Camino backpack suggestion - finding the sweet spot

[fenix]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

 

[novice2017]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

Yep, I just picked up this pack as well. In a perfect world I wish one could tuck the shoulder straps and hip belt in somehwere so that it could function as a true carry on as well. I agree about the hydration pocket. I figured I would use it for my tablet. Buen Camino

 

[Camino Chris]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

Thank you so much for that information. I haven't made a final decision yet, but I am looking for that size pack with many (but not all) of the features you are desiring. So is this pack an REI brand called "Trail 40" or some other brand they sell?

 

[fenix]

Thank you so much for that information. I haven't made a final decision yet, but I am looking for that size pack with many (but not all) of the features you are desiring. So is this pack an REI brand called "Trail 40" or some other brand they sell?

It's REI Co-op brand. You can find it online at the link I posted, or in the REI stores.
Cheers!

 

[Camino Chris]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

It's REI Co-op brand. You can find it online at the link I posted, or in the REI stores.
Cheers!

Oops, I guess I missed noticing the link...duh!

 

[fenix]

Oops, I guess I missed noticing the link...duh!

 

[trecile]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

I love my Marmot Graviton 36. Very lightweight at only 2 lb 4 ounce. Zips open all the way, or you can unzip just the top, bottom or side. It has a trampoline style back to keep you cool. Internal hydration pouch. I like that the stretchy mesh side pockets are not covered by the compression straps - you have the option of threading them underneath the pocket. The only downside I found is that I couldn't find one to test out before I bought it. I had to order it online, but I have no regrets.

 

[edandjoan]

Osprey Mira 34...this years updated model. Comes in two sizes.
I tried on the Marmot..one size fits most...not me.
I personal use the Gregory Jade 28 size M/L...making it a 30 liter.
But the Osprey has some nice features and my husband like his Osprey Manta 36, the male version.

 

[fenix]

I love my Marmot Graviton 36. Very lightweight at only 2 lb 4 ounce. Zips open all the way, or you can unzip just the top, bottom or side. It has a trampoline style back to keep you cool. Internal hydration pouch. I like that the stretchy mesh side pockets are not covered by the compression straps - you have the option of threading them underneath the pocket. The only downside I found is that I couldn't find one to test out before I bought it. I had to order it online, but I have no regrets.

Oh my goodness, that looks like another unicorn pack! I may have to try that one out too!

(I take such shameless advantage of REI'S liberal return policy.)

 

[Swift3]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

Here is something else you might like from REI.
All the features you want, great support and loading onto hip belt via aluminum tube frame, zipper loading from top, side or bottom, and at only 2lb 4.5 oz.!
https://www.rei.com/product/110905/marmot-graviton-36-pack-womens

 

[fenix]

Here is something else you might like from REI.
All the features you want, great support and loading onto hip belt via aluminum tube frame, zipper loading from top, side or bottom, and at only 2lb 4.5 oz.!
https://www.rei.com/product/110905/marmot-graviton-36-pack-womens

Yes, that's the one trecile posted about above as well. I like Marmot clothing, but have never given their packs a look. But I actually just ordered it and will give it a try.

Do you use it too?

(Seriously, I have a rotating order, test & return habit with REI. I need help. There must be a 12-step gear obsession rehab, right?)

 

[trecile]

Oh my goodness, that looks like another unicorn pack! I may have to try that one out too!

(I take such shameless advantage of REI'S liberal return policy.)

I just discovered that REI is carrying this pack now!!
https://www.rei.com/search.html?q=graviton&ir=q:graviton&page=1

 

[Swift3]

Do you use it too?

(Seriously, I have a rotating order, test & return habit with REI. I need help. There must be a 12-step gear obsession rehab, right?)

On our CP last year, my daughter used a new model Gregory Jade 53 and I used the, then, new model Zulu 55L. We liked both of them a ton, particularly the great structure and way the frame stays transfered the load to the hip belt. Made the load like carrying a quarter of its actual weight. But each is around 3 to 4 lbs and we just didn't need all the space (though it came in handy for having a place to tuck away small souvenirs purchased along the way). But at 2lbs 4 to 9 oz for a Graviton, if I was picking gear this year instead of last, I'd go with the Graviton in a New York minute.

On other somewhat long (multi day hut to hut hikes with about 2o-25 lbs, but not as long as the CF or CP) hikes, she's used a 50L GoLite Jam and I've used a Gossamer Gear Gorilla. We liked them both fine and they really are incredibly light, but we opted not to use them with the internal stay pad structure, and go with something more structured, all-be-it heavier, in the Gregories. We just found them much easier to carry. So, if you were thinking of an unltralight bag like a ULA or GG or something similar, and lots of people use them and love them, I'd still pick something with more structure like the Gregory, or Deuter, or this new Marmot Graviton (which would be my first pick, assuming that it fit well - which, before weight and structure, is the key to happy hiking).

 

[Camino Chris]

Yes, that's the one trecile posted about above as well. I like Marmot clothing, but have never given their packs a look. But I actually just ordered it and will give it a try.

Do you use it too?

(Seriously, I have a rotating order, test & return habit with REI. I need help. There must be a 12-step gear obsession rehab, right?)

Funnnyy!

 

[fenix]

So, if you were thinking of an unltralight bag like a ULA or GG or something similar, and lots of people use them and love them.....

No, I've used an ultralight bag before. Did some sections on the Appalachian Trail with a Six Moon Designs pack. It was fine, but I really prefer some structure and other features. I'm working on the rest of my gear and clothing being more minimalist and ultralight, but not my pack.

 

[GreatDane]

I have a 15" (XS/S) torso so the number of packs - even woman's packs is a small set. I own umpty squat Osprey packs that work just fine as luggage when flying, regional day hikes etc. But twice now I've used my Mammut Cria Light as my camino pack. The Ospreys loaded with my camino kit were not comfortable. The Mammut Cria Light with my camino kit? Once I have it on my back adjusted properly I can't feel that it is there.

 

[Swift3]

Mammut Cria Light

Which size, GD? 30L? 40L? And what was the pack weight, "dry"? Did you miss not having a second hip belt pocket?

 

[Susan in GA]

Just wanted to share a find I made last week in case it can help anyone.

I have sworn by Deuter packs for years. Low weight, adjustable torso, women specific, nice number of features without being over the top. I have 2 Deuters - a 60+10 ActLite and, more recently, a 45+15 ActZero. Great wilderness packs.

I took the first one on camino a few years ago, and had no complaints. Yeah it was overkill volume-wise, but super comfy. I was planning to carry the ActZero this year, but wasn't loving its top-loading aspect for albergue life and thinking it would be nice to go smaller.

Looked at smaller packs, including Deuter 28L ActTrail (not adjustable, not comfortable), couldn't find that "sweet spot" camino pack that would justify spending money on a new pack.

The camino sweet spot, in my mind, is a pack that is a perfect combination of pure lightweight (but not minimalist) backpack specs + the extra convenience of travel luggage (some "bells & whistles", so to speak, that make it more comfortable to live out of for weeks on end).

Looking for:

• 35-40 liters - roomy, no cramming stuff in, but not overkill
• Women specific, personally comfortable
• Less than 3 lbs
• Good suspension, padded hip belt, air channel, etc.
• Not just top-loading - and, ideally, front panel loading
• 2/3 side mesh pockets, 2 hip belt pockets, front mesh pocket, etc - organizational "bells & whistles"
• Less than $200

After much internet research, I had given up on this unicorn pack's existence, but stumbled across it accidentally while browsing at REI (always a dangerous way to pass time). It has all of the above, and more. Men's & women's versions. Not an adjustable torso, but 2 sizes for overlapping torso lengths, so get measured and try both if you check it out. (Surprisingly, despite being only 5'2", the M was better than S for me.)

REI Trail 40

It retails at just $109, and I bought it with 20% off that. Loaded it up and took a 13 mile hike a few days ago, and it was brilliant.

It's only flaw is that the hydration pouch is external, against your back, between the shoulder straps. It is so tight, it's pretty much useless. But I don't use a hydration bladder system on multi-day hikes, so that wasn't a dealbreaker for me.

Anyway, pack choice is personal, but this one is really worth checking out if you're still searching.

I found it online at REI.com for a little over $50 (one color and size only) - decided to take a chance and ordered it. I'm hoping that I've found my Camino pack!

 

[fenix]

I found it online at REI.com for a little over $50 (one color and size only) - decided to take a chance and ordered it. I'm hoping that I've found my Camino pack!

Really, for the Trail 40? Wow, what a deal!

Hope it works for you.

 

[jmcarp]

My wife used an REI Lookout 40, women's fit, on our 2013 Camino Francés and was pleased with it. She also wore it our 2015 Camino del Norte a Chimayó (US) and will wear it again on our CP later this spring. The current model https://www.rei.com/product/854046/rei-co-op-lookout-40-pack-womens is an upgrade from the 2013 version--I'm not sure what the difference is between the two, but I've attached a photo of hers below, which you can compare to the current one in the link included above.

 

[selahilo]

I highly recommend the OMM classic 32, very light and never had water get in.

 

[GreatDane]

Which size, GD? 30L? 40L? And what was the pack weight, "dry"? Did you miss not having a second hip belt pocket?

I have the 40L weighing in at 1 kg empty. On the trail it is only filled to about 30L or so. When flying to (as carry-on) and from Madrid (sent through as luggage) it also contains my hiking boots, trekking poles and other goodies I don't need to access or wear during my flights. Gives me room to store groceries. I hike in my Macabi skirts so the lack of one of the hip belt pockets doesn't bother me!

 

[Swift3]

I have the 40L weighing in at 1 kg empty. On the trail it is only filled to about 30L or so. When flying to (as carry-on) and from Madrid (sent through as luggage) it also contains my hiking boots, trekking poles and other goodies I don't need to access or wear during my flights. Gives me room to store groceries. I hike in my Macabi skirts so the lack of one of the hip belt pockets doesn't bother me!

Awesome weight! And nice that you can actually get your boots and poles in there for the flights. Daughter and I each put our packs-full of the stuff we would take in it on the Camino, boots, and poles all in separate duffel bags and had a separate "stuffs in its own pocket and weighs next to nothing" Sea to Summit sil-nylon traveler pack for the flights, then sent the duffels, together with our on-plane and other "tourist" clothes, on to Ivar once we started. Sounds like a great pack and system for you!

 

[MichelleElynHogan]

Mozone 40L from amazon.ca is like 1 lb and costs CDN$35.99. Check out all the reviews before purchase to ensure you know exactly what this bag provides, and what it does not.

 

[fenix]

Mozone 40L from amazon.ca is like 1 lb and costs CDN$35.99. Check out all the reviews before purchase to ensure you know exactly what this bag provides, and what it does not.

Thanks for the tip, but I'm afraid this wouldn't be an advisable pack for anyone - wilderness or camino. It appears to be geared towards light travel carry-on or things like beach/picnic outings.

It has no suspension, and no hip belt, and user photos indicate it is fragile and rips easily.

 

[intrepidtraveler]

Yes, that's the one trecile posted about above as well. I like Marmot clothing, but have never given their packs a look. But I actually just ordered it and will give it a try.

Do you use it too?

(Seriously, I have a rotating order, test & return habit with REI. I need help. There must be a 12-step gear obsession rehab, right?)

Let me know if you find that 12-step rehab program for gear obsession. I should probably attend at least a few meetings.

The clerks at REI will likely breathe a collective sigh of relief when my plane takes off in May.

 

[MichelleElynHogan]

Thanks for the tip, but I'm afraid this wouldn't be an advisable pack for anyone - wilderness or camino. It appears to be geared towards light travel carry-on or things like beach/picnic outings.

It has no suspension, and no hip belt, and user photos indicate it is fragile and rips easily.

Of course, it depends on how much weight you are carrying. But consider this. My first choice pack is an Qsprey Kestrel 48 that has all the bells and whistles, but it weighs close to 3 lb., empty. But of you are only carrying a minimum of belongings of say, 10 - 12 lb., a hip belt would be nice but not essential.

On a costing aspect, the Kestrel is a lot more than the Mozone.

Funny note: Returning from my first Camino, I purchased a smaller, Osprey Stratus 34. When I weighed it, due to changing designs, the empty Stratos 34 actually seems to weigh about 1 ib more than the empty Kestrel 48. Newer packs are evolving getting lighter as designs and lighter materials are being used.

If a hip / waist belt is essential, Amazon has a number of options in the 40L size and some are as cheap as CND$60.00. But, as with any chioce, do the research.

 

[C clearly]

But of you are only carrying a minimum of belongings of say, 10 - 12 lb., a hip belt would be nice but not essential.

I think it is essential, for best comfort and endurance!

 

[trecile]

I think it is essential, for best comfort and endurance!

I agree! Why put all that strain on your back and shoulders?

 

[MaisyQ]

I love my Marmot Graviton 36. Very lightweight at only 2 lb 4 ounce. Zips open all the way, or you can unzip just the top, bottom or side. It has a trampoline style back to keep you cool. Internal hydration pouch. I like that the stretchy mesh side pockets are not covered by the compression straps - you have the option of threading them underneath the pocket. The only downside I found is that I couldn't find one to test out before I bought it. I had to order it online, but I have no regrets.

I love this pack but am worried it will not meet the carry on requirements - and i do not want to check my pack.

 

[trecile]

I love this pack but am worried it will not meet the carry on requirements - and i do not want to check my pack.

Technically it is a little bit too long for carry-on, but I did carry it on almost all my flights on United and Lufthansa. Except after my first Camino Lufthansa offered to check it for free on my way home. Since I wasn't worried about it being delayed I took them up on it.
I have since purchased another backpack, the North Face Aleia 32, which is not quite as long and only weighs 31 ounces. It definitely is within carry-on size, but I haven't used it on a Camino yet.

https://www.thenorthface.com/shop/aleia-32-nf0a2scr#hero=0

 

[MaisyQ]

Thank you for that info. I’m going to look into the North Face pack. Hoping it fits well...Osprey packs don’t else I would be considered them as well.

 

[trecile]

The North Face pack comes in two sizes, and has an adjustable back.