Backpack recommendations

[pitztop]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

I'm a big fan of the Vaude Brenta 40 pack http://www.vaude.com/en-GB/Products/Backpacks/Brenta-40-black.html. This is a German brand. I've walked 2 Caminos with it (Camino Francés in 2014 and from my house in Switzerland to Santiago in 2015.... and will be walking the Via de la Plata with it in 2017). It's very light, fits me perfectly and has an adjustable webbing for back size (the webbing allows air between your back and the pack). This is truly a wonderful backpack. If you have a chance, check it out.

 

[StepheninDC]

I'm a big fan of the Vaude Brenta 40 pack http://www.vaude.com/en-GB/Products/Backpacks/Brenta-40-black.html. This is a German brand. I've walked 2 Caminos with it (Camino Francés in 2014 and from my house in Switzerland to Santiago in 2015.... and will be walking the Via de la Plata with it in 2017). It's very light, fits me perfectly and has an adjustable webbing for back size (the webbing allows air between your back and the pack). This is truly a wonderful backpack. If you have a chance, check it out.

Thanks for the suggestion, but unfortunately they have no retailers in the USA.

 

[trecile]

Thanks for the suggestion, but unfortunately they have no retailers in the USA.

Not true. I did a quick Google search a found quite a few places to buy Vaude packs, including Amazon . https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00T...aa3-482a-b68f-00894ea1fcb5&pf_rd_i=6669703011

 

[StepheninDC]

Not true. I did a quick Google search a found quite a few places to buy Vaude packs, including Amazon .

Weird, I tried using my zip code, and the country names USA and Canada on their "find a dealer" search engine, and it kept saying there were no dealers. Maybe they need to fix their site, haha!
Kind of a moot point, though, I ordered an Osprey pack from REI and got it yesterday.

 

[StepheninDC]

Not true. I did a quick Google search a found quite a few places to buy Vaude packs, including Amazon .

Also, I would need to try something like that on before buying, and you can't do that with Amazon. I'd have to find a local retailer and as I said, the Vaude site said there weren't any...

 

[trecile]

Also, I would need to try something like that on before buying, and you can't do that with Amazon. I'd have to find a local retailer and as I said, the Vaude site said there weren't any...

But Amazon does offer free returns on lots of their merchandise. I'm not saying this necessarily for you, but for others who are looking.

 

[StepheninDC]

But Amazon[/U] does offer free returns on lots of their merchandise. I'm not saying this necessarily for you, but for others who are looking.

That's true, and I buy a TON of stuff from Amazon (just ask my wife, LOL!). However, I almost never return stuff: a friend of mine got a nastygram from them saying he was essentially banned from transacting with them due to excessive returns. I don't want that happening to me. Anyway, a pack is a very personal thing, and I definitely feel better having decided on a pack I was able to try on in a store. I think I hit the sweet spot with the Osprey I ended up buying. (having said that, if I'd been able to try on the Vaude in person, I might've ended up buying from Amazon.) I think it's great so many peregrinos like you have had good experiences with various packs and can help newbies like me sort themselves out.

 

[zzotte]

Have you looked at zpacks? ultra light backpack with great support

Zzotte

 

[zzotte]

I have found that the weight of the pack does not equates comfort, I hiked and walked the camino with different packs including a custom made pack, and I'm here to tell you my 3.75lb Aarn without from packs its the best fitting and the most comfortable out of all the packs for the long haul, short distances they are all about the same the difference becomes evident after a few hundred Kms so in my opinion, I will walk my next camino with my old and trusted Aarn. Its too bad that they closed shop here in the USA

Zzotte

 

[revkeg]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

Good morning from Canada. I will doing my 3rd Camino in August 2017. For the first Camino I used a Deuter 32 liter (just a tad small). I used a Deuter 50+ 10 for the second (carried some of my wife's stuff. For the 3rd Camino my wife and I will each be using a ULA Camino 2 http://www.ula-equipment.com/category_s/1906.htm I have used their packs for long distance backpacking and they are great with good hip belt pockets and are very adjustable. It is a panel opening pack and I like that as opposed to the stuff it in the top style. Also is small enough for airline carry on...even Ryan Air. Load range for the Camino 2 is around 35 lbs. If you want a second option I would look at the Osprey AG products...great suspension and room for air to circulate in the heat of the Mesta.

 

[dt93103]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

My wife and I (both late 60s) walked the Camino in October 2015. We both used the Osprey Kestrel 38 and thought it was the perfect size. We liked the built-in rain cover and we used a water bladder instead of water bottles since it's easy to drink on the go. If you take a pack that's bigger, you'll just fill it up; the less you carry, the better you'll feel.

 

[Glessed]

C

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

 

[Glessed]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

Check out Deuter brand.

 

[andrew@cwgsy.net]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

I have Osprey Kestrel 38 and like it very much, having used it on several long distance walks in the UK (Cotswold Way, St Cuthberts / St Oswalds Way, etc.) and intend to use it on the Camino in 2017. However, would agree with you that I did initially miss having additional side pockets as found on many other makes. I also found that when carrying weight after a few days my shoulders became sore and I wanted more padding on the shoulder straps in the area on the top of the scapula and over the clavicle. Overcame this by adding some gel pads, which were a great relief.
Andrew, Guernsey Island

 

[StepheninDC]

Thanks for all of the great suggestions. I did end up purchasing the Osprey Manta AG 36, and over the weekend, I "loaded it up" with my gear. I put that in quotations because I don't have everything yet, it was a couple pairs of trousers, two merino shirts, two pairs of sock liners, 2 pairs of socks, an empty zip organizer, micro towel, spork, and silk sleeping bag liner. All of that weighed just 5 lbs (including the backpack). I of course have more things to bring, but I'm certainly happy with how light it is at this point!

 

[Kevin D.]

Just back home after a choir rehearsal and a trip to another REI store. Tried on 4 different packs, 3 Ospreys (Exos 58, Kestrel 38, and the Manta 36 again), as well as a Deuter ACT 50+10. Definitely liked the Deuter for a lot of reasons, especially the adjustable torso. I also liked how you can open the top and see all the way down into the pack. My favorite, though, is still the Osprey Manta 36. It has an anti-gravity suspension that does what they claim. I had 10lbs loaded in there and I felt like I had no weight on me at all. The shoulder straps fit snugly but not overly so. And the sternum strap fit just right (although you can adjust it up and down) Really like that pack!

I

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

I used a Osprey Stratos 36. It fit me perfectly. I'm 6.1. 185lbs. I really liked the upper pocket. While I was walking everything was on top that I needed. Easy to get to.It has a top entry and a back zippered flap for easy access to the bottom of you need too. Also the back mesh was so breathable I didn't sweat on my back. I will be taking it again on my next Camino. It also come in a 50liter.Check it out.

 

[StepheninDC]

I

I used a Osprey Stratos 36. It fit me perfectly. I'm 6.1. 185lbs. I really liked the upper pocket. While I was walking everything was on top that I needed. Easy to get to.It has a top entry and a back zippered flap for easy access to the bottom of you need too. Also the back mesh was so breathable I didn't sweat on my back. I will be taking it again on my next Camino. It also come in a 50liter.Check it out.

Thanks, yeah I saw the Osprey Stratos 36 online and also saw the little video they have about it. Unfortunately, no stores in my area have it in stock, and as you know, a backpack is something you absolutely have to try on in person before buying. Thanks for your suggestion, though, I appreciate it!

 

[alaskadiver]

Thanks, yeah I saw the Osprey Stratos 36 online and also saw the little video they have about it. Unfortunately, no stores in my area have it in stock, and as you know, a backpack is something you absolutely have to try on in person before buying. Thanks for your suggestion, though, I appreciate it!

Amazon also sells Osprey and has free returns. Assuming you have Prime membership.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E0ERKY6/?tag=casaivar02-20

 

[HikeTall]

I

I used a Osprey Stratos 36. It fit me perfectly. I'm 6.1. 185lbs. I really liked the upper pocket. While I was walking everything was on top that I needed. Easy to get to.It has a top entry and a back zippered flap for easy access to the bottom of you need too. Also the back mesh was so breathable I didn't sweat on my back. I will be taking it again on my next Camino. It also come in a 50liter.Check it out.

I have the Osprey Stratos 34 & 50L and love em. But I believe the OP has already chosen the Osprey Manta for his walk. Great choice.

Interesting note, Osprey just announced NEW Stratos packs that will use the Anti Gravity system. Just like the Atmos, the Manta, and the upcoming Aether packs. Seems like Osprey is really pushing this new suspension system. I love it on the Atmos. But I hope they don't do it on all their packs. I like a mix of packs that use different suspension systems.

 

[StepheninDC]

I have the Osprey Stratos 34 & 50L and love em. But I believe the OP has already chosen the Osprey Manta for his walk. Great choice.

Interesting note, Osprey just announced NEW Stratos packs that will use the Anti Gravity system. Just like the Atmos, the Manta, and the upcoming Aether packs. Seems like Osprey is really pushing this new suspension system. I love it on the Atmos. But I hope they don't do it on all their packs. I like a mix of packs that use different suspension systems.

Yes, you're correct, I did end up buying the Osprey Manta 36, and I do love it. Interesting that Osprey is planning to put the AG system on the Stratos models, I did not know that. BTW this might be because my pack is still pretty light, but I remember in the REI store where I tried it on, the hip belt sat fairly low, essentially around my hip bone. With it "full," it rode up higher. I put the word "full" in quotations because I don't have a whole lot of gear in there yet, and I haven't tried it on with a full reservoir of water, either. Maybe that'll push it down a bit. In the store I tried it on with a 10# bag of rice.

 

[StepheninDC]

Amazon also sells Osprey and has free returns. Assuming you have Prime membership.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E0ERKY6/?tag=casaivar02-20

Thanks, yep, I'm a proud Amazon Prime member. I try not to return stuff too much, though. (although I did just today return a copy of John Brierley's book because I saw there's a newer edition of it available now.)

 

[HikeTall]

Yes, you're correct, I did end up buying the Osprey Manta 36, and I do love it. Interesting that Osprey is planning to put the AG system on the Stratos models, I did not know that. BTW this might be because my pack is still pretty light, but I remember in the REI store where I tried it on, the hip belt sat fairly low, essentially around my hip bone. With it "full," it rode up higher. I put the word "full" in quotations because I don't have a whole lot of gear in there yet, and I haven't tried it on with a full reservoir of water, either. Maybe that'll push it down a bit. In the store I tried it on with a 10# bag of rice.

Yup. For 2017, Osprey announced new Talon packs, new Stratos packs(with anti gravity suspension) & new Aether packs(with the AG too)...REI has them on their website but for pre-order only. Haven't found them on Amazon or anywhere else yet. No reviews or videos anywhere. My guess is that they'll be coming by March.

 

[Stuart Price]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

I just completed the Camino Frances in the fall of 2016. I used the Osprey Stratos 36. It was the perfect size. You definitely don't need anything bigger. It breathes well and was excellent in every way. Would highly recommend it.

 

[BrianForbesColgate]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017.

Not for everyone, but I've spent enough time in the Army to know that the thing that I need right now is likely at the bottom of my pack! An earlier version of this pack was my choice.
The link is to the ULA Camino 2, a panel loader, vice top loader.
http://www.ula-equipment.com/product_p/panel-loader-with-top-collar.htm

 

[trecile]

If money were no object I'd like to have this panel loader from Zpacks.

 

[AlexanderAZ]

Yup. For 2017, Osprey announced new Talon packs, new Stratos packs(with anti gravity suspension) & new Aether packs(with the AG too)...REI has them on their website but for pre-order only. Haven't found them on Amazon or anywhere else yet. No reviews or videos anywhere. My guess is that they'll be coming by March.

I'm not finding the pre-orders or any info re updates to Talon or Stratos for 2017. Got a link?

 

[HikeTall]

I'm not finding the pre-orders or any info re updates to Talon or Stratos for 2017. Got a link?

Yup. Here's the link for the new Talon & Stratos AG packs:

New Talon Packs:
https://www.rei.com/search.html?q=Talon&ir=q:Talon&page=1

New Stratos AG packs:
https://www.rei.com/search.html?q=osprey+stratos&ir=q:osprey+stratos&page=1

 

[AlexanderAZ]

Yup. Here's the link for the new Talon & Stratos AG packs:

New Talon Packs:
https://www.rei.com/search.html?q=Talon&ir=q:Talon&page=1

New Stratos AG packs:
sprey+stratos&page=1

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Now if it can only arrive before the swelling heat does so I can get some miles in!

 

[Shanblistered]

I'm looking at backpacks for my upcoming (and first) Camino, which is in June 2017. I've been to several stores and tried on several packs, about 10 so far. I'm looking for recommendations from other peregrinos. So far I've been impressed with two models in particular, because of the way they sit on my hips and shoulders. Both models are from Osprey. They are:

Manta AG 36
Kestrel 38

I'm 5'4" and weigh 135 lbs, so I'm looking at packs with capacity less than 40L. (which I keep having to point out to sales staff trying to sell me 60L packs!) I know from reading here and trying things on that different packs feel different to everyone, but I'm trying to get some advice on what to look for. For instance, on me, the Manta AG sits nicely on the hips, but yesterday when I tried one on for the second time, the sternum strap felt very tight and the length was maxed out-maybe I need to adjust the height? The Kestrel did better in that regard, but it has fewer pockets and the back of it has less airflow (key since I'll be in Spain when it's hot). I'm also really interested in two additional models, the Stratos 34 and the Exos 38, but no stores near me have them in stock. I don't want to purchase something sight unseen over the internet and have to return it later. I have read good things about other backpack manufacturers on here, but a lot of them seem to be only available in the UK, Australia or NZ. Anyway, all recommendations or suggestions cheerfully received!

HI!! I actually used Kestrel 38 for my first camino in 2015 Summer. It was a great pack, however, in hind sight, I think a lighter pack would be better. The pack is perfect for everything to fit, including a water bladder if you wanted to add that feature for your journey. But the pack itself (in my humble) opinion on the heavier side. Though it is doable. Don't get me wrong. I however threw it away after the Camino because I had bedbug issues along the way. If I can't find a lighter pack, I may go back to it. The greatest feature the raincover. Also, pack as light as possible... with lots of blister preventing materials. Buen Camino~

 

[james walter purdum iv]

i used the osprey 50l anti gravity and it was splendid. i liked the fact that my gear didn't fill it up so getting to my things was so easy and it has a bottom compartment for shoes and/or sleeping bag that is accessible without opening the top. also it has a small pouch at the top that can be taken off to use as a small bag for your valuables as you go to dinner or see the towns.

 

[james walter purdum iv]

thats me on the right