Osprey - Ariel 65 AG EX Pack - Women's

This is my first real backpack is 20+ years and, wow!, have they changed! I'm glad I got fitted instead of buying online as I would have purchased the wrong size. I'm 5'3" and purchased an xsmall. The frame was adjusted in REI to fit me specifically and I cannot complain as it is perfect! I put it on, make the connections, pull the straps tight and I'm ready to go. The internal frame is a dream. It doesn't poke or prod and doesn't feel heavy. I've only worn it a handful of times, but it already feels as if it is molding to me. The hip belt is comfortable, but sometimes rides up slightly if my pack is on the light side. I could adjust the pack to compensate for that, but haven't as it hasn't bothered me thus far. Shoulder straps are in the perfect position and don't rub under my arms. I can tighten/loosen the straps with the quick release easily. There are pockets on the side for water bottles, but I haven't used them yet as I prefer the internal water pack. The water resevior has it's own compartment and is integrated into the pack. Love this feature! I'm sure I'll appreciate the water bottle pockets on longer treks. The sleeping bag compartment is in the right place at the bottom of the pack and I like that I can stuff it from the bottom of the pack. There is a false bottom between the sleeping bag compartment and the rest of the pack. You can also remove the top part of the pack and use as a daypack (haven't tried this yet) and there is storage for trekking poles, another nice feature. Additionally, there is exterior pocket that is easily accessible when the pack is off for snacks, bandanna, etc.. The hip belt pockets are small, but I like them for gloves, compass, and sunglasses. I looked at a lot of packs online and liked the reviews on this one. I was sold when I went into REI and they had it in the store to try out. Great aesthetics too - I was torn between th blue and gray. I bought the gray and it is beautiful! I look forward to some multi-day hikes in this pack. I hope it holds up well over time.

I had the first version of this bag which had some cool features, but was definitely in beta. This bag, with the removable lid that turns to a full backpack for day hikes, and the top loading as well as front access, with the even more comfortable waist belt is everything that I hoped it would be. I can use it for anything, from an overnight camping trip to a longer hostel based adventure. I absolutely love it and recommend it to anyone!

I bought this for my first backpacking trip and it was awesome! I was back and forth a lot but so glad I went with this bag in the end. Worked great and super comfortable.

I love this backpack, it has a lot of compartments and little areas to hook things on, very comfortable, and the best of all is that it came with a 2l hydrobag for it, I also love the little backpack included in the pack.