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Everyday Backpack

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PostedFeb 7, 2012 at 7:13 pm

Looking for suggestions on a backpack for everyday use, it will also be used for domestic travel and day hikes. I recently got rid of all my backpacks and purchased a Jam during Golite's recent sale, I like the jam but it is a little large for everyday use. I like the look of the Osprey Kestrel and Stratos (Panel Loaders) but they are a little heavy and bit "fancier" then I need. Here is some general guidelines of what I am hoping to find. Any suggestions or ideas would be much appreciated. If you have a pack you think I may be interested in shoot me a PM, I have an 18 in. torso (usually a medium).

– Lightweight (< 2lbs )
– Stiff Backpanel (Huge textbooks books and Art supplies do not feel good rubbing against your back)
– Size: 25 L Minimum- 35 L Maximum
– Color: Not Girly, ha
– Load capacity as far as weight isn't to much of an issue.
– Panel Loading for easy access to all of my school supplies would be nice, although not absolutely necessary.
– Cheap: $100 Dolla' Bill Yall

EndoftheTrail BPL Member
PostedFeb 7, 2012 at 7:20 pm

"Stiff Backpanel (Huge textbooks books and Art supplies do not feel good rubbing against your back)">

Look into laptop backs with generous padding. I like packs with two main compartments — so that unlike a "one big hole" hiking pack, one doesn't have to disturb everything in order to fish out something or another.

PostedFeb 7, 2012 at 9:08 pm

Rivendell Mountain Works packs, mon frere.

http://rivendellmountainworks.com/

Rivendellmountainworks.com

For example, you can customize their Mariposa or Lupine model with a foam backing for about $80 – $90. It is likely that you’ll pay slightly more than $100 for a few customizations and shipping, but who here at BPL does not love Rivendell?

I will say that I am not an owner myself, but I have often thought them to be the perfect college school backpack, so I suggest them to you.

Anyway, even if you do not choose them, I wish you luck.

PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 4:38 am

I have actually looked in to the Rivendell packs but I haven't had any luck getting in contact with anyone. I will try again. they are cool looking packs for sure.

PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 9:31 am

while not a backpack, this is my everyday gig.
(scroll down for link)
though smaller than your ideals, i urge you–don't dismiss it.
it's beastly and packs ALOT.
while i may not always be able to fully zip the main compartment, inside contents are forever secure with two clips and a strong tug. also, it can lash so you can dash. often, i can fit my hockey gloves, two 32 oz. nalgenes, extra layers, snack, headlamp, bike lock and other negligibles in it without compromising safety and/or comfort. this is one of the may ways i've used it. the prominent feature is that a hipbelt sturdies the load — or not– depending on whether you need it, and moreover, doesn't impede overall function.
there are two compartments– the front (small) being ideal for pen, cell phone,…
and a larger compartment with metal key clip (emphasis on metal) as well as two inside (non-zippered) pockets that are deep (i've put credit cards in here numerous times and never considered them to have fallen out).
i've fastpacked 20's with this, loaded it with 25 lbs. of books and gear and cycled with it to and fro. it's simple (i like it) and takes the abuse i give it.
they don't make 'em like this anymore.
i own a similar version. 15 years and has yet to show signs of wear and tear.
based on the link i've sent, mine is essentially exactly the same, save
the reflective strips. in essence,
i've put my lowe through it's paces, and still do.
this gem is my tried and true.
BEEFY metal zippers (ykk#?– i'd hafto look) of yesteryear and old-skool pack material– both of which are rare finds these days.
consider it the F150's of "messenger" bags…
one word: workhorse.

http://gearx.com/lowe-alpine-peak-runner-belt-pack.html?googlebase&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cse&utm_campaign=GoogleShopping

PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 9:49 am

I use an Osprey Comet for my commuter pack – it fits my 16.5" laptop, additional reading, notebooks, rain gear, winter gear, power cords, stuff I pick up shopping, and water bottles. I love it, and the suspension is fantastic – I can carry 20 pounds of stuff around the city for 6 hours without my shoulders being sore. And when I get home I can dump it out and fill it with essentials for a hike and it's a very comfy dayhike bag.

HkNewman BPL Member
PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 9:52 am

Are you looking for something sleek and minimalistic? Or a pack that can carry laptop, printer, accessories, plus maybe a change of clothes for a business trip? I used my Camelbak BFM for the latter, replacing the hydration bladder with my slim MacBook in a protective sleeve when I traveled frequently for my work; ballistic nylon really works when shoving the pack in overhead stowage and the hard back panel was reassuring. Heavy but better than replacing a laptop in case of a blow.

Trill Daddy BPL Member
PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 3:59 pm

Get the GG Habenero. 28L, carries my computer, textbooks (when I was in school), and a lot more.

Get it!

Nick C. BPL Member
PostedFeb 8, 2012 at 7:04 pm

I’ve used a MEC Adventurer for lots of stuff including travel and short overnights.

A bit heavy (2.4 lbs) but cheap ($43 Canadian) if you are ever near an MEC store. Panel loading, detachable waist pack, and a simple, time-tested design.
_________
edited: to fix link

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