JanSport Helios

Jansport Helios WEEKEND pack- I have always enjoyed Jansport's reliability in packs and have not been disappointed yet.

* Features Single hollow 6061 aluminum stay • Compression molded back panel and laminated hip belt • Extremely breathable shoulder straps with die cut foam and wicking spacer mesh • Waist belt gear loops • Dual water bottle pockets • 10mm side compression straps • Glove friendly zipper pulls and Alien buckles Fabric: 600D Poly / 420D Dual Ripstop / 840D Junior Ballistic, 210 D VTS Nylon / 70 D VTS Nylon
* Weight: 2.69 lbs / 1.18 kg
* Dimensions: 31.0” x 12” x 9.5”
* Capacity: 2950 cu in / 48.3 L

This was my first "backpacking" pack and have to say that when I arrived at the trailhead that first time with a 35 pound pack, they guys were no longer laughing about my 2950 cu in capacity. They could hold the kitchen sink in their 4000+ cu in, but why would you want to?

The Good:

Comfortable- even going uphill in the rain!

The pack itself is very light and easy to fit. While I have the tall version and it's a little too big, it's still comfortable after 3 days on the trail.

The hip belt is easy to adjust, the shoulder straps are nice and cushy.

I absolutely love the big water bottle holders on the sides.

It weighs less than 3 lbs!

Compression straps on the sides useful for poles, pads, etc.

The Bad:

The detachable top does not have a way to clip itself to a rope for overnight food storage. (use a small carabiner or s-biner attached to the bags clips)
No way to access the bag from the side or bottom to access sleeping gear.

NOT WATERPROOF- Found that while it is water resistant, it is advisable to use a pack cover or a trash bag inside the pack.

No hydration sleeve- I have adapted the inside pocket to hold a small 70 oz bladder. It almost appears as if it is supposed to hold one as there is a padded hole on the top right near the plastic form. You have to take everything out to access the compartment properly.

Overall I believe this is a decent lightweight pack, if you get a good price and are not looking for a lot of bells and whistles. Until I go from 3 nights to 5 or 6, I see no reason to buy anything else.