Bag found for me...still looking for travel pack for wife.

Its not a condition (perfectly healthy) and we are trying to avoid using the roller bags (we both have one already) as to make us more mobile. It is just that a bag with a soft back, like the RS or Jansport bag she tried, is not comfortable to carry, I think a pack with more padding and or a simple suspension would do the trick.

Sean, you might have a look at the Eagle Creek line of packs, as they have some models that are designed for a "woman's fit" (be sure to try the men's Packs also, as some women have stated these fit better than the women's design). Most of these are panel load (which I prefer). Any competent salesperson can measure torso length and fit the correct pack. As Kent mentioned, it's a REALLY good idea to load it up and walk around for a few hours to make sure the fit works.

You could also have a look at the Gregory packs. They're extremely well designed and good quality, but perhaps designed more for backcountry hiking than travel. Their web site explains the torso range issue quite well. Unfortunately, many of these are top loaders, which I'm not partial to.

EC Packs have an excellent warranty which I have used, therefore I can state from experience that they DO stand behind their products. Be sure the sales person explains the proper way to use the load leveling straps, etc.

I agree with Keen. Eagle Creek backpacks are the best.they are light, durable, roomy, but a bit expensive. I got one from REI for $75, it's the Traveller Trek line, 2100 cu.in. It got hide away straps, aluminum center tray, and it's just 2 lbs.

The Rick Steve's bags are excellent and should be looked at. I use a Patagonia MLC (maximum legal carry-on) and my wife uses an Eagle Creek ladies carry-on size pack. Both are on the pricier side, but for me the Patagonia has been amazing. It's turned into my short stay business travel bag too...

"The Rick Steve's bags are excellent and should be looked at." But you're not using them, so how can you recommend them? :)

Look at the website onebag.com. They don't sell bags but have reviews of different carry on bags and daypacks as well as tips on packing. It may help you with your search.

To Nancy's comment: That's correct, I don't use one. But I have seen and handled a few and I feel they are worth investigation if you are in the market for a new bag. Simple as that.

Thank you all for your replies. We actually got my wife the Kelty Redwing women's backpack. It's not really a travel pack, but it is carry-on sized, has a beefier suspension system than just the two backpack straps like the RS bag, and when packed with 20 pounds of weight, fit on my wife's back and was comfortable for her to carry, which is most important. And she liked the style of the bag which she was very particular about.