I currently have a MEC Brio 62L pack. I want to upgrade to a lighter one, as this one is rated at 2.8kg ~ 6 lbs.

I am looking for a pack that is:

1)approx 3 lbs
2)50 - 65L
3)comfortable
4)would remain comfortable in wet conditions ***
5)the only feature I am interested in is to have 2 access points (top and bottom, or like the Brio, a zipper across the whole height of the pack...anyways a method that would allow me to reach the bottom of the pack.

***I was looking at Golite Pinnacle reviews, several people said that the frame-less backing got ruined after a downpour. While this pack is bigger than I'd like, I was wondering if this may be true for other brands.

For example I really like Granite Gear - Escape and Latitude Vapor. Another one was Osprey-Exos

My price limit is $230-ish.

Any suggestions from other brands? I looked at major websites, and these where my top choices.

PS I'd like to take this pack for my honeymoon this august/septmeber on the Napali coast

Thanks in advance

Not sure about those reviews-- I own a Golite Jam, Pinnacle, Peak and an Ion and have not experienced anything unusual about any of these packs in rain, snow, wind or hail.

Anyway, back to your question. If you are looking for a sub 3lb pack then I would stay away from "mainstream" brands (Osprey, Deuter, Gregory etc) since not only are many of them very expensive, but they tend to be quite a bit over your 3lb limit (with a few exceptions). However, if you want to go to a store and try on packs then the two most common lightweight packs are: Granite Gear's Vapor Trail and Golite's Jam or Pinnacle.

Note: Both the Jam and Pinnacle are currently on sale at Golite.com for 40% off using their code "DSW10"-- also wait until Monday since their clearance page becomes live and you may find those packs discounted even more.

Other brands:
-Gossamer Gear
-Mountain Laurel Designs
-ULA-Equipment

All of these have packs that weigh less than 3lbs, have the required capacity and are in your budget. Also, if you look across the boards you can find quality used packs for great prices.

Chris is spot on. I can only add the Six Moon Designs Traveller which is panel loading.

http://sixmoondesigns.com/packs.html?pag...;category_id=11

Thanks for the quick replies!

I'm glad to hear that the Jam/Pinnacle can handle wet weather.
Also, thanks for the suggestions of the other brands that I probably would never find on my own.

And I'll keep an eye out on here for the classifieds.

You might consider getting a pack cover-I used one down in NZ where it rains regularly. Kauai in August/September will be hot, so keep that in mind as well-Get something that has a breatheable panel against your back, if possible.

I worked on Kauai for a couple of months many years ago-up in the rain forest somewhere and don't remember getting rained on that much, but against the mountains on the Napili side, that is a distinct possibility.

Congrats... I hope you have a joyful marriage. Hawaii is a great place for a honeymoon.

Two access points or a panel loader will severally limit your choices. You might what to rethink this as an requirement. As others have suggested, you could also check out the panel loading packs from Six Moon Designs. You could also keep an eye out for a used Mountainsmith Ghost.

I don't know that any pack is "comfortable" when wet, though packs with a well ventilated back like the Osprey Exos might will be better than the classic frameless pack. There are a bunch of people who really like this pack. I don't use it because the hip belt wasn't right for me.

I have a list of some other light weight backpacks, ignoring your panel / two opening requirement.

--Mark

Offtopic, but I hope you find useful

August/September you should still be in the dry season (changes in the fall), but the Napoli coast on Kauai is on the windward (wet) side of the island; trade winds will dump moisture there when the wet air rises to go over the mountains.

Bring bug repellant!! I haven't done the Napoli coast, but wet areas in HI are loaded with mosquitos.

Bed and breakfasts were a good deal on Kauai; if the surf is the color of chocolate milk, don't go swimming!!

How about this list of light weight back packs:

http://www.friliv.dk/rygsaekke/dagtursrygsaekke/rygsaekke-under-30-liter.aspx

I have a panel loading Mountainsmith Cross country. I used it last year. This pack has all sorts of neat pockets etc. 5 pounds though! Tough as nails. With all that organization I feel it is no better than the g4 top loader at a pound. I still couldnt find anything unless I cleaned it out. If you dig bag out of bottom guess what all your other stuff goes there when it is removed! I am organizing more this year with silnylon stuff sacks, and a four pnd lighter pack! Just my particular situation doesnt warrent a panel loader. Food for thought?

I have been using the golite pinnacle since 2007 and never had any problems including the one you decribed. Generally I backpack in the adirondaks, white mountains and vermont three times a year. It even has enough volume for winter trips of 4-5 days. In spring and fall I bring along a sil-nylon cover from equinox.

One nice feature I really like is its ability to collapse down to a smaller volume for day trips from camp. Anyway I highly recommend it and it is my goto pack all year long. I'm still looking for a extra large expedition pack but I never found a reason to actually buy it.

Mike B