Tested: Exped Summit Lite 25 Backpack

When the outdoor gurus over at Exped first sent this pack I was skeptical. It’s not a riding backpack, so what good is it to me? I tossed it in the top case when departing for a long weekend, and a few days later it was one of my favorite riding accessories.

The “25” in the name refers to the 25 liters of storage the pack offers, most of which is in the main compartment accessible via the generous flap that zips open at the top. A small, zippered internal pocket is perfect for glasses, sunscreen, or snacks. A spandex pouch on the outside of the pack cradles a large water bottle easily.

The Summit Lite is surprisingly comfortable, even when it’s full, with nicely padded shoulder straps and auxiliary bands that buckle around your chest and hips to keep the pack in place. It’s made of 100-denier ripstop nylon, which Exped says is “water repellant,” so don’t expect your stuff to stay dry if you drop it in a puddle.

It is, however, amazingly light—just less than 10 ounces. The Summit Lite’s best trick is stuffing into itself and zipping shut, taking up about as much room as a pair of gloves in your luggage or in the internal pocket of your jacket. When you get where you’re going it’s spacious enough to carry a bundle of your gear or snacks and water, whether you’re hiking from your campground at a national park or wandering around a racetrack to spectate.

Price: $49
Contact: exped.com

Verdict: A little pricey but a superb travel companion.