Kelty Pawnee Backpack - 3300cu in - 2009 BCS

When it comes to packs, fit matters. This pack fit my 19.5" torso perfectly and hugged my body nicely as I climbed over and under blowdowns. The hipbelt beats all others I have tried on my bony hips, and the shoulder straps provided enough cushion against my bony collarbones, a problem with a number of packs I've tried on. Easily carried 30lbs of my gear and my 20* bag. It could easily carry 35-40lbs but if carrying that much weight and gear I'd move up to my multiday pack. Only complaints would be the hydration pocket as mentioned below and the side pockets. The hydration pocket lacks a loop to hang the bladder and isn't deep enough when the sleeping bag is put in. The side pockets can fit a 1L bottle, but only if the pack isn't loaded full. Since I use a bladder that's not big deal. They handle the tent poles and snacks for easy access. Front pocket and lid pocket make personal and other frequent use items easy to get to. I'd add this pack to your pack list when searching for a winter day/summer overnight pack. The budget price is very nice.

Let me start by saying this appears to be a well made pack with plenty of room at a good price. Unfortunately for me, it just didn't quite fit right. In particular, the shoulder straps bothered me and the hip belt kind of got in the way. The other thing that I wasn't crazy about is the location of the hydration pocket. Refilling it with a full pack would be a bit of a hassle. I did like the top loading design with panel access and there seemed to be plenty of pockets and durable materials throughout. The hauling capacity for the price make it worth trying. It might fit you, give it a shot.