Backpack Suggestions?

[alligatormtn]

I am thinking about purchasing an Osprey Atmos 50 pack for my 22 day trip through Europe. The dimensions are adjustable considering its a compressed style pack, so that strapping things real tight will make it get significantly smaller.

Is a pack that is 3000cu. inches too big? I'm only carrying clothes, personal items (copies of passport, etc.) a pair of shoes and sandals, and toothbrush etc. No sleeping bag or other 'gear' i'll be staying in hotels and hostels the entire trip.

[Eagle]

alligatormtn, Osprey Packs are very good quality, so that would certainly be one possibility to consider. It's difficult to say whether 3000 cu.in. would be too big or too small? Although you stated that you would only be taking "clothing" (in addition to the other items you mentioned), that covers quite a wide range. Just a few item of clothing or a lot?

A few points for you to consider:

- the Osprey Packs are mostly top-loaders. I tend to prefer a panel-loader, as I find it much easier to access the contents. Also, it's difficult to secure (lock) top-loading Packs as they usually just have a drawstring on the top.

- It doesn't appear that the Pack has either a detachable Daypack (carry on) or a "stowable" harness system. If you do have to check the Pack for air travel, securing the harness is important so the straps don't get damaged by luggage handling equipment. Are either of those features important to you?

- The most important criteria in selecting a Backpack is to ensure that it's properly fitted for your torso length. If possible it's a real good idea to load it up to maximum weight and try it out for an hour or so, to determine if the fit works for you. Most of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. To provide an example, when I was in Europe a few weeks ago, I left my main Pack (40 lbs.+) on while waiting for a train for about one to one and half hours. I hardly noticed the weight at all - it was quite comfortable (it was really just a lot easier to leave it on, rather than leave it sitting on the platform).

Hopefully some of the others will have some comments to add.

Good luck with your pack selection!