When I need a versatile backpack for both carry-on and day hikes, I try not to go too large. I don’t need to bring absolutely everything, just the essentials and perhaps a comfort item or two. As I’ve shared before, I’ve honed my gear collection over the years so I have only my key favorites in the categories I need. That way, I don’t need a lot of room to store them, and I can travel at the last minute without getting stressed.
The all-new Gregory Kiro series is a performance daypack with three sizes—20 liter, 24 liter, and 28 liter—and it’s one of the new additions to my collection. The 24-liter streamlined pack has enough room for what I need, but doesn’t make me ditch an item.
The pack has a zippered main access with custom molded ring pullers, an internal hydration sleeve with a SpeedClip hydration hanger (compatible with Gregory’s Hydro reservoirs), a front durable stretch mesh pocket, side access stretch mesh water bottle pocket, a zippered side pocket for secure storage, and a top zippered trail access pocket. There’s also a low-profile trekking pole attachment with top and bottom elastic cording.
One of my favorite elements of the Kiro pack is the CloudControl hipbelt. Made with soft, flexing fabric, it feels more like a comfortable belt than your typical hipbelt.
The perforated, 3D-foam back panel has gradient printed mesh and provides breathable comfort, whether you’re carrying the pack through an airport or on a trail. The wrap-over shoulder harness has a connected yoke design and sternum strap with an integrated safety whistle. I’ve never needed to use one of these whistles while traveling, but I’m glad that I have one close at hand, just in case.
Get the Kiro pack in lava red, legion blue, or alpine black in 20-liter ($99.95), 24-liter ($109.95), or 28-liter ($119.95) versions. The Gregory Hydro reservoir (for easy hydration while you’re on the trail) is not included, but they come in 2-liter ($42.95) and 3-liter ($44.95) sizes.