Hi,

I'm currently using a Granite Gear Nimbus Latitude panel loading pack which is 3800 cubic inches. It is comfortable but on my last trip to Grand Canyon, starting with nine liters water, I just did not have enough space and reached the limits of carrying comfortably. I want to get a larger volume pack that can carry a heavier water load when needed, but this forces me into getting a heavier pack like the Gregory Baltoro 75 or Osprey Aether 70 or 85. I tried on both of these models at REI and even though they are quite a bit heavier, they really are comfortable with a good fit. Guess I just hate the idea of a heavier pack when I've lighted my shelter, bag and pad to about 3 pounds. What kind of loads do you carry with your Aether and are you completely satisfied?

Cheers,
Tim