My review of the Osprey Daylite 26+6L backpack

Last year, I set out to find the ultimate everyday backpack. Little did I know I'd fall down such a rabbit hole of research for what seemed like a fairly mundane object.

Because finding the perfect backpack is harder than it looks. The market is huge, and many bags are very (very) similar to one another. That said, even minor differences can make a bag far better suited to certain activities. Hiking bags, for example, tend to prioritize comfort, while travel bags lean toward practicality.

It's not easy to navigate, especially when you're looking for a bag that sits at the intersection of several use cases.

Anyway, after hours of research, the Osprey Daylite 26+6L seemed to tick all the boxes. Here's my review after just over 9 months of use.

Specs

• Brand: Osprey
• Name: Daylite™ Expandable Travel Pack 26+6
• Type: Everyday backpack
• Weight: 840g
• Dimensions: 43H x 33W x 16D cm
• Price: €100
• Material: 100% recycled 300D ripstop polyester, PFAS-free DWR treatment
• Volume: 26 to 32L

Pros and cons

Why I chose it

My main selection criterion was versatility.

I needed a bag I could use every day — to go to the gym or run errands — without looking like I was heading out on a three-day trek.

At the same time, I wanted to occasionally go on a day hike. That meant I needed comfortable shoulder straps under load, and decent back ventilation to manage sweat.

But it also had to be lightweight and compact enough to fit as carry-on luggage, while still being spacious enough to hold everything I need for a weekend away. I also wanted something sturdy, since most of my previous ultralight bags had a tendency to tear after barely a year of use — without me feeling like I was being rough with them.

I also needed a laptop compartment, since I often carry my computer for work and don't have a proper protective sleeve (I use bubble wrap instead — lighter, more on that another time).

Finally, I was really looking for a discreet, go-anywhere bag in terms of aesthetics. As I said, I didn't want to look like a hiker in the city, but I also wanted to avoid the style of certain urban bags — very sleek and smooth — which I find not very functional, and which practically scream: "I've got a €3,000 MacBook Pro in here."

The Osprey Daylite 26+6L seemed to check all those boxes.

My real-world use

I bought the bag in July 2025. That's 9 months of daily use, so I can start to assess whether it delivers on its promises.

First off, I haven't had the chance to hike with it yet, but I've carried it fully loaded several times and can confirm it stays comfortable despite the weight. I also haven't flown with it, but based on my research, it should fit as personal item on most airlines.

I haven't used it in heavy rain either, but in light rain — without spending hours outside — it seemed to hold up well against water.

What I do use it for every day is going to the gym. I have plenty of room for all my gear (shoes, towel, water bottle, workout clothes…) while staying in 26L mode.

Speaking of water bottles: there are two side pockets on either side of the bag. My 750ml bottle fits easily, and I think a 1L bottle would work fine too.

I also use it for grocery runs — I usually bring a tote bag as well, but it's handy to offload some weight onto my back and free up my hands.

I've also taken it on several weekend trips, and I have to say it's become a real favorite. Packing a 40L bag for a few days away is overkill — there just isn't that much to bring. And I find it much easier to have a smaller bag I can keep at my feet in a carpool or on a train. In 32L mode, I managed to fit everything I needed for a ski weekend, including a pair of sport shoes and a sleeping bag. And even at 32L, the bag stays impressively compact and easy to carry.

I had also added some elastic cords to the front of the bag, thinking I might need to attach my jacket on the outside if I ran out of space — but I haven't needed them yet.

Finally, I regularly carry my laptop inside for work, and I'm happy with that too. The compartment isn't super thick, but with my bubble wrap it feels like enough protection against shocks. Plus, the sleeve is suspended, so the laptop stays protected even if you set the bag down hard. My laptop is a 13-inch MacBook Air, but the compartment apparently fits up to 16-inch models.

What I love

• The clamshell opening — incredibly practical for getting to something at the bottom without unpacking everything.
• The materials are tough: after 9 months of daily use, not a single sign of wear.
• It's lightweight — 840g empty. Some bags can get down to around 700g or less, but you usually sacrifice some durability and/or practicality.
• Great organization: 2 small front pockets for keys, a wallet, or other small items. 2 side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella. One large main compartment with a laptop sleeve. And a mesh-lined section, perfect for dirty laundry for example. Just enough storage without overdoing it.
• It's discreet — I got mine in black, which goes with everything. It also comes in brighter colors if that's your thing.
• The price is very fair for such a versatile bag that should last you years.
• It has handles on 3 sides, which is great for carrying it by hand in whatever orientation you prefer. Holding it sideways, for instance, keeps the straps off the ground.

What I like less

I don't have many complaints about this bag, but a few things stand out:

• The laptop compartment could be thicker, and ideally cover the laptop completely. Right now it leaves about a quarter of the laptop exposed, so you need to be mindful of what you put in the main compartment nearby.
• A small hidden pocket for a wallet or passport would be a great addition. The front pockets are easy pickings for thieves — though I've never had a problem, for the record.
• The style might be a bit too "urban." I think it's mainly due to its rectangular shape, but I'm not sure you can do much better at this volume.

Who is this bag for?

It's the perfect bag for minimalists who want a single backpack for all their activities.

It's also ideal for frequent travelers — it was designed with air travel in mind, but it works great with any mode of transport.

On the other hand, if you're specifically looking for a hiking bag, this probably isn't the best option.

My verdict

The problem with versatile gear is that it often ends up being "mediocre at everything, great at nothing."

I think the Daylite 26+6L manages to find a genuinely excellent balance — it performs well across a wide range of categories. Versatile, durable, lightweight, compact, roomy, fairly priced, practical to use…

Even with a few areas for improvement, it fully meets my expectations, and I plan on keeping it for many years to come!