The Expedition is if nothing else, a well kept secret. I have owned several packs including a Dana Terraplane and find this pack to be my all time favorite. It carries very well, especially winter gear or times when you need to bring extra equipment with you in the summer. There are several pockets that make packing a breeze: 2 waterpockets with strap closure; 2 zipper side pockets in front of the mesh water pockets that can hold cameras, gloves, etc; a duel pocket top lid plus a large pocket in the shovel harness. A sleeping bag compartment that swallows the largest of bags and even some additional gear. Perfect also for carrying snowshoes, etc..

The Expedition is also very easy to adjust at home and in the field. The materials used resist the scraping and rain although I do use a pack cover in bad weather.

You can certainly spend more money but doubt you will end up with a better pack.

Customer Service

LL Bean is second to known in customer service. No hassle friendly rep's that are eager to satisfy.

Similar Products Used:

Dana Terraplane X; various Gregory packs