http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detai...D=1208989616691

This is MEC Brio... a great pack for $89 Canadian... almost as good as the stuff available for 2x price or more.

It comes in three toros sizes, which is critical for many people.

If we're talking lite gear, then a 40+ pack is very appropriate. They make a similar pack at 50+ liters for slightly more money. I find the design is slightly too narrow for the volume. It is remarkably narrow, relative to other packs on the market. This could be good for skiing and climbing.

I think 50 liters is same as 3000 cubic inches.

I've got the MEC Brio 50 L + sack. It's good size for several days or more in summer. Overnights in winter is okay too. If you like to bring lots of stuff, or don't want to be attentive to packing then it's too small.

I think the 40L is a more optimal size for summer backpacking of up to a few days if you are being thoughtful.

If I'm throwing stuff quickly together for me, my girlfriend and her two dogs....and bringing stuff I don't necessarily need or even want....... then I use a 7000 cubic inch pack even for overnights.