The Osprey Daylite Backpack and Daylite Plus version are both simple, yet uncomplicated daypacks that offer versatile organisation in a high-quality package. They are designed with functionality and minimalism in mind to suit all kinds of uses.
From heading on a hike, to carrying your runners from work to the gym, both are ideal sizes for packing the essentials. While both are extremely similar, the Daylite Plus offers that little bit more with a larger capacity.
It comes with some additional features in the same sleek and compact design. They both have quite an outdoorsy aesthetic to them, which also makes them so versatile. Plus, there are ten interesting colors to choose from.
To help you differentiate the two, we’ve created this comprehensive review. We cover our favorite features, do a deep dive on all the details, and answer the important questions.
Of course failing this, you can always check out the Daylite Sling and the largest of the line, the Daylite Travel, if you prefer something bigger. You can always look at our extensive guide to travel backpacks on our dedicated page if you want to consider all your options first.
Osprey Packs Daylite Reviews
The Standard Daylite Model
Our First Thoughts
From one of the most reliable brands on the market, we can instantly tell that the Daylite Series offers versatility, functionality, and simplicity all in one. It’s super lightweight, is comfortable to wear, and keeps organisation at the forefront with various storage options.
There really isn’t much bad to say about these bags. The only minor things we can think of is that there is no dedicated laptop compartment in the smaller version, and the colors combinations are a little loud when compared to the simplicity of the black and grey versions. But we don’t see these as deal-breakers.
The Plus is a larger model, with the same features at heart. It also has a few additional storage options due to the bigger capacity. Having reviewed the Farpoint and Fairview Series, we’re excited to take a look at this smaller series that offers a minimal approach to packing. We can see these being used as a carry on for planes, for a day at the farmers market, going on a hike, or even using it for the commute to and from work.
Important Specs at a Glance
Daylite Dimensions
| Capacity
13L |
Dimensions
18”H x 9”W x 9”D |
| Weight
0.45kg |
Price
$82.99+ |
| Materials
210D Nylon Oxford Double Diamond Ripstop 420D Pack Cloth 3D Mesh |
Best Use
Travel, Day Hikes |
Daylite Plus Dimesions
| Capacity
20L |
Dimensions
18“L x 10“W x 9“H |
| Weight
0.56kg |
Price
$90.99+ |
| Materials
210D Nylon Oxford Double Diamond Ripstop 420D Pack Cloth 3D Mesh |
Best Use
Travel, Day Hikes |
Overview of Features
Daylite
- Zippered Main Panel Access
- Integrated External Hydration Chamber
- Sternum Strap with Whistle
- Side Compression Belts
- Durable & Water-Resistant Nylon Construction
- Removable Padded Hip Belt
- Comfortable & Breathable Foam Back Panel
- Durable YKK Buckles & Zippers
- Side Mesh Pockets
Daylite Plus
- Zippered Main Panel Access
- Integrated External Hydration Chamber
- Sternum Strap with Whistle
- Side Compression Belts
- Durable & Water-Resistant Nylon Construction
- Removable Padded Hip Belt
- Comfortable & Breathable Foam Back Panel
- Durable YKK Buckles & Zippers
- Side Mesh Pockets
- Padded Laptop & Tablet Compartment
- Front Stash Pocket
What We Love – Top 3 Shared Features
As You Can See the Plus Model is Slightly More ‘Bloated’ Offering More Space
GOLD QUALITY – Durable Materials
The strong 210D nylon oxford fabric contributes to the durability of these packs. It’s a smart choice of fabric because it’s robust, yet lightweight and flexible. It’s also quite weatherproof, able to resist light to moderate amounts of moisture. We love the YKK zips, which is an industry leading brand of zippers from Japan. They are easy to pull and don’t snag.
SILVER FEATURE – Smart Storage
For a daypack, which are often smaller than regular travel backpacks, we appreciate how many storage choices you have. there are several internal pockets, as well as an extra external zippered pouch on the Plus edition. We like that there is plenty of room to load equipment into both sizes, and you could even still use packing cubes for further organisation.
BRONZE HIGHLIGHT – Breathable
The main thing you’ll probably notice when looking at these packs at first glance is how breathable they look. There are many mesh panels all throughout, especially on the back panel and shoulder straps. We love this feature because it prevents sweat build-up, which allows you to wear it for longer.
Main Overview – Breaking Down Every Detail
One Of My Personal Favorite Color Themes, Stone Grey
Materials & Weather Resistance
Like many packs from Osprey, this is made from 210D nylon oxford double diamond ripstop. Ripstop essentially means that it’s resistant against easy rips or tears. If there are small holes or scratches, this type of fabric will prevent the abrasion from increasing in size. 3D mesh covers the shoulder straps and wicks moisture away from the body, allowing you to wear it in different climates.
If You Look Closely You Can See the Water Resistant Design
Since the 420D pack cloth is on the bottom, it protects the bag from the roughest of surfaces. It’s purposefully placed in a high-stress and high-impact area, to increase its lifespan. Nylon and pack cloth (which is a type of polyester) are both water resistant. It will withstand moderate downpours and splashes, through quickly forming droplets that slide off instead of entering the pack.
Comfort Level
As mentioned before, the straps are lined with 3D mesh, which is thick and squishy. It feels nice against the shoulders, and lets you wear the pack for longer periods.
Smart Design Keeps Comfort Levels High
Another element of comfort is the massive foam back panel. It covers the entire rear section, plus it’s also lined with mesh. Since it’s so padded, it takes away a lot of the pressure, in conjunction with the accessory straps.
Straps
The sternum belt is an expected feature for this type of daypack, but it’s pretty impressive that they’ve considered to add a hip belt. We don’t usually expect this from a smaller backpack, but we think it’s a great idea to accommodate to different activities. If you’re doing more intense activities, like biking or rock-climbing, it keeps the pack nice and tight.
Connectors Keep Everything Tight and Secure
It’s not padded, but it’s removable so you can pop it inside a pocket when not in use, so it won’t dangle. Back to the shoulder straps, they are curved to prevent slippage and for a more conformed fit. They are fully adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit and relieve a lot of pressure from your back. Also, they have a built-in handle to pick it up in a rush.
Organisation
Onto the storage spaces, this is where the main differences show between the regular and the Plus. First, let’s talk about the regular version. It has stretchy mesh side pouches for bottles, an umbrella, or a tripod, and a quick-grab compartment at the front for smaller essentials. Going further you’ve got the main section, with an elastic sleeve for documents or books.
Depth is Surprising, Providing Enough Space for Your Travel and Trip Gear
You can put a small 13” laptop here, but it won’t be well protected. The Plus offers the same elements, with some add-ons. The side mesh pockets are much wider and can be compressed with some straps. There is also a large front stretch pouch designed to give some bonus space. The laptop sleeve is padded this time, with a buckle to keep it stable.
Added Features
Some other interesting features include a whistle incorporated into the chest strap, and an internal attachment clip for keys. The whistle is a great idea for emergencies in the wilderness, and the internal clip helps you keep track of keys that often end up at the very bottom of the bag.
Enough Space to Store a t Least a 13″ Laptop Safely
A sleeve between the rear panel and the back of the bag is designed for a hydration bladder. This is handy for those venturing outdoors, but won’t be of much use in urban environments. It is quite unnoticeable as it’s very well hidden, so it doesn’t stick out.
Most Asked Questions – We’ve Got You Covered
You Can Now Become a Walking Emoji with this Unique Eggplant Purple Color Theme
Can I add a hydration pack?
Yes, you can put a hydration bladder into both sizes. There is a hidden reservoir between the rear padding and the back of the main compartment. You can access it easily from the top of the packs.
Are Daylite Packs waterproof?
Each version is water resistant, not completely waterproof. In extremely heavy downpours, we recommend using a waterproof backpack cover to protect them and the contents from harsh conditions.
Can these be attached to other backpacks?
Both packs can be attached to larger packs from Osprey, like the Aether Ariel, Porter, Farpoint, Fairview, and the Volt Viva. Simply attach the front buckles of the Daylite bags to the front buckles on the larger packs, then cinch it down to make it secure.
Can I put my laptop inside?
In the smaller version, there is a pouch in the main compartment, but it won’t protect your laptop. Also, it would only fit one of about 13”, and it would be a tight fit. In the larger edition, there is a dedicated laptop/tablet section which is padded. You could try fitting a 15”, but again I think 13” is the best size.
Our Final Thoughts on the Daylite Pack Series
After looking at other models by Osprey, it’s fair to say these Daylite Packs don’t disappoint. We’re impressed by the high-quality at reasonable prices, across both the regular 13L Daylite and the 20L Plus. Even opting for the Daylite Sling or Daylite Travel is another option if these fail to impress.
Even though we don’t assume that these are designed to last a lifetime, the workmanship and quality materials are sure to make this last for a good amount of time. We love its practicality for travelling, comfortable harness system, and different storage options.
While its sporty aesthetic may not suit those with an urban taste, the assortment of colors provides a great variety.
