New Backpack recommendations

Right now, there isn’t anything better at carrying a decent load comfortably than Seek Outside. Take a look at the Divide—the pack bag is 70L but it collapses really well.

https://seekoutside.com/unaweep-divide-4500-ultralight-backpack/

I’ve “comfortably” carried over 100 pounds in one 7 miles and was no worse for wear.

I was in a similar situation just over a year ago and was advised to look at the Seek Outside Unaweep packs, ULA Catalyst, Ark Haul, and the HMG Porter. The Granite Gear packs were also suggested. In the end it became clear that it was my gear that was too heavy and I was looking for load haulers to accommodate it. So I’ve spent time and money cutting the weight from my shelter, sleep system and cooking kit, as well as picking up tips (from here mainly) on generally lightening up. Really glad now that I didn’t go for a hauler – I now carry a GG Gorilla!

Not saying this is what you necessarily need to do, but it I found it helpful. Nor does it mean spending a lot, as just the basic principles of lightweight backpacking can count for a lot.

Anyway, having been through the backpack search I’d always recommend giving packs a good tryout with the kind of weight you’re talking about. Most manufacturers seem ok with you trying a pack – but might be difficult if it’s a special to-order design. Keep an eye out on the Gear Swap forum too – you can always buy something, try it and then re-sell if it’s not for you. Good luck!

For 40lbs I agree with the Seek Outside Unaweep Fortress or Divide.

Other options would be the HMG Porter or Exped Lightning 60. The ULA Catalyst would probably do ok at that weight as well. That would probably be at the upper limit of the Arc Haul.

Not to detract from your question, but there’s something I’ve just got to know: how do you take a cake backpacking? It seems it’d get all smashed.

Anybody have any ultralight cake recipes?

Thanks for the input y’all.

I just tried on a Divide yesterday at the Mountain Shop Kyle, and it was pretty damn amazing.  This may sound dumb, but did it feel pretty good at low weights as well Kyle?  I also tried on an Osprey Exos, which handles a load well, but seems weaker in terms of fabric and durability.  However it did have all the little pockets and stuff that I like.

FYI, for anyone in the Portland OR area, the Mountain Shop has Seek Outside, Gossamer Gear, Cilo Gear, Hyperlite gear all out so you can try them on.  It was cool to see some of these packs in person.  I was impressed with all of them, even though most weren’t my thing.

My base weight is around 10lbs with my old 3.5 lb pack.  Ive lightened up as much as I can sanely afford at this point.  I just want something that won’t break my back when I have to camel up, or bring extra gear in the winter.  Once I hit 35+ on my old Gregory it was just painful.  Honestly, 75% of my trips are 25lbs and below, easy.  Im hoping I can hit that sweet spot for ultimate versatility and 4 season use.

I really appreciate the advice everyone.

.douchepacker.

I used the Seek Outside Unaweep at weights between 23 and 40 lbs and it felt great.