Originally Posted by
Bootstrap
I just had an enlightening experience today.
I went to the REI and had them put 15, 20, 30, and 40 pound loads in each of 5 different backpacks, including the one I was returning (they have weighted bean bags to do this with).
For me, the result was surprising. I wound up buying a Ospry Atmos 65. At all weights, it was at least as good as the other best pack. It definitely felt lighter than the Nimbus Meridien for the same weights, and distributed the load better on my back. It also has great pockets for keeping things organized.
My point is less about the pack I chose than the exercise I used. If you can do it, try out a pack at a variety of weights, and try out other packs at the same weights. There's no point to buying a pack that weighs 10 ounces less if it feels heavier when you're carrying a given load.
Jonathan