You can go lighter and cheaper at this capacity with a streamlined pack like the REI Flash, but that comes with compromises in carrying comfort and durability. So, as far as the Osprey Daylite Plus vs Talon 22 debate goes, we prefer the Osprey Daylite but ultimately they are for different purposes.

Osprey Daylite Plus | Large Backpack |Everyday|Osprey Europe

Above both backpacks are pictured with the same exact pack-out of a 13” laptop, light jacket, small notebook, tech case and large headphones. We proudly stand behind this guarantee, so much so that it bears the signature of company founder and head designer, Mike Pfotenhauer.You get an internal sleeve for carrying a water bladder (not included) or small laptop/tablet (up to 15 in. And every year, gear manufacturers come out with the latest and greatest technologies, which feature thinner and more. Internally, the Osprey Daylite offers a modest 13 liters of packing room while the Daylite Plus gives you 20 liters plus an additional front shove-it pocket (more on this below). Speaking of weight, another compliment our team gave on the pack as that the weight distribution was also great which really added to the carry comfort of the back. The compression straps have to be unclipped first, which is a bit of a pain, but you get used to it.

Osprey Daylite Plus 20L Daysack | Blacks Osprey Daylite Plus 20L Daysack | Blacks

Every traveler knows that having a good daypack along on your backpacking adventure is VERY important. Stacked up against the Daylite Plus, the REI is even more pared-down with minimally padded shoulder straps and a similar webbing hipbelt, a lighter-weight build (13 oz. I also line up the Osprey Daylite Plus’s competition so you can get a feel for your other daypack options. The Daylite Plus shines on its own for daily needs and adventures, as well as continuing to meet the needs of travellers in need of additional carry options.

Given the latest version’s beefier fabrics—plus the fact that Osprey is one of the best pack makers in the business—I have no qualms about long-term durability. That said, with a panel-loading design, it would be easy to use a lightweight pack liner drybag in wet conditions.