Don't really have a strong opinion for or against specific types of packs. Some features though....<br><rant on><br>Don't get any pack designed where there is a strain load accross a zipper! If there must be a zipper it should be at the top so when it splits open due to over stuffing or falling on it your stuff won't be as likely to spill out. Zippers are very convenient but they should not be relied upon. If you can close it with a cord and flap for rain protection then don't use a zipper. I have had back and side loading pockets and packs with zippers running lengthwise of the pack and they have invariably split open when I was more that a days walk from civilization. Yes you can strap some compression straps around and make it back or lacking compression straps use the paracord wrapped around your psk. it will never seal well enough to ensure that things are not falling out as you walk. Get a top loading pack with pockets that load from the top. If you need to get a pack with two compartments make them both top loading and make sure that it comes with strapping that will support the lower compartment so that the zipper between doesn't take the strain. then always snug that strapping. Those packs that have a big U shapped zipper that lets the entire back of the pack peal downward and give you great access to your stuff aren't worth the time it takes to burn them. There is no way to make a zipper strong enough to handle reasonable use in that configuration and there aren't enough straps on earth to take the strain off that zipper. If you strap / tie it up enough to take the strain off that zipper then you have lost all of the convenience of the big zipper in the first place cause you must unstrap and untie to get in. Get a top loader and deal with taking the stuff on the top out to get at the stuff on the bottom. Just deal with it. <br></rant off>