Daypacks
Daypacks are designed to carry lighter loads and are usually compact. Some have aluminum stays, others are little more than rucksacks. Good models include the Gregory Jade 35, the GoLite Jam, and the Osprey Aura 35. The Gregory and Osprey models are traditional internal frame packs that offer a good carry even with slightly heavier loads. The GoLite is a very lightweight pack and needs to be packed carefully.
Overnight Packs
Overnight and weekend packs usually hold from 3,000 to 4,500 cubic inches, enough for a sleeping bag, a cook stove, some food and a tent. They have beefier hip belts for a more comfortable carry. The Arc'teryx Briza 62 is an overnight pack with comfort features like water bottle holders on the hip belt. Osprey's Ariel 65 was named one of the best packs for women by "Backpacker" magazine in 2006. North Face's Primero 65 is another good choice, as is the Gregory Deva 60.
Expedition Packs
Expedition packs, which hold 5,000 cubic inches and up, are designed for extended backpacking trips and for mountaineering expeditions to the great ranges. Again, women have a lot of options in this category. The Gregory Petit Dru offers plenty of storage space and organizer pockets. The Arc'teryx Bora 95 has external daisy chains to clip things to. Osprey's top model for women is the Xenon 85, which might be a little on the small side for very long trips, but is fine on four-day outings.
