Arc Haul Scout 50L Backpack DISC
**This backpack has been replaced by the Women's Arc Haul Ultra. It has a similar design but is constructed with more durable Ultra fabric.
Designed specifically for people with shorter torsos, the Arc Haul Scout comfortably transfers your pack’s weight to your hips with our patented ‘Arc Frame’ system. The frame also creates a gap between your back and the pack allowing for air flow that helps keeps you cool.
A smaller frame size creates a good fit for most hikers with a torso height shorter than 17" (43cm).
Featuring adjustable shoulder straps, an interchangeable belt, and a variety of optional modular add-ons, the Arc Haul Scout will allow you to tackle those long days on the trail with a durable ultralight backpack designed to fit you.
- Constructed from 4.85 oz/sqyd Gridstop Fabric.
- Roll-top closure (like our dry bags) keeps water out, and lets you roll down the top as your gear load shrinks. All seams and attachment points are taped, making the pack highly water resistant. We still suggest using dry bags for your important items like your sleeping bag.
- Comfy 3/8" thick by 2.75" wide padded contoured shoulder straps and padded belt. Both the straps and the belt have a daisy chain for clipping on items, and an adjustable position sternum strap is also included. The belt and shoulder straps have 3D mesh on the underside. This gives them a little bit more cushion, and the belt also has more texture for better grip.
- 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 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.
- Side compression straps are made from non-stretchy Dyneema® cord for squishing down the pack volume. They also allow you to stand tall items like trekking poles in the side pockets.
- A top strap, and base straps allow you to lash on extra items to the top or base of the pack. The straps come off if you don't need them.
- A centrally located Hydration Port is included to string out a drinking tube over either the left or right shoulder. It is just above/between the shoulder straps and it has a triangular cover to keep out water. A water bladder can either be hung from an internal hang loop or laid horizontally on top of your gear.
- The 50L pack size has enough space for 5-6 days of food and ultralight gear. The pack can be compressed down with the roll top and side compression straps for short trips or use the top strap and base straps to lash extra stuff to the outside for long carries.
- All standard Bear Canisters, including the Bearikade Expedition and the BearVault 500 will fit in the upper half of this pack standing on end. There is enough extra girth to either wrap a foam pad around the canister (if you use one) or stand a medium stuff sack vertically beside the bear canister.
- The short and medium size frames will fit into an airplane overhead bin with the top rolled down to the frame. The tall size frame may not fit unless you pop the vertical frame bars out of the pack.
- Our Flexed Arc Frame is is covered by US Patent No. 9,060,590
- Our torso height adjustment mechanism is is covered by US Patent No. 9,848,687
- 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.
- Our ultralight Flexed Arc frame keeps the pack stiff so that most weight is carried on the hips instead of the shoulders. The frame pieces and mesh back panel can be easily removed or replaced.
- The frame is curved to allow air flow and keep your back cushioned from the pack's contents. You can adjust the curve by tensioning the mesh back panel. The recommended arch is about 2.5" (6 cm).
- The belt is attached directly to the bottom of the pack frame for the best load transfer.
- The belt is removable and interchangeable. If you lose weight or need to share the pack between people the belt can be swapped out. Watch the belt removal video for more information.
- The shoulder straps and load lifter straps are attached directly to the frame. Load lifters straps come standard on this pack.
- The shoulder straps can move up or down to adjust the torso height to a perfect fit using our patented torso adjustment mechanism. It works like a conveyor belt. This is great for sharing the pack between people, for growing teenagers or for resale.
- The belt provides a full wrap around your back. No need for additional lumbar support.
- The belt is done with "V-Style" webbing so that the top and bottom circumference can be adjusted independently. This helps wrap your hips much more securely, and prevents the belt from sliding down.
- Collectively, these features provide the additional load transfer necessary for loads up to around 35 lbs (16 kg).
Body dimensions: 7" x 12.5" x 26" (18 cm x 31.8 cm x 64 cm)
Volume: 50L (37L main body, 2.5L each side pocket, 8L center pocket)
Frame Height: 17.5" (44.5 cm)
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.3.5 oz/sqyd Mesh This is the mesh that we use on our backpack's center pockets. It has a relatively light weight for mesh, while being difficult to tear. It can withstand getting caught on branches and other typical abrasion that backpacks are subjected to. The hole size is a about 4 mm (a little over 1/8"). Weight: 3.5 oz/sqyd (119 g/m²) |
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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:
To measure your torso height, you will need the help of a friend and a string or cloth tape measure.
Most hikers wear their belt near the top of their hips, however, it isn’t uncommon for hikers to position their belt higher or lower.
To ensure you lock in the perfect fit, we suggest putting a belt on over your clothes in the spot where you’d like to belt to ride. Start your measurement at the center of the belt where it meets your spine.
Lower your chin towards your chest. This will cause the C7 vertebrae to protrude at the base of your neck. The C7 vertebrae will mark the top of your torso height measurement.
Using the string or cloth tape measure, follow the curve of your spine up from the center of your belt to your C7 vertebrae. This measurement is your torso height.
Belt Size:
The padded portion of the belt is 1" shorter than the listed minimum adjustment. For example a "Medium (30-36 inches)" belt has padding which measures about 29" tip to tip, and has a minimum adjustment circumference of 30". It is the recommended size if your actual measurement is up to 36" however the webbing extends further.
To measure your belt size, pull a string or cloth tape measure tight around the spot you’d like your belt to ride. Choose a belt with a minimum adjustment of a couple inches smaller than your actual waist measurement. This will leave room for you to tighten down the belt if you lose a little weight on trail.
The belts on our Arc Series packs are also removable and interchangeable. This will give you the ability to switch the belt out if your waist size changes or if you order the incorrect size by mistake.
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Scout
Really nice. Wish it had a couple of inside loops to hook pouches to for ID, cash, stuff I don't want to fall out accidentally

couldn’t be more pleased
In search of a comfortable light or ultralight backpack I ended up ordering and trying 5 different packs. Out of the 5 the Zpack ended up being my first pick. I took out on a 5 day thru hike and absolutely love it. It fits my gear perfectly, it fits me perfectly, it was incredibly comfortable to carry. I couldn’t be more pleased. FYI I ended up with the Scout due to my short frame, I am 5’4” 100 lbs and 57 years old, in case that helps anyone deciding on size and whatnot. This pack has been a game changer for me.

a prize for short torso's
I am 5ft 2 1/2, I have a difficult time finding a pack that fits my torso. This pack is great I highly recommend it. Most shorter packs don't have the same features as the regular size packs but this one has everything and fits properly. I have only worn it for a hike distance of 10ish miles so far but it is headed for 30-40 mile weekend hikes, I think it will work great.
Great fit!
After much deliberation, I finally ordered the Arc Haul Scout 50L backpack and recently brought it with me on an 8-night backpacking trip in Isle Royale National Park. I knew that I would likely encounter very cold, rainy conditions and therefore had a much heavier-than-normal load to carry (32 lbs in total, to be exact) and the Arc Haul Scout carried it like a dream! I ordered the XS belt size and it fits me perfectly. For reference, I am a little under 5'4" and 115 lbs. This pack seems very well-made and I am very happy with my purchase!
I just wanted to let you know that the Scout fits me well.
I just wanted to let you know that the Scout fits me well. As I mentioned I am 5' 5" but packs don't stay around my hips once I start walking. They always creep up around my waist because my waist is much smaller than my hips. Also, as a woman, I have narrower shoulders, again making the 'kid pack - Scout' a better fit. I tried other brands and they were too wide for my shoulders so would either rub my neck or scrunch my chest. LOVE the Autumn Orange color, too!"
Dial in your set up with add-ons commonly purchased with our backpacks.






























Arc Haul Add-Ons
Medium Dry Bag
Very lightweight and compact. Roll top allows for flexible stowing options. All specs exactly as stated.
– Patrick M., ★★★★★
Trek through damp forests with confidence and dry gear. This is a good size for multiple clothing items, a tent, or a down quilt. This size fits well horizontally in most smaller backpacks.
Need a different size? Check out the rest of our Dry Bag collection.
Top Side Pocket
These pockets are perfect for a few bulky items that I like to bring on my trips. I highly recommend them!
– Michael H., ★★★★★
Sometimes an adventure calls for a little extra space. Made from Ultra material, our modular Top Side Pockets allow you to carry extra gear (like your cooking pot or rain gear) on the outside of your pack while still being able to accommodate taller items (like trekking poles, an umbrella, or a fishing pole) behind the pockets.
Ice Axe Loops (Both Sides of Pack)
The loops fit my pack perfect and my ice axe perfect. What can I say...they’re perfect!
– Jerry C., ★★★★★
When your adventure calls for traveling along snowy ridgelines or climbing icy peaks, the ice axe loops are the perfect addition to your backpack. A pair of loops are attached at each side of the pack for securing two ice axes. The head of each axe secures through a loop at the bottom, and the handle is kept tight at the top with a shock cord band. The loops can all come off when you aren't carrying axes.
Trekking Pole Holsters (Both Sides of Pack)
I love them. They work great for my trekking poles and fishing pole !!!
– Scott B., ★★★★★
When the terrain levels out or you’re strolling into a trail town, trekking pole holsters are a great way to stow your trekking poles out of the way. These are convenient if you want to quickly store your poles for climbing, road walking, or other situations where you prefer to have your hands free.
This item includes two pairs of adjustable shock cord loops. Attach them to your shoulder straps and belt at each side of the backpack to temporarily hold a trekking pole at either side.
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.
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.
Belt Pouch
The belt pouches on Zpacks are one of the many selling points for their products. They are roomy, easy to access and are superior to that offered on any other pack I've used!
– Cristy G., ★★★★★
Be prepared for whatever the trail may bring by keeping your essentials close in hand with our belt pouches. These pouches clip securely to a padded belt, like on our Arc backpacks. There is plenty of space for a headlamp, folded maps, snacks, hat and gloves, gadgets, you name it.
If your backpack has a webbing belt, try Belt Pouches with Pads.
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.
Stick-On Key Zip Pouch
This thing was easy to attach and very lightweight. It will help me not lose track of IDs and cash in the bottom of my pack!
– Karen J., ★★★★★
Make sure you don’t lose your most important items. Attach this stick-on key zip pouch to the inside of your backpack, and your keys, wallet, passport, smartphone or other valuables will still be where you left them at the end of your hike. When you get to town the pouch detaches and fits in your pocket.
Just peel off the brown paper backing from the included flat clips and attach the pouch inside your backpack where you want it. We usually stick it towards the top of the backpack right behind the shoulder straps so that it is easy to get to. The adhesive bonds well and will also work on any urethane coated backpack material. Spare Stick on Flat Clips are available if you want to clip this pouch to a second location.
Medium Dry Bag
Very lightweight and compact. Roll top allows for flexible stowing options. All specs exactly as stated.
– Patrick M., ★★★★★
Trek through damp forests with confidence and dry gear. This is a good size for multiple clothing items, a tent, or a down quilt. This size fits well horizontally in most smaller backpacks.
Need a different size? Check out the rest of our Dry Bag collection.
Top Side Pocket
These pockets are perfect for a few bulky items that I like to bring on my trips. I highly recommend them!
– Michael H., ★★★★★
Sometimes an adventure calls for a little extra space. Made from Ultra material, our modular Top Side Pockets allow you to carry extra gear (like your cooking pot or rain gear) on the outside of your pack while still being able to accommodate taller items (like trekking poles, an umbrella, or a fishing pole) behind the pockets.
Ice Axe Loops (Both Sides of Pack)
The loops fit my pack perfect and my ice axe perfect. What can I say...they’re perfect!
– Jerry C., ★★★★★
When your adventure calls for traveling along snowy ridgelines or climbing icy peaks, the ice axe loops are the perfect addition to your backpack. A pair of loops are attached at each side of the pack for securing two ice axes. The head of each axe secures through a loop at the bottom, and the handle is kept tight at the top with a shock cord band. The loops can all come off when you aren't carrying axes.
Trekking Pole Holsters (Both Sides of Pack)
I love them. They work great for my trekking poles and fishing pole !!!
– Scott B., ★★★★★
When the terrain levels out or you’re strolling into a trail town, trekking pole holsters are a great way to stow your trekking poles out of the way. These are convenient if you want to quickly store your poles for climbing, road walking, or other situations where you prefer to have your hands free.
This item includes two pairs of adjustable shock cord loops. Attach them to your shoulder straps and belt at each side of the backpack to temporarily hold a trekking pole at either side.
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.
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.
Belt Pouch
The belt pouches on Zpacks are one of the many selling points for their products. They are roomy, easy to access and are superior to that offered on any other pack I've used!
– Cristy G., ★★★★★
Be prepared for whatever the trail may bring by keeping your essentials close in hand with our belt pouches. These pouches clip securely to a padded belt, like on our Arc backpacks. There is plenty of space for a headlamp, folded maps, snacks, hat and gloves, gadgets, you name it.
If your backpack has a webbing belt, try Belt Pouches with Pads.