Just what I needed

By Quent Ranked #3287 - Backpacks September 16, 2008

This is my first Osprey pack. I bought the Xenon to replace a 2006 version of the REI Mars pack because it was large enough but not technical enough. The Xenon has everything I need, straps to attach my sleeping pad snug on the bottom and holding points to strap my tent (w/o the poles) on the top, and I love the outside stretch pocket for when I need to take an additional day pack. Because everything can't always fit inside the bag. I am also a big fan of having side access and this one is capable of top, side and bottom access.

I haven't put it to use yet but because I just took my Mars pack out for the first time to Thailand for 3 weeks and found it to be lacking in features, as soon as I returned home I began the search for a replacement and went for the Xenon. Upon receipt I immediately loaded it up with about 40 lbs of gear including strapping on the tent, extra day pack, and sleeping pad, with the sleeping bag in it's pocket and wore it around the house for about a half hour or more and it was very comfortable. I will however, have to get use to the arching back as I normally prefer that my packs be against my back. This feels more secure to me. Other than that I am confident that this pack will be perfect for my next trip to China (or elsewhere if I change my mind). I have not decided on whether or not to do the molding of the Hip belt, I prefer to let the belt naturally mold with use.

View Details: Osprey Packs Xenon 85 Backpack - Women's - 4700-5100cu in

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