New packpack ideas

[Blammo]

My son and I are going on a weeklong boyscout backpacking trip.  I only have bike bags and hydration packs so I'm taking the opportunity to expand my options.  I've got our gear down pretty light so I'm looking at one new larger hydration pack to replace my CB Mule and a less expensive but bigger frameless backpack.  The backpack is easy because I'm not to fussy and they aren't too terrible expensive anyway.  I'm most interested in optimizing the hydration pack for bikepacking.

Two issues:  I ride in the desert southwest and need to be able to haul a decent amour of water in the pack because my setup does not allow me to carry much on the frame of the bike.  Also, I'm somewhat of a Sherpa for the velocity-challenged.

What is the ultimate bikepacking hydration pack with about a 30L capacity and, of course, light weight ...in you opinion?

[ImAFred]

I just purchased the famed "osprey talon 22" and have to admit it is a very nice pack and carries loads well, it has my

[adelorenzo]

I use EVOC packs. The 30L Freeride Tour (and the 20L Freeride Trail, I use both) are the most comfortable packs I've ever used. I carry a ton of weight when guiding and it is comfortable and, most important for me, it stays secure in the most technical riding. I've never used another pack that doesn't swing around on me in corners or ride up my back on steeps. The only possible downside is that it fits snug and has a spine protector so your back is not ventilated.

We actually have a well-known pack sponsor but I spend my own $$$ on these packs. 

I don't drink out of hoses and it doesn't come with a bladder so can't comment on that function, although it does have space for one. You'd have to add your own.

[Done]

I'm really happy with my Wingnut pack. http://www.wingnutgear.com/product_details.cfm?product_id=112

[Area54]

I reckon the best bladders are the Osprey ones, very easy to handle, fill and store. For more than 3L water storage,  an MSR Dromedary bag, with the optional hydration kit and a CB mouthpiece.

[Blammo]

I wound up getting two Gossamer Gear G4s.  Not the most attractive pack out there but they are light and cheap.  I have them in my possession already but have not taken them out yet.  I think they will work great in the desert southwest where I spend most of my time.  The abundant external mesh pockets would not be good for narrow trails or bushwacking.

I'm still looking for the ultimate bikepacking pack, but it's going to have to be put off for a while.

[Yogi the Barry]

I have the Osprey Manta 20 and just got the Manta 30. After receiving the 30, I'm selling my 20. IMHO, 20 and 25 are almost identical, with the only real difference being the stretch side pockets on the 25. Reason I got the 30 was to carry more gear than the 20. The best feature of the Manta 30 over most packs is the adjustable "shove-it" pocket [accessible without having to manipulate any zippers] - which can grow large enough to carry a helmet [or more] or snugged down small enough to mimic the 20 in size. Their web site [below] doesn't do justice to how adjustable the "shove-it" pocket really is. The open mesh trampoline frame of the Manta series also means your back will stay drier compared to most other packs. The Manta packs also have a built-in rain cover. Living in the Southwest, I have a soft spot in my heart for Osprey, since they are based out of Salida, CO, not too far from where I live...
http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/product/hydration_packs__osprey_hydraulics_1/manta_30

[mtndragon]

I use a Manta 25.  I like it, get's the job done.