Looking for backpack recommendations

[CShepherd]

I am in the market for a bit larger daypack. My wife and I are looking forward to hiking some with our two girls. One is 4 and the other is 16 months. Granted it won't be very long or difficult hikes but we tend to like a leisurely pace anyways.

What I'm looking for are suggestions for size of pack. I have an average size daypack and it is just way too small and way too uncomfortable when loaded with the stuff we need. I keep leaning towards something in the 1,800 - 2,500 cubic inch range. What do you all say?

Here's a rough idea of what I expect to be carrying.

• PSK
• cook kit (we like to cook a lunch while we're at our destination)
• first aid kit (bit bigger since we're all clutzes)
• rain gear
• water
• food (mostly freeze dried and snacks)
• change of clothes for the girls (they love water)
• towel for after the mentioned water.
• tarp and rope (to weather quick storms that may blow through)
• bug dope and sunblock
• snacks
• map/compass
• explorer kit (dipnet for minnows and tadpoles, ziploc bags to put them in temporarily, and other misc items to explore with)
• diaper/wipes
• tp and ziplocs to carry out tp
• and other misc stuff I'm sure I'm forgetting.

Now my wife will carry some of this but her back doesn't hold up as well due to a herniated disc and related surgery years ago.

My oldest one will carry a little bit but if I over burden her now she won't enjoy it and I'm trying to make this fun so they will want to do it.

Anyway, I do not mind specific suggestion but I am on a budget of around $75 max.

Figured you guys here who get to do this a bunch more that we can do can save me some heartache, headache, and wasted money.

Thanks so much,

Charlie

 

[vret]

I was just on the REI website the other day and saw one of their packs on sale for around $50-60ish. I think it was the Look Out. See what ya think.

 

[desmobob]

My favorite "best buy" kind of daypack is the Kelty Redwing. You can usually find a last-year's model for cheap. They are great daypacks... big and durable.

One of REI's "Lookout" 2500ci daypacks is currently on sale for under $60.

Stay sharp,
desmobob

 

[ohen cepel]

May want to get your Wife a waist pack and not have her carry much. Not good if she's hurting or you have to find a way to get stuff out if her back gives out totally x hrs in.

I'm partial and look to Eagle Industries, London Bridge or Tactical Tailor for all my gear now. It won't fail and it's made in the US.

I have an older Eagle and love the option that is has side pouches that allow me to easily increase it's size if needed. That would give you some flexibility if you need it which is always good.

Sorry, I don't have a direct answer to your question. If an REI or LL Bean is nearby maybe you can check one out first hand and see what size is going to work for you.