Need a pack for my GF.

zpacks has two packs under your price point that are larger than the ion but not too large

prolitegear.com has the GG Virga available in a short size on sale for $87 … although that's twice the volume of the ion, would she need something that large?

Several companies are closing out women's GoLite Jam2 and Pinnacle packs for less than $80. And you'll need to measure her torso to get the right size.

Have her go to a good outfitter, get measured, and try out all the packs in the store that fit her (with the amount of weight that she will likely carry).
I have had packs that 'should' have been a good fit but I hated the way they felt when loaded.

Packs are fairly personal items. I've tried gifting packs with poor results, and when you think about it, those of us really into pack gear would be terrible gift recipients when it comes to packs — picky sorts :)

My point is, I would bite the bullet and let her try a bunch on and pick one out. Unless she has the UL zeal, good luck!

Would she be offended by one that was used once? They float up in the evil bay pretty often, sold by disappointed husbands, and don't usually go that high, like quality men's stuff. You know the story.

hey Chris,
a few years back I was struggling to find a pack for my petite sized wife. After numerous unsuccessful fittings we finally got her into a ULA Conduit and it worked perfectly. Pretty sure they are $100 and a real solid pack. Better still it is a great do everything pack as long as I have an appropriote sized pack to go along with our adventure.

Gossamer Gear packs are reasonably priced and come in all sizes. They have had a rotating sale on their different packs for the last 2 months or so. The G4 is marked down, currently, or you could spend a few more and snag something from the 'Posa line. I highly recommend checking them out.