What is your favorite pack size for a 3-5 day alpine rock climbing trip? I'm trying to hit the sweet spot as far as weight/space etc. What is your favorite brand/model as well?

40 -45 liters seems to be the about the right size for a multiday alpine trip. I have a Montbell Balance Light that I like quite a lot. I'm wearing it in my profile photo, kitted out for a two climb of the NW Face of Forbidden Peak.

ExcitableBoy wrote:40 -45 liters seems to be the about the right size for a multiday alpine trip. I have a Montbell Balance Light that I like quite a lot. I'm wearing it in my profile photo, kitted out for a two climb of the NW Face of Forbidden Peak.

second that!

Balance Light 40, on sale now $76.00. You will not find a better pack at that price: http://www.montbell.us/products/disp.php?p_id=1223309

FWIW, I find the Balance Light to be about the same volume as my BD Shadow 45L, although the BD has a better suspension for heavier loads. 35lbs would about the maximum comfortable load for the Montbell, but for 3 season alpine rock you shouldn't have carry more than that.

ExcitableBoy wrote:Balance Light 40, on sale now $76.00. You will not find a better pack at that price: http://www.montbell.us/products/disp.php?p_id=1223309

FWIW, I find the Balance Light to be about the same volume as my BD Shadow 45L, although the BD has a better suspension for heavier loads. 35lbs would about the maximum comfortable load for the Montbell, but for 3 season alpine rock you shouldn't have carry more than that.

Thanks. I'll def look into it. I had been checking out the Osprey Talon 42 as well as the BD Speed. I like Montbell products but I tend to be a little rough on things.

Montbell Balance Light 40 just came. Holy smokes....the thing has to be bigger than 40l......which I'm not complaining. Shoulder padding is generous which makes up for no hip padding. It's nice and light and the material is burlier than I expected for a 2lb pack. Love the extension for the pack lid to cover the overflow. For $76.....it's a ridiculous steal. Thanks EB.

I'm pleased you like the pack.