Originally Posted By: hikermor
I am intrigued at the extent to which this thread has focused on the tactical type of day pack, which in my experience, aren't all that great. .....If one is looking for a good, versatile, tough pack, seek out something that is designed for climbing and summit use. There are lots of packs available from brands like REI, LLBean, North Face, Kelty, Gregory, Patagonia,(among others) which will be well constructed and designed and will last for years of hard use (like the Camelback that Ben mentioned earlier). .....
Hikermor, I just don't think you appreciate the importance of being "Tacticool". smile

Originally Posted By: hikermor
Realistically, I don't think you will get a decent back pack for twenty bucks these days. Plan on spending more and doing the research and trials. You will be glad you did.
In packs, there is well made, full featured, and cheap. Pick which two you want. Or, as the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for!"
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