so what backpack?

[Reflex]

Would love your advice.

Would use for backpacking, weekends, 2 weeks, international. Trying to stay light. Thank you!

[wspscott]

You might want to spend some time reading reviews at sectionhiker.com. Phil reviews a lot of backpacking stuff and I think he is pretty unbiased/truthful in his reviews.

here is something to get you started

http://sectionhiker.com/5-best-ultralight-backpacks-for-long-distance-backpacking/

FWIW, I have an older model Gossamer Gear Mariposa and it is great (reviewed by Phil). I also have a heavier Deuter ACT Light 65+10 but it is more than twice as heavy as the Mariposa and I almost never use it. http://www.rei.com/product/876567/deuter-act-lite-65-10-pack

Edited February 23, 2016 by wspscott
add info

[toejam]

My friend who hiked the PCT in 2014 said there were more ULA Catalyst packs than any other among thru-hikers.

My friend hiking the PCT this year is using a Z-Packs Arc Haul.

I have some friends who used to like the old GG Mariposa, but the new one so much. One dumped his for a ULA Circuit.

There was a new lightweight Osprey pack I tried on in a shop recently that got my attention more than any other Osprey pack. They are wildly popular, like BA tents.

My favorite pack is the ugly yellow REI Flash they made a few years ago. Try a bunch on and see what you like.

[Reflex]

From reading online, these look interesting:

Gossamer Gorilla, Ospray Exos 48

http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Ultralight-Backpack-Reviews/Gossamer-Gear-Gorilla

what would be the benefit of the heavier backpacks?

http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Backpacks-Backpacking-Reviews?n=0&sort_field=#compare

Is there any disadvantage to these ultra light backpacks in general? While Im trying to be light, I aint going nowhere fancy for weeks. But being light is important regardless.

Also, since I dont want to buy 2 backpacks, whats a good all around size in capacity for anything from weekend, 1 week, 2 weeks, thru to international touristic travel?

[toejam]

16 hours ago, Reflex said:

Is there any disadvantage to these ultra light backpacks in general?

They can be really uncomfortable. The GG Gorilla doesn't have a frame/stays - and I wouldn't recommend any pack without a frame. I think I'd rather carry 50# all day in a cushy 7# Gregory pack than an overloaded Gorilla (25-30#) where all the weight is on your shoulders.

And 48L is a small pack. You probably need something in the 60L range if you carry the stuff most people carry.

Edited February 24, 2016 by toejam

[wspscott]

The Gorilla does have a frame, it is simple but it works in the bigger Mariposa so it probably works well in the Gorilla.

I have had 25-30# in the Mariposa and not had any problems. Personally, I would never carry a 7# pack or 50# weight unless I was headed up Everest.

I had ~30# in the Mariposa on a 5 night Smokies trip this past December (hammock, quilts, 10# of food,...) no problems for weight or capacity. If I had a huge 20 degree synthetic bag and large tent I might have had problems, but if I had that much stuff I would still be using my Deuter pack.

[toejam]

2 hours ago, wspscott said:

The Gorilla does have a frame

You are correct. Was thinking of the G4.