Introduction
Choosing the right ultralight backpack is one of the most important decisions for any backpacking trip. A good pack should balance weight, comfort, and durability, especially for multi-day hikes and long-distance trekking.
In this guide, we break down the best ultralight backpacks for backpacking in 2026, helping you find the right option based on your needs and hiking style.
Quick Picks
If you’re short on time, here are the top recommendations:
• Best Overall: Osprey Exos 58
• Best Comfort: Gregory Focal 58
• Best Ultralight Option: Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60
• Best Budget Option: Granite Gear Crown3 60
Comparison Table
| Backpack | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Osprey Exos 58 | ~1.18 kg | All-round performance |
| Gregory Focal 58 | ~1.16 kg | Comfort |
| Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 | ~900 g | Ultralight hiking |
| Granite Gear Crown3 60 | ~1.13 kg | Value |
| Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 | ~850 g | Minimalist setups |
Osprey Exos 58 — Best Overall Ultralight Backpack
The Osprey Exos 58 is one of the most popular ultralight backpacks due to its excellent balance between weight and comfort. Its ventilated back panel and supportive frame make it suitable for long-distance hiking.
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Excellent ventilation
• Reliable performance
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Gregory Focal 58 — Best for Comfort
The Gregory Focal 58 provides excellent load support and comfort while still maintaining a lightweight design. It is a great choice for hikers carrying moderate loads.
• Strong suspension system
• Comfortable for long trips
• Good durability
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Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 — Best Ultralight Option
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is a favourite among ultralight hikers due to its lightweight design and excellent storage options.
• Very lightweight
• Great pocket organisation
• Ideal for long-distance hikes
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Granite Gear Crown3 60 — Best Value
The Granite Gear Crown3 60 offers excellent value, combining lightweight performance with affordability.
• Affordable and lightweight
• Good load support
• Strong all-round performance
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Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 — Best for Minimalists
The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is designed for hikers who want a compact and lightweight pack for minimalist setups.
• Lightweight and compact
• Great for lighter loads
• Efficient design
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How to Choose an Ultralight Backpack
When selecting a backpack, consider:
• Weight: Important for long-distance hiking
• Capacity: Match to trip length and gear
• Comfort: Suspension and fit matter
• Durability: Lightweight materials require care
Conclusion
The best ultralight backpack depends on your priorities. The Osprey Exos 58 offers the best overall balance, while the Mariposa 60 is ideal for ultralight hikers. For comfort, the Gregory Focal 58 stands out, and the Crown3 60 provides excellent value.
Check out a one-to-one comparison:
Osprey Exos 58 vs Gregory Focal 58