Highlander Outdoor Discovery 45-Liter Rucksack, Blue

Edit: I reached out to Highlander on Twitter and discovered that the reason this pack was such a snug fit is that it's mostly used by kids who are getting into backpacking...makes more sense. I'm returning mine not because of quality but the fit just didn't work! I have the 65L and will be keeping that though, as it can house my coleman 0 degree bag plus many extras.---I wanted to be blown away by this pack because of it's value/performance ratio and after loading it up and wearing it around my yard for a bit, I like it but I'm not stunned. Then again, for a sub-$50 pack, I wasn't expecting to be wowed. I actually don't have any issues with the pack other than it's really quite short for someone with an average stature. FYI, I'm male, 5'10" and broad shouldered. The waist pack rides on the very top of my hips, perhaps even higher. I have to let out the shoulder straps to their max for it to rest on my waist. It JUST fits...barely...it wouldn't work for anyone taller than me. I have about 20 lbs in the pack to get a sense of how it distributes weight and it does well- not too much shifting on the back...just a little due to having to loosen the shoulder straps so it rides on my hips.The GOOD: lightweight, good construction, not so many straps that you get lost, but enough to hold gear outside the pack. The two side zip pockets are nice. There are three internal drawstrings in the main compartment to separate gear and keep moisture/water out. I like the integrated rain cover. The waist strap is substantial enough to bear weight...though it could be a little longer. Main compartment is spacious. The internal frame is one aluminum lumbar support, not much added weight but there's some rigidity there. Good layout and will be a good overnight, 2 day bag, except for that sizing issue.The BAD: zippers aren't particularly thick but that doesn't mean they won't hold up, just something to keep in mind. The SIZE is the biggest issue...I'm big but not huge and I have the straps maxed out on the shoulders and sternum strap. Because of that there's slight bag shift on the back but it's not a deal breaker. The size pockets are a tapered shape...qide at the top and narrow at the bottom, I highly doubt a nalgene would fit vertically. I'll have to try and see if they fit horizontally but if they don't fit...that's a waste of a mesh side pocket.Overall it's a good value pack, not the best but certainly a competitor in the $50 bag range.

I really like this rucksack, you can fit a lot of things inside!

This baby can handle a punch! bought it for my upcoming trip to europe but I decided to test it first. I've got to admit it surpassed my expectations since I could pack two weeks of clothes + my laptop. I definitely recommend this product.

In summary i would say it's a cracking rucsac for females/kids wanting to carry a fair bit of gear in comfort but without needing to buy a giant and/or expensive rucsac. Great qualiy for the money, very practical, plenty of space for a 45l 'sac and a good hip belt.But take note - the 45l version does not have the ABS adjustable back as the pictures would suggest. I raised this with Highlander and they were absolutely first class, including promising to fix this on the site (so far it still suggests the 45l does have the ABS).I wanted ABS cos it was for my daughter who has a short back (true in general for females compared to men) so was initially disapointed, but the 'sac has a very short fixed length back anyway so it was no problem. For men though, i would say back length would be too short to be able to use the hip belt properly, i.e. to be able to put the majority of a heavy load onto the hips, which is essential over any significant distance.

Great rucksack. I have been using this heavily the last year with travelling a huge amount across Europe and hiking.Brilliant and very comfortable - distributes weight very well.Loads of space but also compacts down when you need it to be smaller. Also used this as hand luggage on over 9 flights and havnt had an issue yet.Extremely satisfied with purchase and I would highly recommend.

Initial impression of this bag is 'wow, this is a cool backpack', it has so many cleverly designed features that you generally get from the more expensive backpacks. Not as big as I thought it was going to be, but loosen compression straps and start filling it up, it nearly doubles in size, plus loads of places to attach gear to the out side. To wear, it's extremely comfortable and sits well, after a while I sometimes forget I'm wearing it. For multiday hikes, you'd probably need larger than the 45L to accommodate a sleeping bag and tent, but for long day hikes it's perfect.

I've been looking for a good work bag (I work in the outdoors) since my old one finally gave out after 5 years. Other bags are cheap and flimsy or have pointless pockets and can't stand up to the riggers or outdoor life.This is one of the best bags I've had. It's strong and comfortable to carry around for a long period of time. After many months, there is no sign of wear on the bag at all; no zips have broken, no fabric worn, no holes and no broken fastenings. Due to a dry winter, I've only tried out the waterproof cover a couple of times but it seems to work well.I've got no criticisms of this bag at all.

I’m ex army and set in my ways as to what Bergen I want to use. This is my first non-military bag and it’s very impressive. The material appears to be very durable yet lightweight. There’s many pouches and pockets for all your needs and supplies. It’s comfortable and good to wear. I’ve bought the 45lt model and it suits my needs. I may purchase the larger one in the future. The seams, zips and seals are all in good working working order and the quality appears sound. I have used Highlander before and know that their kit can take a beating.