Review of the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack

Caroline Whatley at the beach testing out the Backcountry 22L Lightweight pack

Features of the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack

Looking to upgrade your old pack to something new and lightweight? Then read on to check out our review of the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack. It comes in three different colors and is great for anyone looking for a versatile pack that can be used for short day hikes, school or work.

Weight and Colors

This lightweight, minimalist hiking backpack comes in at only 1 pound and comes in three colors: Paprika Red, Black Camo and Legion Blue.

Photo of the top view of the Backcountry 22L Daypack
The Backcountry 22L pack in Paprika Red.

Storage

If you read our recent review on the CamelBak Pivot Roll Top Backpack you may remember where we discussed the storage capacity of backpacks. Packs like this one, the Backcountry Lightweight 22L (1343 cubic inches) Pack, are best suited for a short half-day hike or day hike where you don’t need a ton of space to carry gear.

Material

The Backcountry Lightweight 22L pack is made up of two types of materials. The face fabric is made up of 75D PU ripstop and is a lightweight, durable material that’s resistant to snagging. The bottom panel is made up of 600D Oxford poly and is a tad thicker than the 75D PU ripstop and makes for a good base to the pack. In other words, you don’t have to worry that your pack is going to rip if you set it down on jagged rocks or stones.

Pockets

Photo of the Backcountry 22L Daypack
The top pocket of the Backcountry 22L pack.

Internal Pocket

This lightweight backpack is essentially one main compartment with a dedicated internal sleeve that can be used for storing a hydration bladder (or a tablet, laptop or notebook). The main compartment is secured with both an internal cinch closure as well as a lid with a clasp. Combined, this keeps the dirt and grit out of your pack and allows for easy access.

Backcountry 22L Daypack
Keep valuables secure and dirt and grit out of this pack.

External Pocket

There is one external pocket on the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack. It is located on the lid of the pack. It’s a great place to store smaller, miscellaneous items such as keys, wallet, granola bars, etc. without having to dig through the pack.

Backcountry 22L Daypack
The main compartment of this pack holds enough gear for most short hikes and commutes.

Straps

The shoulder straps are both padded and adjustable. They’re also breathable which is a bonus since we do a good bit of warm and hot weather hiking. We also really like the colorful loops on the straps for aesthetic reasons but also because they’re practical. You can clip your carabiner with your keys to them or attach a small water bottle there as well.

The Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack also has a sternum strap that can be adjusted up or down by a few inches, depending on what’s comfortable for you. In addition, this pack has an adjustable waist belt that offers additional support when carrying heavier loads.

Breathable

Backcountry 22L Daypack
This pack delivers on breathability with it’s mesh straps and back.

In addition to the straps being breathable, so is the back panel. This is a nice feature when considering a minimalist, lightweight backpack for day hikes in that it will help you stay comfortable for the duration of your trek.

Gear Loops

There are several spots on the bag that are designed so that you can carry additional gear. There’s a daisy chain on the front as well as loops on the shoulder straps. In addition, there are two loops for trekking poles.

Where to Buy the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack

This pack comes in three colors: Paprika Red, Black Camo and Legion Blue and is sold exclusively on Backcountry.com.

Review of the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack Recap

We’ve enjoyed this lightweight, minimalist day pack on hiking adventures as well as urban adventures. The dedicated hydration bladder sleeve doubles as a great place to stow your laptop, tablet or notebook apart from your other gear. Overall, this is one of the best lightweight backpacks available.

Have a question about our review of the Backcountry Lightweight 22L Pack? Ask it or leave a comment below!

Looking for a slightly smaller backpack? Check out our review of the CamelBak Pivot Roll Top Backpack.

Want a bigger backpack that can be used for day hikes and school or work? Check out our review of the Backcountry 27L Daypack.

Published by Erin McGrady

Erin McGrady is a filmmaker, photographer, and writer exploring Asheville and beyond. My work focuses on sharing about LGBTQ safe spaces, camper van life, and the outdoors.

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