1

Or perhaps a MacPac:

http://www.macpac.com.au/packs/clearance/genesis-70.html

I should also say that we plan to spend about a month in Brazil, then head over to Peru and hike around, making our way down to Argentina through Bolivia and Chile. I expect that our longest hikes will be 4 or 5 days, so the pack will mainly be used for travelling, rather than hiking.

2

Hey man, just saw this and thought i would drop a late response. I have recently purchased an interloper so cant speak from experience....but my girlfriend has had hers for about 6 years I think and it is still going strong. Its a pretty big pack, but is perfect for longer trips, especially if you want to pick up some souvenirs!

I did a lot of research before buying mine and decided it was the best option for my needs (looking at a year trip into SA myself in the near future).

Cheers

3

Hi Shnozzle - sorry have not tried the Kathmandu pack, and I realise that you are trying to save a few dollars by buying during the sales. But Kathmandu is not always the best option - even if they are the lowest priced. If you are in Sydney - go to Kent St in the city (the block behind the Town Hall) - you will find a full range of shops to discuss your problem with. The good ones (Paddy Pallin or Trek & Travel) will offer good advice (on sizes, bag types etc) and will still be smiling if you leave without buying. (They are professionals who do a look of backpacking). If you are in Melbourne - or near it - then the city area you need is Bourke Street near Elizabeth street. Again the full range of providers and the same good advice. There is a similar area in Canberra - civic - one street east of Northborne Ave - a block north of the Canberra Centre. Brisbane and Adelaide are likely to have similar areas. Good luck.

4

Thank you both for your excellent advice. After much deliberation, I decided to go for the Osprey Waypoint 70+15L. I know it's big, but I'm a tall guy, so hopefully will be able to handle it. I bought it from Bivouac, a very good price at AU$180 with free delivery to Australia. They had great customer service too.

http://www.bivouac.co.nz/gear/travel-and-urban/travel-packs/osprey-waypoint-85-travel-pack.html

I'm taking a risk buying online, but I couldn't go past it for the price. However, I think your advice Mike on shopping in store is invaluable, and I would have done the same if I didn't find the Osprey.

Thanks again to both of you.