Backpack Conundrums

[wayno]

find a mail forwarding company in the states that will give you a US address that can be delivered to. and they will forward the package to you

[Gusto]

The lack of bottle holders is easily fixed by just attaching some. I use a bottle holder made by seat to summit. I attach it to my lowest compression strap.

As for the idea of a Golite pack. That simply will not last anywhere near as long as the other packs mentioned. It's not worth considering if you are choosing between the others.

The WE Mountain Expedition is a good pack too. It's very similar to the lost world in design. It's main differences is that it uses a lighter wight nylon and has a side zipper. It also happens to be much cheaper in cost (I think it's about $200 cheaper.) The harness is almost the same. I believe the face fabric is a mesh instead of canvas. It is intentionally designed for alpine usage so it's lifespan is probably shorter than that of the Lost World if you are using it in the bush more.

[bushwalker zane]

As for the idea of a Golite pack. That simply will not last anywhere near as long as the other packs mentioned. It's not worth considering if you are choosing between the others.

Yeah, after reading into it a lot more I quickly discovered that light weight doesn't equal long lasting. Weight for me isn't really a problem as I don't mind carrying a bit more.

The WE Mountain Expedition is a good pack too. It's very similar to the lost world in design. It's main differences is that it uses a lighter wight nylon and has a side zipper. It also happens to be much cheaper in cost (I think it's about $200 cheaper.) The harness is almost the same. I believe the face fabric is a mesh instead of canvas. It is intentionally designed for alpine usage so it's lifespan is probably shorter than that of the Lost World if you are using it in the bush more.

This was the same answer I got from WE. As well as a bit of logical thinking. I do in fact do a lot of bush-bashing. So a sturdy pack is indeed in need. I'm pretty much sold on the Lost World. I've sourced them at $480ish from hiking.com.au, so that looks like a go! I'll no doubt let you all know with the decision I make on this subject.

[dannnnn]

i have an old WE travel pack that my old man gave me many many years ago... and it is impossible to damage but really comfy to wear. i wish i could get a similar aussie-made WE hiking pack. so much love for their gear. oh well.

[icemancometh]

go the WE

you know it fits well and does the job
and they are the two most critical features when it comes to pack

they seem to be more reliable to me too, though I've never owned a One Planet...just never been tempted

[Mutley]

I have owned a Macmillan for a few years. [...] The bottom pack access is good in theory but I have not really used it.

Sounds like you own a Strezlecki, as the McMillan does not have a bottom opening.

The McMilan is also slightly larger (+5L), has crampon attachments and a useful bungee system on the front. In my eyes the McMilan is the better pack of the two.

Er yes. A bit embarrassing. They look so similar,but it is a strez. The bungee system on the front would be very handy. I've been thinking of stitching on some loops and Velcro on the front straps for a gps, camera, compass etc.