Coleman and Jansport are both starting to but serious entry-level packs on the market. I've been happily surprised by what I've heard about them. Coleman is going through Walmart, and I've heard that Jansport may be retailing thiers through Target (I don't have one around to me, so I'm not sure). I know Jansport is in the Campor catalog.

Personally, I mouted a medium ALICE on a civilian external frame pack, and use that when I feel that the situation is such that I may have to bug out. I have space for my ditch kit on the frame above the pack, space for my sleeping bag below the bag and on the frame, and a bunch of paracord wrapped around the frame to make it more comfortable (3x35', 3x50'). Plans are to put an inexpensive hydration blader between the pack and my spine, as the frame curves.

Maxpedition gear is my favorite because I haven't been able to destoy it yet (and sometimes I do try). It's all equally tough so you have only to decide which piece suits your needs based on the size and how you prefer to carry it. My BOB is in a Vulture 3 (soon to be dicontinued) day pack. I would prefer it was lighter, but since I'm not willing to give up any durability... <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

My maxpedition is loaded up.