That 'substandard' pack looks pretty good to me. Price doesn't always equate with quality and that goes both ways. My MEC Deluxe bookbag is one of the sturdiest packs I own and it only cost me $35.

I have the same problem with Weight Rusty. In my case it's because of my strong desire to carry the kitchen sink everywhere I go. Upgrading materials (like titanium) will give you some gains but at a cost. Being cheap I find the cost of Titanium to not be worth saving a couple of ounces out of a 50+ lb. pack.

I find the best way to save weight is to get rid of as many 'unitaskers' as possible. Get as much equipment as possible which serves more than one purpose. This is a battle I just started fighting and with this type of gear it's hard.