Need daypack recommendations

What RS daypack were you using? It helps to know what size you think is appropriate. The Civitas works for me, but it wouldn't hold a raincoat unless you mean the cheap kind that folds into a pocket size.

Looking at the current options it is probably closer to the Ravenna. It looks more like the Civita, but is definitely larger. It has a zipper to extend the size.

This is what I have, and I have not had reason to shop for anything else

https://www.eddiebauer.com/product/stowaway-packable-20l-daypack/82300168?showProducts=&color=147&sizetype=&size=

Also works as my 'personal' item on planes

I have a specific requirement for a day pack: it needs to mate (zip together to) to my larger pack, so I can get both of them on my back (or over my shoulder) at the same time. There aren't that many that work like this, but this is the pack system I've traveled with and sworn by for years:

MEI Trekker

For my needs, it's nearly perfect. The main bag fits for most airlines as a carry on (but not for the most strict - although since its a soft pack, it can squish as much as needed). The day pack is super-comfortable and perfect for my "personal item" on most flights but still holds a lot. Worth noting: they do not sell just the day pack by itself, you have to get it with the main bag. So unless you are ready to buy a new primary bag, too, this won't be an option for you. But if you are...this is a great, complete system.

I've been using MEI packs for years and have had great experience with them.

My wife has one from LL Bean, and I have an Osprey brand pack that is sold at REI and Bass Pro shops, and probably other places.

Becky, go to a place like REI and try some out. Size and configuration can vary drastically.

I have a North Face daypack that I bought 20 years ago. I still use it although the elastic in the mesh water bottle pockets is long gone rendering the pockets useless.

Joe32F, I'm so glad the Eddie Bauer backpack works for you. I bought one for my upcoming trip but I did a few security modifications like sewing in snaps, rings and adding carabiners. And I added a belt buckle (the kind with two plastic ends that snap together) to the excess ends of the shoulder straps to act as a waist belt. I fastened the same kind of belt buckle with one end on my camera bag and the other sewn into the backpack for safe carrying. I am taking a Pacsafe tote on the plane since it will hold more in route and I won't have to unpack it for daily use like I would if I only carried the backpack. Every time I look at the tote, I think "why do I need one more thing" and then remember how much I like it and how easy it is to travel with.

Becky, although this backpack looks well-made, I doubt if you'll get 12 years out of it. The fabric is too light since it is a packable backpack and folds up into it's own pocket.

I will definitely visit REIand Eddie Bauer. I should have specified that I hang the pack on my wheelchair, so the fit isn’t a big deal. I’m looking for something with several compartments for organization and easy access. Appreciate all the suggestions.

I keep going smaller and lighter. I use something to pack daily necessities which may include a raincoat, sweater, umbrella, lunch, groceries, laundry, water, wine or beer. I also use it to separate my necessities for the flight over so I can pull them out of my bag and have them handy (inflatable pillow, blindfold, melatonin, ear plugs and ear buds).

I packed a Victorianox daypack on trip, as my only bag. I was planning to ride a bicycle for part of the trip and wanted to have something small and light with shoulder straps. I haven't used the bag since, it has too much overall weight and padding for my uses.

I used a Civita pack for a long time because it was the lightest daypack I could find. I liked that it took up very little room in my bag when not in use. It has very little structure and didn't work great as a grocery bag.

I went to a reusable shopping bag (from a French supermarket chain). It could hold all the same but folded up even smaller and definitely didn't make me look like a tourist who would interest thieves.

I've gone down another notch. I bought a small nylon backpack that folds inside itself to about the size of a folded shopping bag but lighter weight. It's big enough for one raincoat but probably not for two. I picked it up at Sierra Trading Post but I've seen similar in travel sections in Nordstrom Rack and others. I wanted something with shoulder straps as my next trip will include some walks where I'll want to pack a lunch but not carry a shopping bag.

I think this bag will double as a packing cube. It's about the right size to keep all my toiletries, electronics, flying stuff and other random things that are in their own Ziploc bags in one place in my bag. It will make it easier when I reach in to grab something.

I don't expect it to last 12 years. I'm really more concerned with reducing the weight and bulk of my bag than durability.