For all my miles on the AT, PCT, CDT, CT, OHT, etc, etc, I have carried all my gear in an external frame pack that when empty weighs 7 pounds! I really do love the pack, but I use my scooter to get to the trailhead, and the big pack won't fit on the back of the scoot.
I work 2 jobs, so the only way I can do any hiking/backpacking is to leave after my 2nd job on a Friday night and ride to the trail. On some nights that are warm or have a full moon, I'd like to start hiking when I get to the trail head. But since the external is too large to fit on the scoot, I have to wait tiol morning to hike.
So here is my question: Does anyone have any recommendations on a mid-size pack(2-4 days) that would work for me? I prefer a pack with at least a few external pockets, it can be an external or internal frame and empty weighs only 4-5 pounds, but has the space for a bag/pad, some food, stove, clothing appropriate for the weather, etc, etc.