BackPack Recommendation

Elaine, It would help to know which Backpack brands you've already looked at? I use both Eagle Creek and Osprey Packs (depending on trip specifics) and both are excellent quality. The models that I use are both panel-load designs, have detachable Daypacks and a stowable harness systems (to prevent straps from being torn off by airport conveyor systems). If the recipient of the Pack is likely to carry it for any distance, a waist belt IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. This allows most of the weight to be carried on the hips rather than the shoulders, and the weight balance is usually adjustable on the shoulder straps. In choosing a Pack, one of the most important criteria is proper fitting for torso length, so buying a Pack which has some adjustment for this is a good idea. Cheers!

Looked at about six Kelty(s), Eagle Creek. and Patagonia. Another brand whose name I was not familiar with - and have already forgotten - we have looked at Dicks and another big-box sportsman store. I've looked online at Osprey and ebags, but am not finding the Cu In size coupled with anything that appears to have a Detachable Day Pack - which is the important thing to her. I know the waist strap is important, but, I'm not the one that needs to be convinced. She is not planning on hiking, this will be on her back only from airport to hostel, hostel to bus, etc etc etc. What I really would like are some brand names /model numbers - with detachable packs - so I can look at them online. THANKS

MEC has several back packs with detachable day bags. One can be purchased in Merlot colour. Don't know your price range but there are several different sizes. Check their web site.

Elaine, Although it's a bit larger than your specifications, one Pack that might be suitable is the Osprey Waypoint Women's 65 (small). It has a capacity of 3800 cu. in and is available in two colours. There's also the Farpoint 55 series which has detachable Daypacks and capacities ranging from 3100-3300 cu. in. The Osprey and Eagle Creek websites should have a section that lists their stocking dealers in various places around the world. The Eagle Creek Packs are a bit larger, so may not fit your criteria. You could also have a look at products from Red Oxx or Tom Bihn although their products don't have detachable Daypacks so you'd have to buy a separate Daypack. You might also have a look at the ETBD Convertible Backpack on this website, although again it would require a separate Daypack. Good luck with your shopping!

Thanks Bob and Ken: I"ll check these out online tonight. A slightly bigger pack might be better anyway - she's not petite and can handle it....and that's additional room then to bring home more treasures.

Hi, Browsing for convertible bags, noted this one with a detachable daypack. The model picture showing both packs on at same time looks odd to me, but it's nothing I'd try to wear myself :-) .. North Face Backtrack 50 http://www.ebags.com/product/the-north-face/backtrack-50/144582?productid=10003254

No suggestions, except to say that I'd get a pack WITH a waistbelt; she can store the belt away if she wants, but that's a larger (read 'heavy') pack to carry ONLY on the shoulders (and strongly encourage her to try out the waistbelt and sternum strap with a full load; she might change her mind...). Once upon a time, you couldn't find many packs that size WITHOUT a waistbelt... Good luck with the search, and don't let the cats near it; they do like to mark things ;-)

We'll keep it away from HER cat. Eileen, I have sprayed and scrubbed my suitcase, and I can't get the smell out. She "marked" only on the flap that zips aound the one side of the suitcase. I suppose I could cut that flap off, but I lose so much functionality that way. I am quite annoyed with that cat. Fortunately it will be moving with Daughter to Austin, or Chicago, this summer. MY cat would never do such a thing!!!! And you know it was my favourite suitcase, the one I was going to take to - The Wedding. ;-)

OK - Cut the flap/'lid' off, attach 4 legs to the bottom of the case, fill with travel memorabilia, then slap a piece of glass over the whole thing, and VOILA! a coffee table!!! You're welcome. I'm sure William and Kate SORRY! "Katherine" would send you a new case...just slip in a request when you RSVP... {favoUrite - nice touch ;-)}