The 4400 is "the only way to travel" - Hyperlite Mountain Gear 4400 Southwest Black Pack - Large

So, if you're considering the 4400 SW, then you've probably read all or most of the reviews on the internet about the Hyperlite packs, the 2400, the 3400, the Southwest and Windrider and Porter, and you're here at the 4400 page, thinking "I'm sold on the HMG packs, but do I want to go with HMG's larger (largest) capacity pack, knowing I'd be carrying extra weight by doing so?" The answer is: YES! Get it! The difference in weight between the 2400 and 4400 (Southwest) is a measly 7 ounces. And the amount of added volume available is substantial. Yes, the 4400 is a little wider than both the 2400 and 3400, and, of course the 4400 is taller, but with the option, of adding more volume using ultra light gear, at ones disposal, then the 4400 gives one the opportunity to do more with the pack, whether that might be carrying gear for others or carrying more winter gear for oneself.

IMHO, the potential for increasing the carrying capacity versus the small added weight of the pack, is a no-brainer. Not to mention, when carrying less than 20 lbs, the packs top can be rolled down almost as low as the two smaller packs, so it's the best of all worlds.

Well, there is the added cost, but what's a few bucks when it comes to increasing one's options, while still carrying a pack that's next to nothing in weight? (Note: I've been out of the backpacking loop for 15 years. My last pack was a Osprey Aether that weighed twice as much. This pack is half the weight and is more comfortable. Of course, it has a weight limit so I wouldn't want to fill it with 50 pounds. But in this day and age, everything is light, so 30 pounds is on the heavier side, but still feels great with this pack!)

I'm 6 feet, 165 lbs, and my measured torso size is 20 1/2inches so I went with the "large" model, and it fit's perfectly.

Oh, and by the way, if you leave your iphone 6/7 (larger of the iphones) at home, then the hip belt pockets work wonderfully perfect for bars and small gadgets, with easy access. Those of you who gnash your teeth at the thought of leaving your precious phones at home can always throw them in the "back" of the pack, in those luxurious side and rear pockets. You might get the shakes knowing you can't access them as quickly, but hey, isn't that what back packing is ultimately all about, getting away from all the audio and visual 'noise" and calming the Mind?