Gregory Baltoro 70

Backpacker magazine names the Gregory Baltoro 70 as a 2008 Editor's Choice. In addition, the magazine's 2008 gear guide recommends this backpack not only as the best pack for extended trips, but also as the best backpack overall. Detailed and useful owner-written reviews of the Gregory Baltoro 70 are available at REI.com (a retailer site) and at Trailspace.com (a hiking gear review site). An earlier book reporting on a survey of Appalachian Trail hikers concludes that Gregory backpacks have the lowest repair rate among major brands.

Field testers and owners indicate that the Gregory Baltoro 70 hiking backpack is a good choice for extended backpacking trips. Reviews praise its fit, comfort and convenience despite its large, 4,300-cubic-inch capacity. An overwhelming majority of reviews commend the Gregory Baltoro 70, which carries a lifetime guarantee, for its fine construction and durability. Two owners reviewing it at Trailspace.com, however, report parts breaking. The Gregory Deva (*est. $250) is the women's version, but women also like the Osprey Ariel 65 (*est. $240). Both are sized for long trips. For weekend backpacking, reviews recommend the less expensive Mountainsmith Treklight Eclipse 55 (*est. $200).