Whether you’re chasing a sunrise on a quiet trail or clocking record-setting miles, the right gear changes everything. At Light Hiking Gear (formerly AARN USA), we understand this.

That’s why when you come to us to shop day hiking packs, you get options designed to meet your pace, terrain, and goals, without the trade-offs. 

Ultralight hiking packs from AARN are redefining the hiking experience for many. These high-performance packs offer better balance, stability, and reduced fatigue, no matter the terrain. Whether you’re an alpine adventurer or a thru-hiker sworn to forests, there’s something here for you.

But before you begin to shop for day hiking packs, it’s worth weighing your options - let’s see what ours look like.

Redefining Comfort - The Aarn Hydro Light (12L-20L)

Most day hikers learn to live with discomfort: They push through shoulder strain and limited movement in exchange for carrying their essential gear. The AARN Hydro Light - one of our most popular day packs for hiking - challenges that compromise, setting a new standard for comfortable hiking.

The Hydro Light is a standout ultralight hiking pack.  It’s loaded with trail-focused features designed to give day hikers a balanced, body-hugging carry, boosting speed, stability, and freedom of movement. Its twin chest strap and wide elastic waist belt offer superior load stability. That lets you tap into your full range of motion far more easily.

Hydration is where it truly shines. It includes a dedicated hydration sleeve, built-in with a zip entry and exit port, making sure your momentum stays uninterrupted with seamless bladder use. What sets it apart, however, are the twin pockets on each shoulder strap. 

These are sized for 0.75-1-liter water bottles, giving hikers quick access without removing the pack - a handy feature on rough, high-step terrain.

If you're looking to shop day hiking packs that truly match how you move, the Hydro Light deserves a spot at the top of your list. It’s one of our most trusted and purchased ultralight packs, for good reason.

Aarn Little Llama 20L – Ultralight Design, Trail-Ready Function

Every hiker knows how small annoyances, like dehydration, trapped heat, or a bouncing pack, can ruin the vibe on a magical trail. With the right pack, like the Aarn Little Llama 20L, these distractions quickly fade into the background.

If you’re trying to shop for day hiking packs that support your hikes, there are few we can recommend more than this one. It focuses on fluid movement, on-the-go access, and all-day comfort. 

Its features help make each step more efficient while saving time. The lumbar-molding hipbelt reduces fatigue, while the zippered stretch pockets become ideal quick-access storage for your phones,  keys, or hydration reservoirs. It’s ultralight backpacking gear that helps you focus on what you came for: the hike. 

Thanks to the X-Flow back frame, the load stabilizes, removing any strain on your body, even when fully packed. Thanks to the suspended mesh panel, excess heat is an afterthought - the boosted airflow helps you keep cool on hot trails.

With smart storage, strong stability, and a form-fitting design that lets you move freely, the Little Llama is our go-to choice for customers who want to shop day hiking packs that solve real trail problems.

What Modern-Day Hiking Can Look Like

More hikers are refusing to settle for less on their hikes. When they go to buy ultralight packs, storage space isn’t the only priority anymore. 

Whether you hike insane miles every day or go out for casual strolls on local trails, the demand for comfortable & efficient backpacking solutions is increasing.

These packs are exactly that - they do more than help you carry the load. They help you move faster, sharper, and save more stamina with each step, helping you get the most out of your hikes. Our ultralight hiking backpacks are proof that your backpack can be a silent ally, not an additional strain to account for.

Shop Smart With Light Hiking Gear (Formerly AARN USA)

At Light Hiking Gear (Formerly AARN USA), we know what it’s like to be on your last legs on a hard hike, dragged down by backpacks that work against you. It’s why we stock backpacks that bring out the best in every kind of hiker.

You’ll find options for every kind of trail when you come to us to buy ultralight packs. Place your faith in us, and we’ll find a pack that makes each trail an immersive experience, not a race to the next stop.

Call us today to hike farther and move freer than you ever have before!