Osprey Hornet 46

The Osprey Hornet is a quality built, rugged little pack with enough space for your 2-3 day excursions. The waist belt is very comfortable and the shoulder strap energy bar holders just make this little package a very nice setup.

I am 5'9" about 180 lbs and have the original medium/large sized pack. It does not adjust so it either fits you or it doesn't. Luckily for me it fits me well. 

The bag is comfortable, not Gregory Palisades comfortable but comfortable. I have actually sold my Palisades and use the Osprey Hornet for everything but winter camping. Hip belt, shoulder straps and sternum straps have the usual adjustments and the pack vents pretty nicely.

It holds about 2760 cu in (46 liters) of gear which should be enough to pull off most 2-3 day excursions. 

It is top loading so organization is key but once you decide what should go where you will have no problem getting to your stuff. That's because it also has two deep side stretch pockets (one each side), one large front pocket and a removable cover which of course also acts as a zippered pocket.

The Hornet is bladder ready and the bladder pocket is on the outside of the pack so it is easier to put in and out when there is gear in the pack. (I didn't say easy, I said easier than if it was inside the pack). 

There are no compression straps but I have not found that to be a problem so far as the pack carries well even with only a small amount of gear in it.

One of the neatest features is that the shoulder straps have built in energy bar holders. I know simple things please me, but this is a cool enough idea that I'm surprised everybody isn't doing it. 

I have used the pack 10-12 weekends over the past couple of years and it has proven to be strong and reliable.  Bottom line, I am very glad that I took a chance on this light weight pack and you will be too.