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I'm getting the impression most people on this thread are interested in best-bang-for-least-buck kind of bags, so my choice of pack isn't going to help too much. But, I do have a cheaper favorite. I use a GoRuck GR1 pack ($300 retail but I got mine for $160 since it was in woodland) because I discovered the hard way that buying cheap gear ALWAYS bites you in the butt. It's the perfect size, 28 liters forces you to prioritize for a 3 day hike, but isn't a limp rag if you are just carrying a book or two to class. Plus the GR1 has an unusual square design that I haven't seen on any other bag that really helps the pack hug your back and ride comfortably and help avoid wasted space. It is a military type bag, but its minimalist design (few and unobtrusive molle webs, especially if you get it in black) helps you avoid looking like a gear-tard. Additionally, it's in-freaking destructible, I've used it to as a sling to help carry a 700 lb log/tree among other things. But, it is crazy expensive, so the pack I used previously was the Condor 3 day assault pack mentioned earlier. It's cheap, roomy (a little too roomy) fits in the overhead compartment on a plane fully stuffed, and pretty durable. Mine got me through a week in the Panamanian rainforest just fine, just get a waterproof pack cover for it. It's fairly comfortable with 40 lbs, it's got hip straps, so that helps. Cons, it does kinda make you look like a military wanna be bundle of sticks.....
