1. The Deuter ACT Lite 45 + 10 SL
When I need a pack for anything from an overnight trip to a few days, this is the one I reach for first. It's reasonably light but sturdy, with a clean, well-thought-out design and shoulder/hip straps that offer just the right combination of cushiness and airflow, even on a hot day.
Read my full review.More »
2. The Granite Gear Nimbus Trace Access 60
The Granite Gear Nimbus Trace Access 60 feels remarkably nimble for a heavy-duty pack, carrying even awkward loads with grace and ease. It also has a really cool hook-and-loop access point in the bottom, and zips open for full access down the front. If you need a pack that can carry heavy loads for a week-long trip, stand up to abuse and still look good doing it, the Nimbus Trace Access is the obvious choice.
(Available for both men and women -- read my full review.)More »
3. The REI Flash 58
The REI Flash 58 weighs less than 3 pounds, but still stands up to reasonably heavy loads. It's a great balance between plenty of space, capacious, relatively simple compartments, and the literal flexibility to keep things balanced, even when you end up in awkward positions.
(This is a ladies' pack, but the Flash is also available for men.)
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4. The Osprey Ariel 65
You voted the Osprey Ariel 65 as the best large pack in our Reader's Choice poll. You said it has tons of space, great organization, and great access. There's also a nifty "AddOn" attachment, loops that let you attach a smaller pack to the Ariel -- no more hauling the detachable top compartment like a purse!
(This is another ladies' pack; the men's version, the Aether, is here.)More »