Quote:
Also, the VT has almost unusable side pockets.


Perhaps for some but not for me. I keep a 32oz Nalgene or Gatorade bottle in one and my poncho and maps in the other. The bottle can be a bit hard to reach but that's a small price to pay for the exquisite comfort (IMO) and relatively light weight of this pack.

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If you only travel on sunny days you will never reach your destination.*

* May not apply at certain latitudes in Canada and elsewhere.