Originally Posted by Shannon

Actually, Justin and I are still more day hikers and overnight campers than backpackers, though I desperately aspire to that. In my case, it's in part a matter of helping along Justin's comfort level (mental as well as physical) to being further removed from so-called civilization. I've always been a bit of a "tom boy" so sleeping in a tent, using a pit toilet, getting a little sore/muddy/wet is no big deal to me. Justin had never really camped (except a couple KOA experiences when he was very young) before we met and married, so it's a process of acclimatization and education. He's done awesome, and I think he's ready for a 3 or more mile hike-in campsite for one or two nights now.

Now, I need to purchase a good backpacking pack. I have an LLBean rucksack but that's not what I need anymore. Campcookie, what's the model name/number of your Jansport pack? I don't want to sink needless $$ into a high end pack (I've been looking into the Kelty's Women's Pack) if a Jansport will do. I've got a little more height and weight than you (5'5", 140lbs), but still want something that fits a women's build better than the average pack.