Originally Posted By: Bingley
So I'm looking for something
-- Is ergonomic, or at least comfortable to carry. I don't want to put more than 40 pounds of stuff in the bag.
-- Isn't too heavy.
-- Has many pockets/compartments for organization.
-- Has pockets in front of the body, so if I want to get something I don't have to set the bag down.
-- Does not make me stand out. (This, and the weight requirement, may rule out a lot of tactical bags.)

You may need to revisit your requirements first.
  • Lots of pockets/compartments for organization cause the pack to be heavy. If you want it light, reduce the overall number of pockets and unnecessary material.
  • Most any pack carrying anywhere near 40lbs is going to stand out. I assume you're wanting to carry good/comfortable shelter and overnight items to get to that weight? Generally, the smaller the pack, the less you will stand out.
You have to pick your pack only after you know what you need to put into it. While we all want to be prepared, really spend some time evaluating what you feel you are likely and even somewhat unlikely to encounter, sort your items and then pick the pack to fit. The closer you can get to a bag that resembles a general laptop bag or school bag, the better off you will be. Then just don't have it packed so full it looks like your splitting the seams. Ideally, needs to look more natural with extra space for a jacket, etc. If your circumstances are such that you need a large pack, you just have to give up staying under the radar.