I'm a bit of a heretic. I agree with OldBaldGuy in that the extra pockets seem convenient for a while, but in the thick of an emergency or in the dark, become a liability, and as time passes. You do have a good chance of losing track of which pockets have which items and lord help you if you're barking instructions to someone else to pull items from it. It's much easier to keep track of fewer pouches IMHO...and they end up being more adaptable to various uses.

That said, I am HARD on packs. I have a number across all years and styles and keep going back to the same ones...LL Bean bookpacks. Here's why:

1) They have the right mix of small pocket/organizer area and large pocket space for me. The small organizer pocket has enough space for the items I'll need right way and/or frequently. I prefer the model where there is one large pocket, one smaller, and the organizer pocket.

2) They have a large Scotchlite reflective strip that works exceptionally well. I use a lot of my packs at night, in caves, etc. I've also used a couple of the packs as road signals when broken down in the midlle of nowhere at night. They shine back VERY well. The strip is also highly durable.

3) Want something special? LL Bean will build the pack to suit you (see their site in the bookpack section)

4) padded straps & back, all seams taped, durable as anything, heavy zippers, decent stitching, heavy duty luggage handle, etc.

5) They can also be had at yard sales...at some point they're not "cool" any more. Fine by me.

6) If I was buying one pack new, and it wasn't one of the LL Bean customs, it would be the stock Super Deluxe Book Pack...

7) Convenience and replaceability. I can order a pack and have it sent anywhere...they're fast shippers. I don't have to bother with learning where stuff is in a dozen or so different packs.

8) They come in loud colors...I'm not crazy about "actical" colors for emergency situations. I understand why those who like those colors get them. For me? I'll take neons and garish colors any day. Easier to spot and oddly enough, don't stand out the way a mil-spec or tactical looking system would.

I use them for BOBs, FAKs, Car Kits, gear packs, and daily use. I beat mine against rocks and trees, wash them when needed, etc. I've had a single strap fail in 20 years or more.

BTW, they do have packs with more compartments.