After hiking 90 miles on the Portuguese route of the Camino de Santiago, the Osprey Mira 32 backpack proved so comfortable it became almost forgettable. The pack, priced from $239.95, carried everything needed for two weeks in Spain without causing any hot spots or friction points, according to the reviewer.
Comfort and Fit on the Trail
The adjustable torso length allowed a customized fit, while the suspended mesh back panel kept air flowing during humid forest stretches. The reviewer, who walked 9 to 16 miles daily for six to eight hours, finished the trek with zero discomfort. The 32-liter daypack was chosen over a larger trekking pack, which would have added an extra 10 pounds and likely caused exhaustion before lunch.
Organization and Features
Seven exterior pockets provided easy access to essentials. A hidden top pocket secured a passport, credit card holder, and earbuds. The stretchy front shove-it pocket held a rain jacket without unzipping the main compartment. Side pockets accommodated a large water bottle, rain cover, and snacks. Hip-belt pockets were reachable while walking, fitting lip balm, coins, and a compact iPhone 14, but not larger phones.
A bright green rain cover, stored in a zippered pocket at the pack's base, could be deployed in seconds during Galicia's unpredictable showers. The reviewer used it repeatedly throughout the week.
Packing and Versatility
Compression straps kept contents snug, and attachment loops were repurposed for clipping a hat, fast-drying cloth, and shower flip-flops. A scallop shell, a Camino symbol, hung from the front pocket. The reviewer also carried a 14-inch MacBook Pro inside the hydration sleeve, where its 3.5-pound weight was barely noticeable. The included water reservoir was left behind in favor of refilling bottles at public fountains.
The pack served well not only on the trail but also while exploring Santiago de Compostela and Madrid for an additional week.
Comparison and Value
Before purchasing the Mira at REI, the reviewer tested 30- to 34-liter packs from Cotopaxi, Deuter, Patagonia, and other brands. The Mira hit the sweet spot: most spacious without feeling bulky and lightest on the back. The Mira 32 is discontinued, but the new 34-liter version (women's) and the men's Manta 34 offer the same features at $239.95 and $234, respectively.
Packing Tips from the Camino
Keep heavy items low and close to your back to make the pack feel lighter and more stable, especially on climbs and descents. Pack for two or three days instead of a week, as most stops have laundry facilities. Leave room to stash layers, as Northern Spain's weather changes constantly.
Recommended Accessories
Thule compression packing cubes ($53.95 for a set of two at REI) kept clothing compact. An REI Co-op packable fast-drying towel ($19.95) was essential for hostel showers and wiping sweat. An REI lightweight folding brim cap ($35.95) provided shade on exposed stretches. Sea to Summit pocket soap sheets ($6.95) allowed washing clothes without liquid detergent. A Metolius mini carabiner ($7.95) clipped odds and ends to the pack. Vuori fast-drying athletic shorts ($53.93, originally $68 at REI) dried in hours after hand-washing.
