Osprey Talon 22

Reviews recommend Osprey backpacks overall for their superb comfort. The torso length is adjustable, the backs are well ventilated and the hip belt is padded. While designed for hiking, the Osprey Talon 22 can double as a school backpack or airplane carry-on, because it features panel loading for easy accessibility. It's light (about 1.5 pounds) but well organized, with pockets on the shoulder straps and hip belt for a cell phone, iPod and other small items. The pack has a slot for a hydration bladder (up to 3 liters) plus loops to hold trekking poles. It's rated for carrying at least 20 pounds, and a blinker patch on the front adds safety for hiking on roads in dim light. For a larger capacity pack suitable for school use and day hikes, reviews recommend The North Face Borealis (*Est. $60).

We found the most detailed review of the Osprey Talon 22 at BackpackGearTest.org, where a reviewer with 30 years of hiking experience provides photos and reports based on seven trips with the pack. A sports rehabilitation specialist recommends the Osprey Talon 22 in the Vegetarian Times, and more than a dozen owners rate and review the pack at REI.com.