Solid, reliable backpack - Kelty Trekker 65 Backpack

I bought this because my original Trekker ST, purchased in 2011, is so wonderful! I've noticed that Kelty is making fewer and fewer external frame packs; in fact the Trekker is the only full size backpack they are still selling. And they have all three of the external frame packs they are currently making significantly discounted at this time. I'm worried that in future years, it may be impossible to buy one. The old one has stood up so well to many years of hard use that I imagine this new one will see me through the rest of my backpacking days.

I carry an external frame pack because I have two spine issues - spondylosis in my cervical spine, and a possible finicky disc in my lower lumbar spine. I cannot carry internal frame packs, because the bottom of these packs sits and puts pressure on the lowest part of my spine, below where the spine fuses with the pelvis, which gives me a very sore lower back. No matter how light my pack is, if it puts weight down here, I can't carry it. Internal frame packs also tend to pull backwards and downwards on the shoulders, putting weight on top of the trapezius muscles which causes pain in my dodgy neck. The External frame puts the weight high and transfers the load to my pelvis and legs without irritating these two problem areas. I can adjust it so that there is zero weight on my shoulders, if I want to. I'm a Grade 1 trail walker, so instability while scrambling is not a problem for me. It's a bit hard to find raincovers for these packs; ULA makes an external frame pack cover that is ultralight and does well, although not as durable as the pack itself!

The pack weighs 2.4 kg, so it's comparable with similarly sturdy packs designed to carry loads of 35lb+. I can carry up to 40lbs in my pack without much enjoyment, but without pain. The straps and hip belt are strong and well padded. The only thing showing wear on my old pack is the mesh back panel - which I've replaced via Kelty - and one spot where the adjustment webbing straps for the hipbelt rub against the actual hip belt and have worn small holes which are not a problem at this stage. Everything else has been bombproof. My pack has flown overseas about a dozen times, and the frame is undamaged by the experience.

The new pack is a deep cherry colour - richer and darker than how it appears on my computer screen and I am very pleased with it. It arrived very quickly from Campsaver (I'm in Australia) and I can't wait to get it out on the trails.