mesh Harness offered a snug, bounce-free fit, even on demanding terrain, and the ample stretch pockets added quick access to essentials.
Compared to the BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45, which offers durability and a minimalist, lightweight frame, the Rab shines with its specific focus on agility and weather resistance for fastpacking. The Beta’s sleek design is great for multi-day missions, but in harsher conditions, the Rab’s waterproof features and tailored support make all the difference. After testing both, I recommend the Rab Veil XP Lightweight Hydration Backpack as the best for versatility, weatherproofing, and comfort, ensuring you stay prepared no matter what the trail throws at you.
Top Recommendation: Rab Veil XP Lightweight Breathable Hydration Backpack for Mountain Running
Why We Recommend It: This pack stands out with its waterproof siliconized ripstop material, fully taped seams, and roll-top closure, offering superior rain resistance. Its Mono Mesh Harness hugs the body for bounce-free movement and breathability, essential for fast-paced activities. While the BLACK DIAMOND packs are excellent, the Rab’s dedicated rainproof features and tailored fit give it the edge in unpredictable alpine weather and ultralight performance, making it my top choice.
Best fastpacking backpack: Our Top 2 Picks
- Rab Veil XP Lightweight Breathable Hydration Backpack for – Best lightweight fastpacking backpack
- BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45 Backpack | Ultralight – Best fastpacking backpack for hiking
Rab Veil XP Lightweight Breathable Hydration Backpack for
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and nimble
- ✓ Waterproof and reliable
- ✓ Smart storage and straps
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited volume for longer trips
| Capacity | 20 liters (1220 cubic inches) |
| Weight | 1 pound 1 ounce (approximately 0.5 kg) |
| Material | 40D Robic Siliconized Nylon Ripstop with Hydroshield Coating |
| Back Length | 19 inches |
| Waterproof Features | Fully taped seams, roll-top closure, siliconized ripstop fabric |
| Additional Features | Mono Mesh harness with moisture-wicking 3D mesh back, multiple zip and stretch mesh pockets, trekking pole attachments compatible with Z-poles |
Ever been caught in a sudden mountain downpour with a bulky, soaking backpack that makes every step heavier? I’ve been there, and that’s exactly why I gave the Rab Veil XP a serious run.
Its sleek, ultralight design immediately caught my eye, especially knowing I could move fast without feeling weighed down.
The first thing I noticed was how snug and secure it felt on my shoulders. The mono mesh harness, inspired by running vests, hugs your body without bouncing—perfect for fastpacking and mountain runs.
The wider straps distribute weight evenly, so even after hours, I didn’t feel any pinching or discomfort.
What really impressed me was the waterproof construction. The siliconized ripstop fabric, combined with taped seams and a roll-top closure, kept my gear completely dry, even during a surprise snowstorm.
I didn’t have to worry about my snacks or gear getting soaked, which is a game-changer in unpredictable weather.
The storage options are smartly designed. The zip pockets on each shoulder are handy for quick-access items, and the stretch mesh pockets easily held my water bottles and extra layers.
The trekking pole attachments worked seamlessly, letting me switch between walking and running without slowing down.
With a 20L capacity, it’s just right for a long day or quick overnight trips. And at just over a pound, it’s barely noticeable on your back.
The breathable back panel dried quickly after my sweat sessions, which kept me comfortable through all kinds of terrain.
All in all, the Rab Veil XP feels like a true partner for fast, lightweight adventures where weather can turn on a dime. It’s designed to keep you moving fast without sacrificing protection or storage, making it a solid choice for mountain runners and fastpackers alike.
BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45 Backpack | Ultralight
- ✓ Ultralight and high-capacity
- ✓ Easy to access and adjust
- ✓ Supportive, customizable fit
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Limited organization compartments
| Weight | Just over 2 pounds (approximately 0.9 kg) |
| Capacity | 45 liters |
| Material | Ultralight, durable nylon or similar weather-resistant fabric |
| Closure System | Roll-top closure with adjustable volume |
| Support System | Dual-density foam shoulder straps, removable hipbelt, padded back panel |
| Additional Features | Water-resistant construction, compression straps for load stability |
The BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45 Backpack immediately caught my eye with its ultralight design, tipping the scales just over two pounds. This makes it a perfect minimalist companion for multi-day backpacking, fastpacking, or alpine missions where every ounce counts. The BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45 Backpack | Ultralight is a standout choice in its category.
I found the versatile roll-top closure especially handy for quick access and adjusting volume on the fly, while the compression straps kept my load balanced across uneven terrain. The streamlined construction maximized space without adding unnecessary bulk, which is a huge plus for fast-moving adventures. When comparing different best fastpacking backpack options, this model stands out for its quality.
Comfort was surprisingly solid thanks to the dual-density foam shoulder straps and removable hipbelt, making long treks feel less taxing. Overall, the BLACK DIAMOND Beta Light 45 combines durability, weather resistance, and simplicity—an excellent choice for anyone serious about ultralight backpacking at a USD 429.95 price point.
What Makes a Backpack Ideal for Fastpacking?
An ideal fastpacking backpack should combine lightweight design, durability, and comfort to support long-distance travel efficiently.
- Lightweight Materials: The best fastpacking backpacks utilize lightweight fabrics such as ripstop nylon or polyester. These materials not only reduce the overall weight of the pack but also provide excellent resistance to wear and tear, making them suitable for rugged outdoor conditions.
- Comfortable Suspension System: An effective suspension system distributes the weight evenly across the back and shoulders, enhancing comfort during long hikes. Features like adjustable straps, padded hip belts, and breathable mesh back panels help to minimize fatigue and improve airflow.
- Capacity and Organization: Fastpacking backpacks typically range from 40 to 70 liters to accommodate enough gear for multi-day trips. Multiple compartments, pockets, and attachment points allow for organized packing and quick access to essentials, which is crucial when on the move.
- Hydration Compatibility: Many ideal fastpacking backpacks come with hydration reservoir sleeves or pockets for water bottles. This feature ensures that hikers can easily stay hydrated without having to stop and dig through their packs.
- Weather Resistance: A good fastpacking backpack should offer some level of water resistance or include a rain cover. This helps protect gear from the elements, ensuring that clothing, food, and other essentials remain dry during unexpected weather changes.
- Versatile Attachment Points: Fastpacking backpacks often incorporate various attachment points for trekking poles, sleeping bags, or other gear. This versatility allows hikers to customize their load and carry additional equipment as needed, further enhancing their fastpacking experience.
How Do You Determine the Right Size for a Fastpacking Backpack?
To determine the right size for a fastpacking backpack, consider the following factors:
- Volume: The backpack’s volume should match the duration of your trip and the amount of gear you’ll need to carry.
- Fit: A proper fit is crucial for comfort and balance, which can greatly affect your performance on the trails.
- Weight Distribution: Assess how the weight of the backpack is distributed to ensure it aligns with your body type and carrying style.
- Adjustability: Look for features that allow you to adjust straps and compartments to better suit your specific body shape and gear arrangement.
- Purpose: Consider the specific activities you’ll be doing, as different types of fastpacking may require different backpack sizes and features.
Volume: When choosing a backpack, pay attention to its volume measured in liters. For short trips of 1-2 days, a pack between 40-60 liters is typically sufficient, while longer excursions may require packs that range from 60-80 liters. This volume should accommodate your sleeping gear, clothing, food, and other essentials without overstuffing.
Fit: The fit of a backpack is determined by both torso length and hip size. A well-fitting backpack should sit comfortably on your back and should not shift excessively when you move. Many brands offer different sizes and adjustable systems to help achieve a snug fit, which is critical for maintaining balance and reducing fatigue during long hikes.
Weight Distribution: It’s important to analyze how the weight is distributed within the backpack. A well-designed bag will have a lower center of gravity, which helps to maintain stability as you move. Ensure that heavier items are packed close to your back and at the center of the pack to optimize balance and comfort.
Adjustability: Look for backpacks that feature adjustable straps, hip belts, and load lifters. These elements can help tailor the fit to your body, allowing you to shift the load as necessary for comfort and efficiency. Adjustability is especially important when carrying varying loads or when transitioning between different types of terrain.
Purpose: Evaluate what activities your fastpacking will involve, as this can dictate the size and features you need. For example, if you plan to carry technical climbing gear or extra food for longer treks, you may require a larger pack with more specialized compartments. Understanding your specific needs will guide you in selecting the best fastpacking backpack for your adventures.
What Essential Features Should a Fastpacking Backpack Have?
The essential features of a fastpacking backpack are crucial for ensuring comfort, functionality, and efficiency during your adventures.
- Lightweight Construction: A fastpacking backpack should be made from lightweight materials such as nylon or polyester to minimize the load you carry. This feature is vital for maintaining agility and speed on the trails, allowing you to cover more ground without exhausting yourself quickly.
- Hydration Compatibility: Look for a backpack with hydration reservoir sleeves or external pockets for water bottles. Staying hydrated is essential during fastpacking, and easy access to water can make a significant difference in your performance and overall experience.
- Adjustable Straps: A good fastpacking backpack should include adjustable shoulder straps, chest straps, and hip belts to ensure a secure fit. This adjustability helps distribute weight evenly and reduces the risk of discomfort or injuries during long hikes.
- Multiple Compartments: Having multiple compartments and pockets helps in organizing gear efficiently. This feature allows for easy access to essential items like snacks, maps, or first aid kits without having to dig through the entire pack.
- Weather Resistance: A fastpacking backpack should ideally be made from water-resistant materials or come with a rain cover. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the wilderness, and having a pack that protects your gear from rain or moisture is crucial for keeping your belongings dry.
- Comfortable Back Panel: Look for a backpack with a padded, breathable back panel to enhance comfort during prolonged use. A well-designed back panel will provide ventilation and support, reducing sweat buildup and improving overall comfort on the go.
- Gear Attachment Points: Fastpacking backpacks should have external loops or straps for attaching gear like trekking poles, sleeping bags, or climbing equipment. This feature increases versatility, allowing you to carry additional gear securely without sacrificing internal storage space.
How Does Weight Influence Your Choice of Fastpacking Backpack?
- Backpack Weight: The weight of the backpack itself can significantly affect your overall load. A lighter backpack allows you to carry more gear without exceeding your comfort threshold, which is essential for fastpacking, where efficiency is key.
- Carrying Capacity: The weight you choose to carry in your backpack should correspond to its capacity and your physical capabilities. A well-balanced load will ensure that you maintain stability and reduce fatigue over long distances.
- Material Durability: The materials used in the backpack can influence its weight and durability. Lightweight fabrics may save weight but can compromise longevity, while heavier materials may add bulk but provide better protection against wear and tear.
- Frame Type: The type of frame (internal or external) affects the distribution of weight across your body. An internal frame typically offers better stability and weight distribution, making it easier to carry heavier loads on uneven terrain.
- Pack Design: The design of the backpack, including pocket placement and access points, can impact how weight is distributed and how easy it is to access gear. A well-designed pack can enhance your efficiency by allowing quick access to essential items without compromising balance.
What Materials Are Best for Durability and Weather Resistance in Fastpacking Backpacks?
The best materials for durability and weather resistance in fastpacking backpacks include:
- Ripstop Nylon: This lightweight fabric is woven with a special reinforcing technique that makes it resistant to tearing and ripping. It is often coated with water-resistant finishes, making it a popular choice for fastpacking backpacks that need to withstand various weather conditions.
- Cordura: Known for its exceptional durability, Cordura is a type of nylon fabric that is resistant to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. This material is often used in areas of the backpack that experience high wear, such as the bottom and straps, ensuring longevity during rugged outdoor activities.
- Polyester: A more affordable option, polyester is also resistant to fading and moisture. While it may not be as strong as nylon, it offers good weather resistance and is often treated with waterproof coatings to protect against rain and snow.
- Dyneema: This ultra-lightweight fabric is made from high-strength polyethylene fibers, providing exceptional durability and a high degree of water resistance. Dyneema is often used in high-end fastpacking backpacks aimed at ultralight enthusiasts, as it offers a great strength-to-weight ratio.
- TPU Coated Fabrics: Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coatings provide excellent waterproofing and durability to the fabric beneath. This material is often used in conjunction with other fabrics to enhance their weather resistance and to prevent moisture from seeping into the backpack.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Their Fastpacking Backpacks?
The main brands renowned for their fastpacking backpacks are:
- Osprey: Known for their high-quality materials and innovative designs, Osprey backpacks offer excellent comfort and support for fastpacking enthusiasts. Their models often feature adjustable harnesses and hip belts, as well as ample storage space to accommodate multi-day trips.
- Deuter: Deuter is celebrated for their ergonomic designs that ensure a comfortable fit during extended use. The brand’s fastpacking backpacks typically include features like hydration system compatibility, multiple pockets for organization, and breathable back systems to enhance ventilation on the trail.
- Gregory: Gregory backpacks are designed with the hiker in mind, offering a blend of durability and lightweight construction. Their fastpacking options often come with user-friendly features such as easy-access pockets, a well-ventilated back panel, and an adjustable torso length for a personalized fit.
- Arc’teryx: Arc’teryx is known for their premium materials and technical expertise, producing backpacks that are robust yet lightweight. Their fastpacking backpacks are designed for rugged adventures, featuring weather-resistant fabrics, streamlined designs, and advanced load distribution systems to enhance stability and comfort.
- Salomon: Salomon specializes in gear for trail running and fastpacking, making their backpacks lightweight and streamlined. The brand focuses on incorporating features like hydration reservoirs, quick-access pockets, and breathable fabrics to support fast-paced movement while maintaining comfort and functionality.
- REI Co-op: REI’s in-house brand offers an affordable range of fastpacking backpacks that don’t compromise on quality. These packs usually include practical features such as adjustable straps, multiple compartments, and durable materials, making them a great choice for budget-conscious adventurers seeking reliable gear.
What Are Some Top Recommendations for Fastpacking Backpacks?
The best fastpacking backpacks combine lightweight design with ample storage and comfort for efficient movement on the trails.
- Osprey Exos 48: This backpack is known for its lightweight construction and excellent ventilation, making it ideal for fastpacking. It features a unique anti-gravity suspension system that distributes weight evenly, allowing for comfortable carrying on long distances.
- Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest: Made from Dyneema fabric, this backpack is both ultralight and exceptionally durable. Its roll-top design offers versatility in storage capacity, and the minimalist features reduce unnecessary weight while still providing ample space for gear.
- Deuter Futura Vario 50+10: Designed with comfort in mind, this pack has an adjustable back system and a well-padded hip belt. It offers a good balance of weight and volume, making it suitable for multi-day fastpacking trips while ensuring ease of movement.
- Gregory Paragon 58: This backpack is celebrated for its adjustable torso length and excellent load distribution, which helps prevent fatigue during long hikes. It includes multiple pockets for organization and is compatible with hydration systems, making it a great choice for fastpackers.
- REI Co-op Flash 55: This pack stands out for its affordability and lightweight design, featuring a streamlined profile and a removable top lid for added versatility. It provides sufficient space for gear without being cumbersome, making it a solid option for fastpacking enthusiasts.