I'm looking at getting a new pack to use everyday at the office and do double duty on weekends for day hikes. My only requirement is that it can't be tactical looking. I don't mind if its over kill for the office (over kill meaning larger then necessary or looks like I should be out hiking with it). I've done the briefcases, messenger bags and the like and want to get back to carrying a pack just for the comfort level (carrying a 12lbs laptop on top of usual office stuff adds up when its hanging off one shoulder).

I'm currently looking at the Mystery Ranch Sweetpea and Snapdragon (http://www.mysteryranch.com/s.nl/sc.11/category.10/.f). They both appear very close in dimensions, the Snapdragon is 2" taller and .5 inches wider but without the flap thing on the front.

Does anyone have any experience with these packs? I'm mainly concern if they are carry on sized, but any other points or comments are welcomed. If not these packs, what about some similiar brands and models? I don't mind blowing the cash for high priced items if it lasts.

Now the floor is open to you guys!
Kris

For reasonably priced alternatives, which also have many useful features for the price, checkout the North Face Recon and the LL Bean Continental Rucksack.

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How about the Ortleib Track 35

http://www.ortlieb.com/_pdf_en/track.pdf

LL Bean's "Bigelow" daypack has been a Backpacker magazine's "Editor's Choice." It's my favorite daypack. It's reasonable full-price and last year's model is on sale.

Check out the customer reviews.

http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/...ay+pack&Go=

(previous year version - orange one below) Was $79, now $49.99

newest version is $89 (black and grey one below, other colors are available)

The most important characteristic of any pack is that is fits and is comfortable for the user. You need to try it on in the store, loaded, and walk around with it a bit. If the store can't accommodate you, walk away and try somewhere else. If possible, borrow or rent one and take it on a trip.

Everybody and his brother makes good packs in the size range you are contemplating. Not surprising, because they all come out of about three factories in the same industrial district in China nowadays. Some brands I have enjoyed are REI, Arc'teryx, Mountainsmith, LL Bean, and Kelty.

I've gone over to a rolling bag. Too many steps between gates & too much gear.

Thanks Izzy for that url... I will check them out in the new year. I'm still thinking about the MR packs but I would love to try one out even if its in a store. I'm just not in a position to do it.

My fall back is getting Kelty Peregrine 1800 (http://www.kelty.com/p-265-peregrine-1800.aspx). I've had a chance to handle one and it'll do the job especially for the office.

Choices!

I second the LL Bean continental rucksack as a versatile bag for travel and day hiking. Holds 2000 cubic inches. Price can't be beaten at $40. Great value.