I have an Osprey Exos 58 that is a bit too big, and I'm barely able to pack my current gear in it for a short multiday trip (much less a thru hike). A large reason for this is my tent and poles (a 2-man setup currently), and I have a solution for this issue that will reduce size/weight requirements.
The Exos leaves the top of my bum sore because I am quite thin and it slides too low down my waist.
That said, I have an Atmos 65 AG that I love. I can hike in it, fast and far, with no pain carrying the same gear as the Exos. The issue is that the Atmos weighs over 4 pounds. I have heard that packs below 2 pounds are available and perhaps recommended. I am not sure of the real need to cut 2 pounds off my overall weight IF the Atmos fits comfortably and serves my purposes (it does).
I have some extra capacity with the 65 AG (mine is a small, which I think is 62 liters of capacity). My question is if it is OK to carry a pack this size on a thru-hike...and how much weight can I really shave if I buy a pack with similar capacity? Is 62L too big for a thru-hike? (My hunch is NO, I would rather have the capacity if I needed it--i.e., the 100 mile wilderness, than not have it.)
Appreciate folks' thoughts. My current thinking is to use what is comfortable, paid for, and has sufficient space...i.e., stick with my 65 AG. The Exos 58 is going up for sale. :-)
Thanks in advance,
Michael