What a beautiful picture for today's pubski! Finally finished unpacking! A simple 2.5 months after moving in... But ya know better late than never. It feels much bigger now it's a little crazy. The boxes really take up space. Job is hectic right now with APEC so close but it's really interesting getting the inside scoop and seeing the behind the scenes stuff. I'll also be getting more responsibility in a few weeks, going to take over as project lead on one of our really large ongoing projects so that's pretty great. Looking at getting a backpacking backpack. Current is like 60 or 65 L and it's just way too big for a weekend. Thinking 40-45. Been looking at Osprey and Gregory. Osprey has that sweet warranty but the Gregory I looked at was softer, but also how long with that softness last? Also remember to wear your damn masks all of my immediate family has got Covid within the past 6 weeks or so.
gregory also has a lifetime warranty. i've lived a cumulative few weeks out of their Border 30 and Border 18 bags, with no complaints (ok onetime i got caught in a massive downpour and umbrella priorities went to a girl i was with and not my bag and my computer took one for the team, but that's on me) never had a backpacking bag from them though. i have a rei trail 40 and it's fine but i'm a pretty casual backpacker. last trip was a 1 nighter in Point Reyes and it was great. also only worth it if you find it on sale. the older version was better and i regret returning it.
I think you’re making the right choice by going with 40-45L for week ending! Osprey and Gregory make great packs. Don’t know if you’re in a place where you can try them on - would go with whatever fits best, and those companies do make different fitting packs compared to each other.
Plenty of REIs around to try on a variety of both which is great! Though not sure I'll buy there now...
A line producer on the awful show had an insight: you can always buy cheaper than REI, but anything you buy there will never let you down. I do have a pair of boots there that gave me scars on my calves... but they were hella waterproof. And my bike lift from there sucks but ALL bike lifts suck. Pretty sure they have both brands.