This is on my gift list. Any recommendations are appreciated. Day use mountain hiking.

I got the 5.11 skyweight 24L for day hiking and skiing and took the waist belt off. Pretty happy so far. Light, comfortable, cinches down real small and you don't look like a mall ninja

Talon 11 Pack - Men's I like this one. I use it all the time.

I have a REI Trail 40 that I use a ton unless I'm wearing our baby backpack.

https://www.rei.com/product/227956/rei-co-op-trail-40-pack-mens

(kids: https://www.rei.com/product/147417/deuter-kid-comfort-child-carrier)

Former US Marine so I use a USMC Issued FILBE Pack. You can find them online used & also at Army/Navy stores if your not prior military.

This is my go to pack, unless I am hunting.

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For me the daypack has to be light. I'm packing some essentials, a little water, snacks, and a jacket. I carry a camera. I want tight to the torso and secure with a chest and waist straps. After that, it is about other features. I like a smaller pocket up top for personal items. Then a bigger pocket. I want realtively water resistent. I don't want a huge pack.

Of course I have a bunch of options for different needs sizes.

I've been using the Osprey Talon 22 for the last 3 or 4 years and will probably buy another when it finally gives out

Check out hill people gear. I've got a couple of their day packs. Very light, modular, rock solid build. Their chest packs are a great compliment to the day pack or larger packs for things like map/licenses, your ccw, and anything you need but don't want to take off your pack.

I have an Osprey Nebula that I like. Lots of room and two water bottle holders. Padded for my I pad.