I am trying to find a backpack that can be used to backpack 7 to 10 days, i.e., find the number of cubic inches. I backpacked from Front Royal to Thornton's Gap over a 4 day period using a Gregory Palisade (large); it will hold up to 5500 cubic inches - much tooooo heavy! I am 6'4" tall and I weigh appoximately 195 lbs and I've been told not to carry over 1/3 of your body weight. 1/3 of my body weight is approximately 65 lbs and that is way toooo heavy - in my opinion. I was thinking of a backpack that would hold say no more than 30 - 40 lbs of gear. Any suggestions. Thanks!

I suggest you look at the Osprey Aether 60; also the Granite Gear Ozone or Vapor Trail. Also check out the Mountainsmith Auspex and the ULA P-2; all of these are smaller and lighter than your Palisade, and are designed to carry loads in the range you're looking at.

OK, so a 5500 CI backpack is too large and heavy. So, look for a backpack in the 4500 to 5000 CI range. Jack offered several good suggestions. You have been using a Gregory pack. Currently REI has the Gregory Forestor on sale. So, take all your gear, food, fuel, and water to your local outfitter and find out exactly just how large a pack you need.

The Forrester peaks at 40 lbs.
Carries well but is not the lightest article out there.
I like mine.
pete

i carry an equinox katahdin 3400 ci.1lb 10 oz paid 80.00 bucks,carries 30 lbs
i love it:cool: neo

I'd recommend that you take a look at the ULA P-2.

See http://www.ula-equipment.com

Without spending a lot of cash, you can get your packweight, minus food, water, and fuel (the baseweight) down to 20 lbs. Your body type will be of great advantage for backpacking. The P2 will be perfect for loads of 30 lbs or so. If you can drop down to the 15-20 range, the P1 could be just right.

You might also look at Six Moon Design's new pack, the Comet. I've gave it a hard look at ADZPCTKOP a couple weekends ago and it looks really promising. With twin stays on it, it should be able to haul a fair amount, although the limited volume forces a lighter load on it than it can handle.

See

http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/

Thanks for your suggestions!