Low Profile, but Sturdy Backpack

[RatDrall]

I'm looking for a backpack that would hold up to a few serious hikes, but wouldn't look strange (molle webbing, lots of clips, etc. hanging off of it) if it were taken on a plane or worn around town.

Any ideas?

 

[Carolina River Rat]

If you're willing to spent the cash, Duluth Pack makes excellent stuff. They use leather and canvas and look really old school and classy. It'll also probably out-live you and get used by your children. Another good one to look at is Osprey.

 

[Marcelo Cantu]

If bylow profile you mean physically you cannot go wrong with an Arc'terryx RT-25. for dayhikes or spartan overnighters through rough terrain and then trekking through town. It is the cat's meow. Good balance that moves with you and doesn't snag in the bush.

 

[ROCK6]

I like both Gregory and Osprey for non-mil packs. I recently snagged a Gregory Z25 for under $100...it's a great day pack that gives you the option of water bladder or water bottles (or both). I like for light hikes or mountain biking where low-profile is really a good thing. Another good feature about the Z25, is that it does have a small tubular aluminum frame and the pack will compress very small and flat if needed.

ROCK6

 

[Snow]

Osprey makes great packs, as does REI for a low price point.

 

[Angus McGunnigl]

REI has a heckuva deal right now on thier Lookout Pack 32 bucks online.

REI also has very good customer service. If it ever needs repair, even from outright abuse, they can fix usually free or very cheap.

32 dollars is a deal