There ya go, get the SpecOps for ED use and pick up a couple of decent middle quality packs large enough for your vehicles. You could probably do that for the $300 you were going to originally spend on the 2 SpecOps packs, and this way you get 3 packs (and maybe some cash left over for equipment) and you get THE PACK for every day use, which is really what you probably want anyway!

And I agree about www.cheaperthandirt.com and have bought from them for a long time. This would make a pretty nice BP - not sure about hydration like the other pack you want, but way cheaper:
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/PACK120-1191-1376.html

And don't feel too bad, I just picked up one of these vests below and they have some other interesting vests for which I'm chomping at the bit, but they aren't necessarily military manufacture.
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/itemfind.asp

I'm guessing that few folks here don't have a bit of the gearhead in them and even the super-cheap folks get some gear envy now and then. :-)

For those who might not know, A.L.I.C.E and M.O.L.L.E packs are two different systems for attaching pouches, equipment, etc. All-purpose, Lightweight, Individual, Carrying Equipment and MOdular Lightweight Load-carryng Equipment are their designations and the former is a Vietnam-era design while the latter is in modern use.