I have the big brother of this pack - the Lookout. Mine is the 2005 version. They've changed it for 2007. Good packs, good design, good build quality.

It really depends on how much gear you're hauling. My Lookout will hold 2700 cubic inches. That makes it a very large daypack or a small weekender. Anything bigger needs a rigid frame. I've used it for weekend snow camping trips in Yosemite when I was trying to travel extremely light, and it was a tad too small. I had to strap the sleeping bag on the bottom, and that's awkward.

The shoulder straps are comfortable and somewhat adjustable. The hip belt is very good, and does shift the load to your hips. The pockets on the belt are downright handy. I carry sunscreen and lip balm in mine. The water bladder pocket and tube routing is great. The side mesh pockets will carry water bottles, camera, binocs, etc, but are just a bit awkward to reach with the pack on. I use the top pocket for stuff I might need in a hurry - headlamp, FAK, etc. The older version had full-length zip pockets on each side that would hold a bunch of gear. One of mine is for a very small rain/wind suit, the other is for the emergency part of my 10 essentials, with room left over.

Overall I give REI packs a 4 out of 5. A lot of thought went into the design. They're quite well made. The only thing you'd have to consider is how big a bag you need. Personally I thing 1800 cubic inches is a good size for a temperate weather BOB.

Kevin B.