Sorry to beat this topic to death, but I have a slightly different twist on my request.
I need recommendations for a backpack as large as my 1992 Terraplane (about 6000 ci), but weighs as little as possible.
I want to make a backpack/sled combo similar to some of the photos already posted on Summit Post. Except for using the Crazy Carpet sled, I will use a real sled.
I want to do a 3 day-135 mile unsupported cross country ski trek under very cold conditions (20F to -35F) across Northern Minnesota in early February.
So I plan on using a backpack and attaching a sled to the outside of it. When on flat terrian, I will ski dragging the backpack/sled combo. When on steep hilly terrain, I will ski wearing the backpack/sled combo. When it is too cold to ski because of lack of glide (e.g., below -20F), I will hike while dragging the backpack/sled combo.
My current set up of Terraplane/48" plastic sled weighs on my scale:
Terraplane (XL) 8.5 lbs
Sled 3.5 lbs
Since the Terraplane is most of the weight, that is where my focus is. I expect to be in sled mode 2/3 of the time and in backpack mode 1/3 of the time.
I will not be carrying a monster load, but probably 25-30 pounds. But, I need a large capacity pack to contain all of my bulky stuff: sleeping bag, mountaineering parka, insulated jacket and pants, Expedition Mitts, etc.
The Go Lite Odyssey is a candidate, but runs a little small at 5500 ci. All suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.