Daypack Recommendations

[photogpat]

Alright - so my 20 year old EMS backpack from college is finally giving up the ghost (inner liner delaminating, straps frayed, etc...).

I need a few daypack recommendations. I'm a tall skinny dude, and I frequently do day hikes with my family, the cub/boy scouts, and by myself; it would also be accompanying me hunting - so it'd need to be large enough to fit my back/torso, hold lunch, some clothing, a few odds and ends, and a small camera...but not haul around the entire workshop. I'd prefer to avoid the overly tactical tommy look if I can - and I want something with a Camelback or similar water reservoir integrated into it. I need some real life experience on the hydration reservoirs too (ie. cleaning, use, etc). Not to be overly gross, but I also sweat a ton - its relevant since I've soaked through non-waterproof packs - so something waterproof and/or with a breathable back pad is key too.

I'd rather spend a little more and get one that'll last me another 10-15 years, than spend $25 and get a cheapo.

Here are a few I'm looking at so far:

http://www.blackhawk.com/product/STRIKE-Predator-Hydration-Pack,894,60.htm (this one in Tan is about the limit of my "tactical" tolerance)
http://www.rockymountaintrail.com/detail.aspx?pid=100761&&ocid=659142&coid=437953&utm_medium=DataFeed&utm_source=amazon&utm_content=CamelBakM.U.L.E_100ozBamboo
http://www.rockymountaintrail.com/JanSport/Catalyst_(8000_M)/TXQ3/detail

Any advice from the field?

[bstrawse]

I have the camelback mule - it works great. I have an older version that I use for 50+ mile cycling rides - it holds up really well. I've had mine for 7-8 years at this point.
b

[goalie]

I have the camelback mule - it works great. I have an older version that I use for 50+ mile cycling rides - it holds up really well. I've had mine for 7-8 years at this point.
b

I use the Mule mountain biking. I don't think it carries enough to meet the OP's requirements. Maybe a larger version of the Camelbak would though.

[photogpat]

I have the camelback mule - it works great. I have an older version that I use for 50+ mile cycling rides - it holds up really well. I've had mine for 7-8 years at this point.
b

I use the Mule mountain biking. I don't think it carries enough to meet the OP's requirements. Maybe a larger version of the Camelbak would though.

Looks like the MULE has a capacity of 763 cu/in, the Blackhawk version is smaller at 750. My previous EMS pack was 1000 and I found it to be just right (although sometimes I brought too much stuff just because I had the room) -- Hmmmmm...

[goalie]

If it's the right size, go for it. I am 6-1, 185 pound guy, and it fits me great for biking. It also expands a little, as the webbing pocket has tension pulls.

[gman1868]

Once you get a pack you can put a ballistic insert in it...

http://ravelingroup.com/images/Ravelin_Group_SDCatalog_2013.pdf

[Hammer99...]

I have two of these in larger versions. If you are looking for an internal frame. These are very good.

http://www.rei.com/product/796730/osprey-stratos-24-pack


I also have a mule for mountain biking. Again, a very good pack. I think the MULE II has more capacity.


Head to REI they will fit you to a pack. They also offer a no questions asked return policy (might need to be a member). Try it out for a few months. Don't like it. Bring it back.

[photogpat]

I have two of these in larger versions. If you are looking for an internal frame. These are very good.

http://www.rei.com/product/796730/osprey-stratos-24-pack


I also have a mule for mountain biking. Again, a very good pack. I think the MULE II has more capacity.


Head to REI they will fit you to a pack. They also offer a no questions asked return policy (might need to be a member). Try it out for a few months. Don't like it. Bring it back.

I dropped my membership a few years ago...still, always forget their return policy is solid gold.

[NMRMN]

heh: The Hive Satchel is $195 over at Blue Force Gear.

[photogpat]

No

[Doc Harvey]

http://www.bing.com/shopping/spec-ops-b ... &FORM=HURE

What I carried in OIF back in 2004. Still use it on a routine basis. Hasn't worn out or frayed anywhere. Has a bright yellow interior which really does help in low-light situations. Lots of MOLLE webbing all around. Can't say enough about this pack!

[photogpat]

So, I ended up grabbing an REI brand "Traverse 30" pack today. I musta loaded up and tried on about a dozen different ones, and this one was the best fit, combination of features, and least "technical" looking. Plus, I had money left over for a new Camelbak!

[Hammer99...]

Looks like a good choice. It even has a whistle in case you are attacked in the woods.