Features nylon 4,750-cubic-inch backpack with top-loading main compartment and front-panel access Top-loading main compartment, zippered side pockets, and large front pocket Cloudlock 2 suspension system and twin LightBeam II stays for carrying heavy loads Top lid converts to fanny pack; hydration-compatible; load-lifter straps Measures 16 by 34 by 16.5 inches (W x H x D); weighs 5 pounds 1 ounce Description Fill it up, or strap it down! The versatile Coyote features the load-bearing, easily adjustable Cloudlock II suspension system, quick access pockets, durable design, and an unbeatable price. Looking for the perfect long-weekend pack? Look no further than the Kelty Coyote 4750, which includes a high-quality suspension system that's valued for its unrivaled stability. The Coyote 4750 is built to support you over the long haul, with such ergonomic features as the Cloudlock 2 system--which is designed to carry heavy loads while preserving stability--along with twin LightBeam 2 stays that effortlessly absorb shock. Wearers will also appreciate the quick-adjust torso system, which adjusts to fit a user's unique shape, and the S-shaped shoulder straps, which contour to the body without rubbing or chaffing. And thanks to the pack's cross-ventilation system within the waist belt and back panel, you'll stay cool and comfortable even as the day wears on. The Coyote 4750 backpack includes a comfortable Cloudlock 2 suspension system. The pack is also incredibly sturdy, with a body made of 600-denier polyester ripstop and 600-denier polyester oxford and a reinforcement fabric made of 610-denier polyester cordura. Perhaps the most important feature, however, is the ample amount of storage space. The 4,750-cubic-inch pack includes such chambers as a top-loading main compartment with front-panel access, a large front pocket, zippered side pockets, and mesh water bottle pockets. And as a bonus, the pack's top lid detaches and converts to a fanny pack, making it easy to take day hikes from your base camp. Other details include hydration compatibility, a reservoir sleeve, a daisy chain, side and load compression straps, a spindrift collar, an ice-axe loop, lash tabs, a key fob, and a carrying handle. The Coyote 4750 measures 16 by 34 by 16.5 inches (W x H x D), weighs 5 pounds 1 ounce, and fits torsos in the range of 14 to 22 inches. All Kelty packs carry a one-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship. Amazon.com Backpack Guide Finding the Right Backpack For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack: Internal vs. External Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity. The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs. There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models. External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable. If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields. Packs for Shorter Trips In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do. Sizes and Capacities Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.