Backpacks - Is Bigger better?

[wildmanh]

Thanks for all the suggestions and info guys! totally changed my thoughts on how to choose my pack. I think i might end up getting a maxpedition Condor or even a Falcon for day trips and overnighters, and probably look into investing in a good quality framed pack for some of the longer hiking trips.
Originally I was looking at the Vulture as an in-between to a large capacity multi-day pack and a small day-pack, but if I'm going to be on the trail for more than a day I think comfort and weight-distribution will be a bigger issue than just capacity and molle straps lol.

Also, as far as the girlfriend goes, I'm pretty much a pack-mule. All backpacks seem to be "too big" for her.

Haze, I think you have the right idea. Get what ever day pack you want then get a nice backpacking pack for 2+ day trips.

Gregory, Alps, Kelty, Mountain Smith all make good packs. If you are looking for a semi big pack thats also really light weight, check out Golite and Granite Gear. They have packs that are 3800+ cu/in that weights under 3.5lbs and handles at least 35 pounds. I mention these last two companies incase you are interested in light or ultra-light gear. A draw back to the ultra-light packs are that you have to watch weight more because the pack handles less then regulare packs.

My pack for long trips is a Blackhawk Ruck Pack I got used for a really good price. With the removeable pouches on, it holds 6000cu/in, with out them it's 5120 cu/in. I'm getting a new light weight and compact sleeping system with my tax return, when I do, my medium Alice pack will be my 2-3 day pack in good weather. Inexpencive, strong and they work well. Sometimes I do want a Golite or Granite gear pack that weights 4lbs or less. This summer I might be backpacking for 3 to 4 days in an area of southern Utah that doesn't have much water. If I go, I'll take my Blackhawk ruck cause it can handle carrying tons of water.

 

[Widerstand]

If you ask me packs are like shoes... What works for me may not work for you.

I have never been able to find just one pack for all situations that I need a pack. I have a GG Solo pack for train hopping trips since it is tough, simple, and can hold everything I would want for winter riding, but the pack is almost 4lbs and that's to heavy for long summer hikes and I don't need something that big so I have a ultralight weight hiking pack, a day pack for short afternoon hikes and walks, a waterproof pack for riding my bike in the winter time, and a small haversack for minimalist trips.

 

[chad1043]

I have a now discontinued Dana Designs K2 Shortbed external pack. It works for me. I can load it light or heavy (over 70lbs). The suspension system is top notch.