I usually recommend something in the 55-65L range for multi-day backpacking trips and the 45L for overnight trips. The Mystery Ranch Bridger 35L backpack is strictly a daypack. Now, obviously daypacks can be much smaller than this if the conditions and personal goals align appropriately.
The Bridger 35 is well-suited to folks looking to carry a little extra weight. For example, I'm a photographer, and so I need a lot more volume and load capacity on my day trips. Because this pack has a relatively long torso, it is able to stow things like tripods, trekking poles, or fishing gear. Trying to anchor tall items on a shorter bag usually just ends up in a lot of awkward tipping that will drive you crazy as the miles pass.
Is the Bridger 35L Comfortable?
The Bridger 35L pack was comfortable because it is highly adjustable. Being a daypack, the Bridger 35 forgoes the sleeping bag compartment, bottom loop straps, and front pocket in favor of weight savings. What it does keep is the adjustable yoke, running vest chest unit, gear loops/attachment points, and double zip flay pocket. This makes the Bridger 35 perfect for climbers, anglers, photographers, and the outdoor enthusiast carrying extra weight.
One feature that still exists, but with a dialed back approach, is the top lip pocket. The Bridger 35 opts for a straight-zipped, envelope-style pocket instead of a horseshoe shaped zipper that opens up to a bigger volume pocket.
I actually prefer this design because it still allows me to stow several quick-access essentials in there, but it doesn't inadvertently turn into a leftover junk pocket from which things spill out every time I go to grab something. I would totally support Mystery Ranch changing all the top loaders to the 35-style.
The Bridger 35 retails for $289 (USD) and weighs 3.7 pounds. The same weight and price dynamics that we discussed with the 45 do come into play here. But also transferring over from that conversation is the emphasis on durability, comfort, unique features, and overall comfort.
Bridger 35L Day Hike Pack For You?
Are you experienced in the outdoors and know what you want? You are someone who likes to throw some extracurricular adventures/hobbies in and on the pack. You are not afraid to spend a little more on a day hiking pack because you are looking for comfort and fit. Look no further for your next backpack, check out the Bridger 35 here!
Mystery Ranch continues to knock it out of the park with their Bridger backpacks. I'm a satisfied user of the Bridger 65 and 55 and now I'm stoked to use the Bridger 35 and 45 on my shorter excursions. I now have an amazing selection of Bridger backpacks to use hiking.
For more information on the larger options, check out my Bridger 65L Backpack Review, Bridger 55L Backpack Review, and Kristi's Women's Bridger 55L Backpack Review. And for more content on all kinds of gear and best-practices in the outdoors, head on over to BackpackingTV.
Gear used in this review includes:
Backpacks: Bridger 45L backpack, Bridger 35L daypack
Jackets: Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Jacket
Fleece and Layers: Cotopaxi Otero midlayer
Pants: Fjallraven Keb Trousers
Sunglasses: Wiley X
