Pack reccomendations
 

Hello I plan on backpacking Europe this summer. First time backpacker, but I spent some time in the service so I know what it is like to haul gear.

Generally, I am a big guy (back measured and I can fit bigger medium packs or a smaller large pack). I also tend to pack a lot, so I was thinking of going bigger than 60 liters.

I tried on an Osprey Aether 63 and it was one sweet ruck - the shop also customizes it to your back which is super sweet. Also I am thinking of a MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op) pack.

Basically I am wondering if anyone has experience with the Osprey Aether packs? Or with MEC packs?

I would like to grab the 70L Aether pack, but it runs about $300+ which is fairly steep. Any suggestions?
Thanks

Hey,
I've been backpacking around Europe on and off for the past 18 months and have been using the MEC Walkabout Travel pack and have absolutely loved it. I get tons of comments about how nice a bag it is where ever I go.
I'm a pretty big guy too (6'6") and have the "Long" version of the pack. It has tons of room, but is the perfect size for me. I had a hard time finding a pack that was long enough to fit me, but I can trek around with this pack for ages and it is always comfortable.

All the best in finding a pack that works for you, but I would definitely recommend checking this bag out.

My suggestion would be to find the pack you want and locate a store nearby to try it on and see if it fits you. Some people are not perfect fits for a large or medium like you have stated. In this case you may want to look at pack that allows a good amount of adjustment. With the osprey packs you should be able to switch out the hip belt and shoulder straps if they are too small or too big. Say your pack comes with a large hip pack but is too large, you should be able to replace that belt with a medium belt. My store sells Osprey, they are good packs. The Aether series is a good pack. I do not know much about MEC packs.

yeah, its really all about finding the pack that works best for you. The new Marmot Eiger series packs are pretty bad ass.

:afro: