Top 5 Lightweight Hiking Backpacks for Women: Your Ultimate Guide for Casual Hiking in Canada 2026

“The REI Flash 55 is a highly configurable, ultralight backpacking pack that weighs 2 lbs 13 oz but can be stripped down to 2 lbs 5.6 oz by removing several optional components.”

“The REI Flash 55 is a cleverly designed pack that allows you to personalize the feature set. This model is an excellent choice for a diverse range of users. For being such a lightweight pack, we were surprised by how comfortably it carries a backpacking load.”

“The Flash 55 threads the needle between a stripped-down ultralight pack and a feature-rich heavy hauler — the weight savings don’t compromise function or convenience.”

“Price: $229Weight: 2 lb. 13 oz. (men’s medium)Fabric: Robic nylon (100D & 210D)Capacity: 55LWhat we like: Lightweight, carries a moderate load comfortably, and practical storage at a standout price.What we don’t: Noisy shoulder straps; thin pack body requires some care...”

“I thought the REI Flash 55 was incredibly comfortable on the hip and shoulders. I gathered that from the moment I put this fully loaded pack on, but was most impressed after hiking 12 miles in the heat of Southern Arizona. I finished the trek and still felt pretty fresh.”

“In short: The new Flash 55 isn’t complex, but I also wouldn’t describe it as simple. The REI design team set out to make a pack that was modular: The hip pockets, shoulder pocket, side straps, hip belt, and top brain are all easy to detach and customize to fit your needs and...”

“Even before its major re-launch in 2016, the REI brand had developed a reputation for high-quality gear at entry level prices, and that doesn’t change with the men’s Flash 55 backpack.”

“Abigail’s Take: A great companion for overnight trips and ultralight thru-hikes alike. Its materials are recycled, lightweight, water-resistant, and durable. Plus, a custom-like fit provides unparalleled comfort.”

“Unboxing the Arc’teryx Bora 65, the initial impression is one of impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. The backpack arrives neatly packaged, with all the components – including the removable top lid, compression straps, and hip belt – organized and easily accessible.”

“Exceptional comfort due to the innovative hip belt and adjustable suspension”

“At just a few ounces over three pounds, with the support and comfort to carry more than 40 pounds, and a smart design that allows it to carry any size load well, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 has emerged as a leading all-purpose, quiver-of-one pack for trips of any length.”

“The Blaze 60 is a well-priced backpack that's lightweight and comfortable, even when you're carrying lots of gear. Not only is it a solid workhorse of a bag, but it also has a great set of functional features.”

“This isn't about the lightest pack on the shelf, it's about the quietest carry on trail. When your breathing stays steady and your ankles track true on scree slopes, you've found objective fit. That's the only metric that matters when fatigue hits mile 12 at 35lb.”

“The pack has a long stretch pocket on the front which is great for a wet tent or wet waterproofs. The side pockets aren’t stretchy but they are roomy and have stretch drawcord closures. The lid pocket is roomy too and the lid can be detached.”

“Price: $300Weight: 3 lbs. (women's regular)Fabric: Robic nylon (100D & 210D)Capacity: 60LWhat we like: Excellent mix of carrying comfort, organization, and weight.What we don’t: Limited back ventilation; takes time to dial in the fit.See the Women's Granite Gear Blaze 60 See...”

“Choosing the right pack requires balancing these technical specs with your personal hiking style. While the Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition.”

“This is not my first rodeo with Granite Gear and their amazing products. In fact I have already professed my love for the older version of the Blaze 60 in a past review found here: http://ireviewgear.com/backpacks/granitegear-blaze-a-c-60-backpack-review/”

“After several months of use, including a week-long trip on the Teton Crest Trail, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 Backpack – Men’s continues to impress. I’ve bushwhacked through thickets, scraped against granite walls, and endured a few unexpected downpours.”

“Deep front pocket for wet gear, tent poles, etc.”

“The Blaze 60 has three tiers of compression straps on both sides of the pack. These can be used to reduce pack volume when you are carrying smaller or lighter loads. All three of the side webbing straps open and close with side release buckles, which you squeeze together to open.”

“Past competitors have proven that low pack weights often correlate to lackluster load support or short lifespans. The Blaze upends such conventions, maximizing efficiency on trail without compromise. Off route, its compact profile packs conveniently into any vehicle or storage.”

“It is fairly easy to adjust the torso size, and the inches are clearly marked to make it easier to get the right size. To change the torso length, there is a flat metal plate on the end of the shoulder strap at the top. This slides through the openings in the frame sheet.”