My old bag (an old battered Deuter – transalp I think) got nicked so I’m on the look for a new one.

What’s good out there at the moment?

Looking for something around the 25/30L mark, compressible down when I don’t need all the space. Also after something stable/comfortable when fully loaded. Also a hydration pocket would be v. useful!

To be honest the only thing I didn’t like about the old Deuter was that it was a bit heavy. Is there anything else better out there?

might be a bit smaller than you were looking for but the Evoc bags are great

Using a vaude 30+5 and it fits my 15″ laptop/ lunch/ change of clothes + well thought out design for access top and bottom. Perfect for commuting and has compression straps/ zips. Not going to win any awards for style though!

I’ve used Osprey, Deuter, Vaude and Lowe Alpine for commuting/hiking and find the Osprey to be the most comfortable. It’s a case of try them on and see what fits you best though.

I’m using an Osprey Escapist 25 and it’s the most comfortable pack I’ve used. Stays put on the back and the straps are really well designed for comfort and adjustability. Very much recommended!

Osprey Escapist 25 Review

Stock answer from me. Inov8

Just bought an Escapist 25. I have a Talon 11 which is fantastic but the escapist, on first impressions, looks an even better pack and is obviously better sized for your requirements.

Pretty sure The Great Outdoors magazine is giving away a free 25l Vaude backpack to anyone who subscribes at the moment.

I have to say, I really love my Osprey Talon 22. Get’s used more as a commuting pack on the bike, and then as a day sack for walking. Fits, just so well. I had it stuffed with gear for a 10 mile commute on the road bike, and it was great, very stable.

The only downside is, as it’s a lightweight pack, it’s not very sturdily built. I feel one good crash, and it would be ripped to shred. Bit pricey too.

Osprey Talon 22 Pack

I have to say, I really love my Osprey Talon 22. Get’s used more as a commuting pack on the bike, and then as a day sack for walking. Fits, just so well. I had it stuffed with gear for a 10 mile commute on the road bike, and it was great, very stable.

The only downside is, as it’s a lightweight pack, it’s not very sturdily built. I feel one good crash, and it would be ripped to shred. Bit pricey too.

+1. Excellent pack with lots of good features including a huge bladder compartment. Very good compression system which pulls up as well as in. I’ve had plenty of off’s with mine on over the last 3 years and there’s not a mark on it

Thanks for suggestions all – Escapist looks good and I’ll check out the Outdoors subscription!

Camelback Octane 8.

Hmmm – Innov8 stuff looks very good value…might give them a go

OMM lightweight bags last me about 6 or 7 years before the lining starts coming off. They’re pretty good for cycling – in currently using an old Kimm 25 for commuting.