I concur...create your own kit. One, it's fun and Two, you get to put in stuff that will actually work.

Now, as to hiking...if you are talking actually hiking trips on trails...ALICE medium is might small cubic inches wide for multiple day trips. I have one that I use as my BOB, but for longer treks, I have a Kelty. ALICE is also good for minimalist camping...but for traditional hiking, I would look at purchasing a regular pack...trust me, they are way more comfortable than an ALICE with a frame, can carry more geart thus making you more comfortable at camp and creates a more enjoyable trip. Just my opinion. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />