Nero 38L DCF Backpack DISC
This backpack was the ultimate step into the right direction! The value of this pack surpasses almost all my other gear, without it, the path to a lighter future would never have been taken. The quality of the pack, the weight, the effortless comfort all adds to the beauty of the simple design. Only carry what you need and have no fear. The beauty of a sub 10 base weight starts here 😁 and the Nero makes it all possible!
– Daniel T., ★★★★★
**This backpack has been replaced by our newer Nero Ultra. It has a similar design but is constructed with a more durable Ultra material and a slightly modified feature set.
Designed for hikers pushing their limits and obsessing over every gram. The ultralight Nero is a compact frameless backpack streamlined to only the most essential features making it great for hikes where less weight and volume is required.
Multiple thru-hikes of the Triple Crown trails have been completed with the Nero, helping to prove that smaller volume frameless packs are a legitimate approach to long-distance hiking.
Featuring a removable webbing belt, sit pad, and a variety of optional modular add-ons, the highly versatile Nero will allow you to get the most out of any day, section, or thru-hike.
- Constructed from 3.1 oz/sqyd Dyneema® Composite Fabric (Hybrid).
- Strategically placed attachment loops accommodate our most popular backpack add-ons like our Top Side Pockets, Shock Cord Lashing and Ice Axe Loops.
- Three belt positions allow you to move the webbing belt up or down to fit a range of torso heights. The included belt is 1" (2.5 cm) wide and has a maximum adjustment of about 50" (127 cm) circumference. The belt contributes 1.2 ounces (34 grams) to the total weight. It can be trimmed down or removed.
- Belt pouches with integrated belt pads are sold separately for those who desire more belt cushioning.
- Integrated roll-top closure straps clip to the sides of the pack using the same 1/2” side release buckles featured on our Arc Series backpacks. The straps can be cinched to compress the pack's volume or used to stand tall items like trekking poles in the side pockets.
- A closed cell foam sit pad measuring 11" x 15.5" (28 cm x 39.4 cm) is included and adds an additional 1 ounce to the total weight of the pack. The foam provides some cushion and support against your back. The sit pad is held in place with shock cord and comes off quickly for breaks. The shock cord (.3 oz / 8.5 g) and sit pad are removable and replaceable.
- The shock cord can also be re-tied to accommodate up to 20" tall folded sleeping pads, or taller sit pads.
- The pack material is waterproof. All seams and attachment points are taped with Dyneema® Composite Fabric Tape and the pack is constructed using hydrophobic thread, making the packs highly water resistant.
- Comfy 3/8" thick by 2.75" wide padded contoured shoulder straps. The straps have a daisy chain for clipping on items, and an adjustable position sternum strap is included. The shoulder straps have 3D mesh on the underside which gives them a little bit more cushion.
- Side pockets are sized to fit 1 or 1.5 liter bottles. They are positioned low on the pack and slanted forward for easy access without removing the pack. The pockets have drainage holes at the bottom, and elastic that keeps them tight at the top.
- Large stretchy Lycra mesh center pocket is great for quick access items. Mesh also lets you dry wet clothing and gives you a clear view of your gear.
- This pack can be folded up to fit inside a 1 gallon Ziploc bag. It can easily be packed in your luggage or used as a carry-on.
- All Zpacks gear has a two year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. Please see our return / warranty policy.
- Made in the USA.
Pack Weight: 10.9 ounces (308 g) | Foam sit pad adds 1.0 oz (28 g)
Belt (included): 1" (2.5 cm) wide x 50" (127 cm) circumference, 1.2 oz (34 g)
Body dimensions: 5.5" x 12" x 23" (14 cm x 30 cm x 59 cm)
Volume: 38L (25L main body, 2.5L each side pocket, 8L center pocket)
Load Capacity: Recommended up to 20 lbs (9 kg)
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Made with Bio-Based Dyneema® Fiber Reduce your carbon footprint with DSM’s bio-based Dyneema® fiber technology. Sourced from renewable, bio-based feedstock, it is the first ever bio-based ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (HMPE) fiber. Commit to sustainability and help reduce our reliance on fossil fuel resources and rely on the trusted performance of the world’s strongest fiber™. Click here to learn more about our sustainability initiatives. Made in the USA. |
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5.3 oz/sqyd 3D Spacer Mesh This mesh has a three-dimensional structure which allows airflow and adds cushioning. It has a tricot backing so you can't see clear through the holes. We use it on the underside of our backpack's shoulder straps and belts to absorb sweat, add cushion, and add grip. Our 3D mesh weighs less than most other types. Weight: 5.3 oz/sqyd (180 g/m²) Thickness: About 3/32" (2.5 mm) |
Torso Height:
This backpack has three belt attachment positions allowing you to move the belt up or down to fit a range of torso heights. The actual distance on the pack from the bottom of the belt to the top of the shoulder straps can be adjusted from about 18" to 22" (46 to 56 cm), which will fit most adults. On a frameless backpack, it is nice to have the shoulder straps roughly level with the tops of your shoulders (rather than wrapping up around them) so that more weight is forced on to the webbing belt. The pack body does not extend much above your shoulders and load lifter straps are not needed.
Belt Size:
The webbing belt will fit up to around 50" circumference and can be trimmed down for smaller waists or swapped out for larger waists. To move the belt to a different position, slide off the belt buckle and back the webbing out of the backpack attachment points.
Click here for full instructions on how to wash our Dyneema® Composite Fabric backpacks.
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Leigh Wadden](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_ab3c57df_9159_480b_8668_9974150956fe.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Shmavid](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_32548a8d_b51e_4c16_a961_89e3d91d7172.jpeg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Barbara Eichholzer](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_17bc49a5_9d9d_404f_b3b4_583e5b69cbf2.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Daniel Thomas](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_b7eb0db9_0ff7_4dc3_af8d_1d6a86c02aaa.jpeg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Hobyung Chae](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_d5fcdd89_a379_4b0a_95c0_6a732bc7bbb3.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Ben](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_60ff8082_7712_44e2_930c_fa2157cd76cc.jpeg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Clorinda Dorame](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_1e6326d7_0ab7_42f1_9cea_dcdaf539e812.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Clorinda Dorame](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_9e044766_26f8_4327_bd3e_3d6c86b94215.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Clorinda Dorame](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_e4a36209_94e1_4f4b_a8dc_36c4b95fbb08.jpg?v=)
![Nero 38L DCF Backpack - Customer Photo From Jeremy Sells](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/photos/73936_916673036324_675ad8a3_4804_4a28_8e27_057552fec024.jpg?v=)
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![Japan](https://cdn.stamped.io/cdn/images/pixel.png)
amazinglightness
This is ultra light This lightness is terrible at this size. Lightness that makes you smile every time you hold it I'm considering a 30ℓ nero next.
![United States](https://cdn.stamped.io/cdn/images/pixel.png)
Best Backpack
Best backpack with ultralight gear. Great build quality, excellent size and weight! Attention to detail is exceptional and focus to weight differential is nice. I took off the belt and extra straps: weight comes in at 256g (9oz). Bonus foam pad is nice for a pillow, seat, and frame if you like 24g (0.85oz)
![A Zpacks Customer](https://cdn.stamped.io/uploads/customers/bGF3YWRkZW5AbXNuLmNvbQ_.jpg)
![United States](https://cdn.stamped.io/cdn/images/pixel.png)
Love It
I carried this pack to finish the final 100 miles of the Colorado Trail. Couldn't believe how light it was and I barely noticed a volume difference from the 55L Arc Blast. It's well made, compact and perfect for my 5'2" 110lb body.
![United States](https://cdn.stamped.io/cdn/images/pixel.png)
Adventure frameless
I've always used internal/external frame backpacks. I have used a variety of brands and sizes and was always comfortable with what I used. I have been hiking and camping since...forever it seems, but admittedly the pandemic opened my eyes to the niche UL market. Most of the gear I did use had a military/tactical bent, not very light - but practical. Motivated to start photographing the outdoors/wilderness and to get off my ***, I began to investigate UL equip and brands. I was hesitant to switch to a smaller capacity, frameless backpack. Hesitant because- would it hurt my back? Can I fit everything I need to bring? How will I feel after a couple days? Is it durable? After a couple years of use, this bag has exceeded my expectations and has made me a customer for life. My back does't hurt after multi day trips and I feel great. I am looking forward to putting my bag on and hitting the trail. It is durable and very light. I have never had an issue with rain or water. The biggest obstacle I faced transitioning to this bag was deciding on what I needed to bring. This can mean many things for many people. I average around 12-15 pounds of weight for weekend trips. If I bring a tele-photo lens, the bag can support up to 21lbs comfortably (not recommended). If I ever needed a larger capacity bag, a Zpacks bag would be next purchase.
![United States](https://cdn.stamped.io/cdn/images/pixel.png)
Nero 38 DCF? Perfrect for 1-3 days.
Haven't used on a proper backpacking trip yet. Mostly doing local hikes from 6 to 12 miles while carrying weights of 15 to 25lbs in this pack. After my initial shakedown on varying weights I can comfortably say the suggested max weight of 20lbs and an overloaded weight of 25lbs as being no-problem with this pack. Quite comfy at 20lbs but 25lbs is definitely pushing it. Shoulders were a little fatigued past 10 miles with the pack overloaded. However, 20lbs is no problem or no discomfort noticed at 12 miles. I will say the most comfortable the pack felt was when I was under 16lbs. So far? I am impressed. Hopefully the pack can hold up to some abuse.
Dial in your set up with add-ons commonly purchased with our Nero Backpacks.
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-waterbottlesleeve-01_600x.jpg?v=1685454158)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/UltraFlask_Speed_600ml_Front_Straw_Canva_600x.png?v=1718298727)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/DSC09936-Edit_600x.jpg?v=1682606421)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/01D09DAC-FD6F-412E-B8C0-0D3EB832DD69_1_105_c_600x.jpg?v=1696005364)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/nero-v-top-strap-1_600x.jpg?v=1589415827)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-glacial-gear-trail-rag-03_600x.jpg?v=1714762141)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-fupa-01_600x.jpg?v=1726769721)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-multi-pack-01_600x.jpg?v=1726769329)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/zpacks-ultralight-shoulder-strap-pads-pair_600x.jpg?v=1540834606)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-sunglasses-case-02_600x.jpg?v=1721075263)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/Zpacks-Saftey-Whistle-01_600x.jpg?v=1701972876)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-titanium-whistle-02_600x.jpg?v=1725392458)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/Zpacks-Umbrella-Holster-01_600x.jpg?v=1690837377)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/zpacks-stickonkeppouch_600x.jpg?v=1678381065)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/zpacks-medium-dry-bag_600x.jpg?v=1536849700)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-pack-cover-02_600x.jpg?v=1726769054)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/airplane_case_side_blue_600x.jpg?v=1564090042)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/zpacks-replacement-nero-belt_600x.jpg?v=1599166905)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/ZPACKS-DETACHABLEPADDEDBELT-M_600x.jpg?v=1670606699)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-campshoe-09-white_600x.jpg?v=1730824591)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/zpacks-nitecore-nu20-classic-01_600x.jpg?v=1737647484)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/Nitecore-NU25-400L-Ultralight-Headband-Zpacks-01_600x.jpg?v=1669843219)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/Nitecore-NU25-400L-Standard-Headband-Zpacks-01_600x.jpg?v=1669843232)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/files/71UIpu892aL._AC_SX679_79aa95f9-e1ca-49f5-9583-b2720e51fcb2_600x.jpg?v=1692031270)
![](http://zpacks.com/cdn/shop/products/Zpacks-Summit-Suds-Powered-Soap-04_600x.jpg?v=1679949577)
Nero Add-Ons
Pair of Shoulder Strap Pads
Excellent, Immediately noticed that the pack was more comfortable with these pads helping to hike longer.
– Louis S., ★★★★★
Our Shoulder Strap Pads add extra padding to your shoulder straps right where you need it. These shoulder strap pads should be compatible with almost any backpack straps. They are made with 3/8" closed cell foam, and a layer of soft cushioning 3D mesh on the underside.
Ultralight Sunglasses Case
Protect your investment with our Ultralight Sunglasses Case—your new best friend for ultralight, ultra-cool protection! This sleek, minimalist marvel is made from high-tech Robic material, delivering the perfect mix of durability and feather-light convenience. Whether you're conquering rugged trails or cruising through the city, this fleece-lined case keeps your sunglasses scratch-free and ready for adventure.
With a built-in hang loop, this case is all about versatility and easy access. Clip it to your backpack, belt loop, or bike handle for easy access. No more rummaging through your bag—just grab, go, and know your shades are safe and sound.
The magnetic clasp closure adds a touch of modern sophistication while keeping your sunglasses firmly in place. With its streamlined design and advanced materials, our Sunglasses Case is a must-have accessory for any adventurer who values both style and functionality.
Whistle Clip
Stay safe in the backcountry with this ultralight, ultra-tiny whistle clip. This small, low profile whistle is surprisingly loud, and allows you to signal for help when you find yourself in danger on an adventure.
Clip the whistle to your backpack's daisy chain or sternum strap to keep it handy. Or thread a piece of cord through the hole to hang it from a loop.
*This item is not eligible for return.
Ultralight Titanium Whistle
This sleek, high-pitched powerhouse is crafted from top-grade titanium, ensuring it's as tough as your wildest adventures and as light as a feather. Weighing in at a mere fraction of an ounce, it won’t bog down your pack, yet it delivers an ear-piercing blast that cuts through the forest, making it an essential safety tool for hikers, backpackers, and trailblazers.
Attach it to your shoulder strap and be ready to make some noise when it counts. Whether you're navigating dense trails, signaling for help, or just letting your buddies know it's time to pack up, this whistle ensures you're heard loud and clear.
Water Bottle Sleeve
Easy to use. Enough support to be able to slide bottle in and out. Elastic loop holds the bottle in when bending over. Top notch!! Thanks, Zpacks.
– France M., ★★★★★
Water Bottle Sleeves are a great way to keep your water easily accessible while also counter-balancing your backpack. Designed to fit most popular tall slim 1L bottles such as Smart Water, Body Armor, Essentia and similar, these sleeves will attach to the shoulder straps on just about any backpack.
UltraFlask Speed 600 ML Soft Flask
The Hydrapak UltraFlask Speed 600 ml allows you to drink on the go. Its soft material allows it to fit snugly in most vest pockets and it shrinks as you drink to minimize water movement.
The SpeedFill™ cap flips open for quick top ups at aid stations, and the wide mouth can accommodate drink mixes and ice cubes. The included drinking-tube cap can also be swapped out with a BeFree Filter. You can also use just a bite valve without the drinking tube.
A perfect match for our Vest Straps or for our Water Bottle Sleeves. Grab two bottles for balanced hydration.
Shoulder Pouch w/ Zipper
Designed for the adventurer on the go, our Shoulder Pouch w/ Zipper is the ideal place to store items that you need on the ready, like a small camera, your wallet, a map or your smart phone. The streamlined design carries comfortably on your shoulder, and you will hardly notice them there.
The small exterior mesh pocket can be used to store your small items like lip balm, emergency whistle, or a compass.
Shoulder Pouch
Keeps your cell phone secure and handy when you need it for navigation or to take a picture. Pouch weighs next to nothing; a must for every serious hiker. I highly recommend this product.
– Paul G., ★★★★★
Shoulder Pouches are the ideal place to keep your small camera or phone in reach for taking quick photos. The main compartment of the shoulder pouches are a good size for your wallet, car keys, map, headlamp, mittens, sunglasses, candy bars, pack towel, GPS, or any other items you would like to have within easy reach. The pouches carry comfortably on your shoulder, and you will hardly notice them there.
The small exterior mesh pocket can be used to store your small items like lip balm, emergency whistle, or a compass.
**DCF material shoulder pouches are priced lower while supplies last. They look fine on Ultra backpacks and function about the same.
Nero V Top Strap
Our Nero V Top Strap adds additional stability when you’re carrying heavier items on the top of your backpack.
It can be used to carry a bear canister so long as the canister can squish into your gear as shown.
The Nero V Top Strap is modular and can be added or removed from your pack as necessary.
If you need a V Top Strap for your Arc Frame Backpack, you'll can purchase one specifically designed to work with one here.
Zpacks x Glacial Gear Wool Trail Rag
We've teamed up with Glacial Gear to create the ultimate 100% merino wool ultralight trail rag. Made from 180 gsm Hydro-Duct Merino Wool, it's the ideal companion for adventurers who demand both style and substance on the trail. From banishing stubborn dirt and sweat to confidently snatching that sizzling cook pot handle this rag does it all. Throw in merino wool's odor-fighting superpowers and a handy pack loop for easy access, and consider your trailside needs met.
Front Utility Pack Accessory
Really glad I bought this pouch—it works with my pack’s waist belt, it’s practically weightless, and it’s the perfect size for phone, compass, map and a few snacks.
– Charles Y., ★★★★★
From the summit to the streets, the versatile Front Utility Pack Accessory provides quick and easy access to all your essentials.
With plenty of space for your phone, a camera, a jacket or snacks, the ultralight F.U.P.A. can be worn as a stand-alone item while bagging a peak or for a night out on the town.
Leave the webbing belt at home and connect the F.U.P.A. directly to one of our backpacks for the ultimate pack accessory.
Multi-Pack
Really appreciate the ability to carry it different ways and to carry it alone on days in town. Saves much time and aggravation as you can get to most things you need during your hike when carried on your chest.
– Mark B., ★★★★★
This versatile four-in-one backpack accessory is one of our most popular items. The ability to choose between four different configurations helps make the Multi-Pack the perfect companion for just about any adventure.
Need a spare set of Multi-Pack straps? Click here.
Check out more of our Backpack Add-Ons.
Pair of Shoulder Strap Pads
Excellent, Immediately noticed that the pack was more comfortable with these pads helping to hike longer.
– Louis S., ★★★★★
Our Shoulder Strap Pads add extra padding to your shoulder straps right where you need it. These shoulder strap pads should be compatible with almost any backpack straps. They are made with 3/8" closed cell foam, and a layer of soft cushioning 3D mesh on the underside.
Ultralight Sunglasses Case
Protect your investment with our Ultralight Sunglasses Case—your new best friend for ultralight, ultra-cool protection! This sleek, minimalist marvel is made from high-tech Robic material, delivering the perfect mix of durability and feather-light convenience. Whether you're conquering rugged trails or cruising through the city, this fleece-lined case keeps your sunglasses scratch-free and ready for adventure.
With a built-in hang loop, this case is all about versatility and easy access. Clip it to your backpack, belt loop, or bike handle for easy access. No more rummaging through your bag—just grab, go, and know your shades are safe and sound.
The magnetic clasp closure adds a touch of modern sophistication while keeping your sunglasses firmly in place. With its streamlined design and advanced materials, our Sunglasses Case is a must-have accessory for any adventurer who values both style and functionality.
Whistle Clip
Stay safe in the backcountry with this ultralight, ultra-tiny whistle clip. This small, low profile whistle is surprisingly loud, and allows you to signal for help when you find yourself in danger on an adventure.
Clip the whistle to your backpack's daisy chain or sternum strap to keep it handy. Or thread a piece of cord through the hole to hang it from a loop.
*This item is not eligible for return.
Ultralight Titanium Whistle
This sleek, high-pitched powerhouse is crafted from top-grade titanium, ensuring it's as tough as your wildest adventures and as light as a feather. Weighing in at a mere fraction of an ounce, it won’t bog down your pack, yet it delivers an ear-piercing blast that cuts through the forest, making it an essential safety tool for hikers, backpackers, and trailblazers.
Attach it to your shoulder strap and be ready to make some noise when it counts. Whether you're navigating dense trails, signaling for help, or just letting your buddies know it's time to pack up, this whistle ensures you're heard loud and clear.
Water Bottle Sleeve
Easy to use. Enough support to be able to slide bottle in and out. Elastic loop holds the bottle in when bending over. Top notch!! Thanks, Zpacks.
– France M., ★★★★★
Water Bottle Sleeves are a great way to keep your water easily accessible while also counter-balancing your backpack. Designed to fit most popular tall slim 1L bottles such as Smart Water, Body Armor, Essentia and similar, these sleeves will attach to the shoulder straps on just about any backpack.
UltraFlask Speed 600 ML Soft Flask
The Hydrapak UltraFlask Speed 600 ml allows you to drink on the go. Its soft material allows it to fit snugly in most vest pockets and it shrinks as you drink to minimize water movement.
The SpeedFill™ cap flips open for quick top ups at aid stations, and the wide mouth can accommodate drink mixes and ice cubes. The included drinking-tube cap can also be swapped out with a BeFree Filter. You can also use just a bite valve without the drinking tube.
A perfect match for our Vest Straps or for our Water Bottle Sleeves. Grab two bottles for balanced hydration.
Shoulder Pouch w/ Zipper
Designed for the adventurer on the go, our Shoulder Pouch w/ Zipper is the ideal place to store items that you need on the ready, like a small camera, your wallet, a map or your smart phone. The streamlined design carries comfortably on your shoulder, and you will hardly notice them there.
The small exterior mesh pocket can be used to store your small items like lip balm, emergency whistle, or a compass.
Shoulder Pouch
Keeps your cell phone secure and handy when you need it for navigation or to take a picture. Pouch weighs next to nothing; a must for every serious hiker. I highly recommend this product.
– Paul G., ★★★★★
Shoulder Pouches are the ideal place to keep your small camera or phone in reach for taking quick photos. The main compartment of the shoulder pouches are a good size for your wallet, car keys, map, headlamp, mittens, sunglasses, candy bars, pack towel, GPS, or any other items you would like to have within easy reach. The pouches carry comfortably on your shoulder, and you will hardly notice them there.
The small exterior mesh pocket can be used to store your small items like lip balm, emergency whistle, or a compass.
**DCF material shoulder pouches are priced lower while supplies last. They look fine on Ultra backpacks and function about the same.