Thanks Glen, I am aware of that. I have North Face and Camelbak "hydration" packs which have their own compartment and then the 18 and 30 Flash packs by REI, which have the "sleeve" for the bladder; the Aether is similar too.

The problem I foresee with it, is this means the bladder practically needs to be packed first and becomes somewhat inaccessible. I don't view this as a bad design or anything, just a reality of the situation.

I had heard in my research of buying the pack, that people just keep the hydration pack between the main compartment and top lid. Some were saying this even allows for easier water flow. As eluded to, I'll probably try both ways and see what I like best, just curious if others hand opinions here...

Thanks!
~grc