Sub-Nero 30L ROBIC Backpack
The Sub Nero is definitely the best pack for ultralight backpackers that have their kit stripped down.
– David W., ★★★★★
**This backpack has been replaced by our newer Sub-Nero Ultra. It has a similar design but is constructed with a more durable Ultra material and a slightly modified feature set.
The perfect ultralight frameless pack for a SUL thru-hike or a lightweight overnighter, the Sub-Nero is a smaller and slightly more stripped down version of our popular Nero Backpack.
Streamlined to only the most essential features, the Sub-Nero is great for hikers with dialed in base weights and minimalist kits.
The ROBIC® version of the Sub-Nero is highly durable and provides added abrasion resistance over the DCF version.
Featuring a sit pad, and a variety of optional modular add-ons, the highly versatile Sub-Nero allows you to get the most out of any day, section, or thru-hike.
- Constructed from a mix of 3.7 oz/sqyd 100D and 5.8 oz/sqyd 210D ROBIC® Material.
- Small and streamlined design eliminates the need for a webbing belt.
- Strategically placed attachment loops accommodate our most popular backpack add-ons like our Top Side Pockets, Shock Cord Lashing and Ice Axe Loops.
- 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 pack material is waterproof and is constructed using hydrophobic thread, making the pack 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: 9.5 ounces (276 g) | Foam sit pad adds 1.0 oz (28 g)
Body dimensions: 5.5" x 10" x 19" (14 cm x 25 cm x 48 cm)
Volume: 30L (17L main body, 2.5L each side pocket, 8L center pocket)
Load Capacity: Recommended up to 20 lbs (9 kg)
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5.8 oz/sqyd 210D ROBIC® We use this heavier weight of ROBIC® to add strength and durability in high wear areas. We use this material for the pockets of the Sub-Nero. Weight: 5.8 oz/sqyd (197 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) |
Dial in your set up with add-ons commonly purchased with our Sub-Nero backpacks.

















Sub-Nero Add-ons
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.
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.
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.
Umbrella Holster
This item has saved many a hike through scorching temperatures and inclement weather. Great product. Will never hit the trail without it.
– Christian D., ★★★★★
The Umbrella Holster allows you to keep your hands free while protecting yourself from the rain and sun with an ultralight umbrella. It easily attaches to the daisy chain on most backpack's straps. In calm weather you can keep both hands on your trekking poles, while in strong wind or driving rain you can rest one hand on the umbrella to control the angle.
The Umbrella Holster consists of a clip and an adjustable shock cord loop that attaches to your shoulder strap.
Attach the buckle above the sternum strap on your strap's daisy chain and then attach the shock cord loop at the bottom of the daisy chain.
Insert your umbrella into the clip and then cinch the shock cord tight around the umbrella’s handle.
Perfect for use with our Lotus UL Umbrella.
Aquaclip Kit
What an incredibly handy little thing! I’m one of those folks that hate hydration reservoirs inside my pack. I needed a handy way to attach a bottle to my pack’s shoulder strap and this is it. It holds bottles securely and allows easy access. Genius!
– John S., ★★★★★
Tired of bending over backwards to reach your water bottles? Our Aquaclip Kit allows you to to clip a water bottle to your backpack’s shoulder straps or belt so you have it easily accessible up front. It will fit any small water bottle with a standard size neck. The bottle can be popped in and out easily on the go. We find that it carries the weight of a 500 ml (16.9 fl oz) bottle well.
This clip is not designed to carry heavier water bottles. If you're looking to carry a larger bottle, like the 1L SmartWater bottle, we recommend our Water Bottle Sleeve instead.
The Zpacks kit includes one AquaClip, two One-Wrap® Velcro bands for securing it to the daisy chain on your shoulder straps, and a rubber end cap so that the clip cannot slide out of the velcro.
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.
Pack Cover
This item is super. It is very light weight and keeps my pack dry. I am glad I purchased it with my Arc Haul 62L.
– Walter H., ★★★★★
Protect your backpack from pouring rain and muddy ground with our Pack Cover. Our pack cover is an ultralight option to keep your backpack dry, including the outside pockets. It includes an elastic clip to secure it from storm winds.
Consider a Pack Liner as an alternative, if you don't mind your outer pockets getting wet.