Evaluating the Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack: A Comprehensive Overview
Osprey Daylite Plus and Updated Daylite: A Comparative Analysis
The Osprey Daylite Plus and the updated Daylite are two popular daypacks from Osprey's entry-level collection, each catering to different needs and preferences.
The Osprey Daylite Plus is a budget-friendly, versatile daypack, renowned for its tough construction and compatibility with other Osprey backpacks. It is made with 600-denier and 300D nylon, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. The pack weighs 1 pound 4.6 ounces and costs $70.
The Daylite Plus offers a good amount of storage and capacity, with features such as a slotted foam back covered in mesh for ventilation, dual water bottle pockets, a whistle on the shoulder strap, and compatibility with Osprey hydration reservoirs. It can connect to the front of a variety of Osprey's larger models via attachment points at the waist and shoulders.
However, it lacks some features found in the updated Daylite, such as Osprey's LidLock bike helmet attachment system or a spot to stash trekking poles or carry an ice axe.
On the other hand, the updated Osprey Daylite has been redesigned to incorporate PFC-free DWR coatings, recycled materials, and bluesign-approved fabrics, aligning with Osprey's commitment to sustainability. The pack now has an expandable main compartment, improving packing capacity from 26L to 32L when expanded, and includes organizational features such as dedicated sleeves (e.g., for laptops).
The updated Daylite remains lightweight but has added capacity and expansion features, which can increase its weight slightly compared to the Daylite Plus. Despite the additional features, the updated Daylite still remains budget-friendly compared to larger technical packs.
In terms of cost, the Daylite Plus is generally positioned as a more affordable and straightforward daypack option, while the updated Daylite, with its newer materials and features like expansion and better organizational elements, is likely to come at a slightly higher price point.
The Daylite series from Osprey now incorporates PFC-free DWR coatings, recycled materials, and bluesign-approved fabrics, setting a high standard for sustainability in their daypacks.
Competitors such as the REI Co-op Flash 22, the Deuter Speed Lite 20, and the Talon 22 from Osprey's own lineup offer alternatives with different trade-offs in terms of weight, durability, features, and cost. However, the Daylite Plus and the updated Daylite stand out for their balance of affordability, functionality, and sustainability.
In summary, the Daylite Plus focuses on lightweight versatility with useful outdoor features and compatibility with other Osprey packs, while the updated Daylite adds storage capacity, expandable volume, and better organization for travel without sacrificing lightness. The Plus might be more rugged for hiking, whereas the updated Daylite leans toward minimalist travel utility. Cost differences are moderate, with the newest Daylite typically costing a bit more due to its added features.
- When venturing into both hiking and minimalist travel, the Daylite Plus and updated Daylite from Osprey's entry-level collection are excellent daypack options, as they cater to different requirements.
- To enhance sustainability, the updated Osprey Daylite incorporates PFC-free DWR coatings, recycled materials, and bluesign-approved fabrics, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly daypacks.
- For sports enthusiasts who engage in activities such as backpacking, trekking, or travel, the Daylite Plus and updated Daylite come with appropriate storage solutions and capacity—daypacks can be secured on the front of larger Osprey models via attachment points, while the updated Daylite includes a dedicated laptop sleeve for better organization.
