backpack suggestions

[Kayaker72]

I own the Lowepro 350 Fastpack and Lowepro 400 AW (yep, you'll find it is a pretty popular bag). The 400 AW has become my main backpack as it holds a fair amount of gear and it is very light (~3.5 lbs). The other reason I bought mine was I got a great deal on one that was used (~$80). In searching for it, I noticed that ebay very consistently has the Lowepro 400 AW for very reasonable prices (ship from China). Right now they have it for $62. I agree, the fact that the back flap doesn't open all the way does get annoying and makes accessing the bottom part of the compartment very difficult. But, overall, it is a great bag. I would look at it and the flipside 500 to hold all your gear.

In addition to Lowepro, other backpacks I've been very tempted by (or at least brands): Gura Gear, f-stop (for more serious backpacking), Think Tank, and Kata.

Just in case you want to look around.

Good luck.

[HDNitehawk]

In addition to Lowepro, other backpacks I've been very tempted by (or at least brands): Gura Gear, f-stop (for more serious backpacking), Think Tank, and Kata.

I own the Lowepro Pro Trekker 400AW and also a Tamrac Expedition 9X.
I would say they are both about equal. Both keep your stuff safe, have a fair amount of room. To me neither shines over the other. For short hikes they are ok.
For most people they work fine. If keeping your stuff secure, do short hikes, need versatile storage then they will work fine.

But for serious backpacking I wouldn't recommend either Lowepro or Tamrac. Neither are comfortable on long hikes, I am in the market for a better alternative.