Well, since its a fishing and gold panning trip, and with what we have to deal with based on our location, it has to be big, I've simply found no ways to lighten it. Where the pack I rented, (outer frame pack) I asked for some advice and I had it as light as I could. Which is 45-70lbs.

Now, it has one other requirement, that's book carrier. For school, now there are two other students who have packs, and it isn't an uncommon sight to see one. And when there's on +-850 students, nobody cares. And during school, 5 books, 10x10x2" or so. And 3 binders. Typically lunch placement divides that up. So...

My other question is how can I make my pack water proof or is there a cover for it? None say if they are...