Day hike backpack recommendations

[John S]

Hi,

I'm looking for a good day hiking backpack that'll carry a change of clothes, laptop, and water bottles.  Willing to pay up to $200 for the right pack.  Plan on day hikes of 15 plus miles on weekends and walking 12 plus back and forth to work on weekdays.

Thanks!

[Aaron Zagrodnick]

I tend to like the Flash Series from REI - the REI Flash 22 which is about perfect as a daypack for me...except it only comes in one size that is on the short side for my torso. As a result I've been using the ULA Photon. Our review:

https://www.trailgroove.com/blogs/entry/112-ula-equipment-photon-backpack-review/

The Photon has more capacity (a little on the large side for some dayhikes), but I do like the fact that it comes in a range of torso sizes for a good fit.