pack comfort

John, I'm not sure if you're feeling the same thing I felt on the Flash 65. The square padding at the base of my back simply didn't keep the hard plastic from digging in once the pack was fully loaded. I walked around my house for a week with that thing hoping I would get used to it but eventually had to return it.

"1) the missing strap adjustments are the problem.
2) I packed it or adjusted it poorly. (I put my bag on the bottom and it causes the lower back pad to curve away from my lower back.)
3) there are any recommendations for a 30 – 35 L backpack that is more comfortable."

1.) Are you referring to the straps that come from the pack body to the hip belt just aft the lower back? These aren't actually needed if the pack fits correctly (think Mystery Ranch, Mchale). Having said that, because mass produced packs are produced to fit a wide variety of shapes, the straps are there to help 'custom fit' (which they never do).

2.)Try packing your bag loosely rather than stuffed. It will take up more space, but allow your pack to conform better to your back. Try a smaller garbage bag.

3.)I don't have any specific recommendations for a pack however I think you should consider one with a solid frame. It will weigh more but likely fit you better and there are not nearly as many issues with packing – stuff and go.

David,

I think my problem is different. The frame for the flash 30 is a semi rigid foam sheet that I dont feel at all. I cant tell if the weight distribution is off or if maybe my sleeping bag being rounded is pulling the support away from my back that I need. I am going to buy a flash 50 to see if it has the same problems. The only problem is that pack weights 42 oz. :(

What do you mean "try a smaller garbage bag"?

And do you have a recommendation for a solid frame pack that is lighter than the REI flash 50?

What am I trying to accomplish when I made adjustments? Am I trying to contour the pack to the shape of my back? If so what is the purpose of having a straight frame. I usually buckle the hip belt over my belly button. Should it be lower/higher?

My old backpack was uncomfortable for me but I just thought it was the amount of weight i was carrying but now with this ultralight 30L im wondering if it might just be me not understanding how to adjust the pack correctly.

What I think is happening is that the foam framesheet is contouring to the stuffed sleeping bag, rather than your back. So you are feeling a lump down there. Correct? If so, a stiffer framesheet would prevent you from feeling this. For example, a Granite Gear Vapor Trail has a flexible framesheet. If you pack it with a bulge at the bottom you will feel it. However, with the Granite Gear Nimbus Ozone with its stiff framesheet, you would not feel any such bulge. As far as what alternatives are out there – sorry, I am not as up to date on the available packs out there, but someone will chime in shortly.

Garbage bag – put your sleeping bag and / or insulative clothing in a small garbage bag and let it loft a bit so that it better conforms to your back.