What do you think of the back ventilation, esp. for hot, humid weather?

Best,

Pat

Nice! Yeah, I think that’s a good plan.

My general recommendation on HMG packs, and lightweight packs in general, is if you can keep your total weight to 25 lbs or less, you’re golden. 30 lbs and you’re still good, though maybe slightly less comfortable. 35 lbs and you’re right on the comfort limit – doable but not as nice. 40 lbs or more and you’re out of the comfort zone. The HMG pack will hold up surprisingly well under that type of weight, but it won’t be comfortable. If you’re regularly carrying 40+ total pounds, I’d recommend bumping out of the lightweight backpack category and into something with a bit of a sturdier frame, more padding, and added comfort, though your pack will obviously be heavier too.

Hope that helps!

Thanks Dave! Appreciate the insight. I guess the bottom line is it depends on how much load there is to lift! I’m a photographer so while I can keep my general base weight relatively manageable, I can end up with an additional 10+ pounds or more of camera gear. I typically carry the gear at the top of the pack for quick access, which makes me wonder if I’d miss the lifters if I’m unable to snug up the top. Looks like REI is about to start carrying HMG so maybe I can go in and try it first.

Thanks Greg!

Honestly, with lightweight packs, I almost always think load lifters are kinda unnecessary. I know some people feel very strongly about having them, but in my experience, they’re not really necessary on a lightweight pack. Now, load up a traditional backpack with 50+ pounds and you’ll probably want some load lifters. And I won’t complain when lightweight packs do have them. I just rarely think they’re necessary or provide much benefit at all. So hopefully that helps. Thanks!

Thanks,

greg