I had a similar dilemma, there were no large stores that carried the products I wanted to see. I chose to put my kits together first and then after knowing the size, choose the packs. I decided to build progressive BOBs, meaning that if a larger pack needed to be ditched or cached, a smaller PSK would be available as a part of the larger BOB.

Backpacking packs are IMHO, too light-duty to use for emergency preparedness purposes. I chose a heavier mil spec pack that can take more scuffing and abuse. Choices offered by Maxpedition are pretty nice but I understand there are other companies like Blackhawk and Kifaru that are also good.

I think for a 72 hour kit you need a 3-day pack. My progressive 2 person 72 hour BOBs will be within a Vulture II Maxpedition pack thqt is 2810 cubic inches. It's durable, holds a 100 oz camelback bladder and has the option of adding additional components such as the removable belt-pack that will be a part of my progressive planning. As far as comfort goes, I must depend on standards set up by the manufacturers military testing and other's testimonials for this type interior frame pack.

Here's some sites to study.....

Dale

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