I have used this pack for three years on about a thousand miles of backpack trips. It has never failed me at all. it stayed comfortable even on a 22-mile day in New Mexico. I've only filled the thing to capacity once, and that was when I was carrying my gear as well as four days of food for a ten-man crew from the food drop to camp. for the features, this is dirt cheap.

Similar Products Used:

Mountainsmith frostfire, Lowe Alpine Coutour IV

I have owned this backpack for about 5 years now, and have used it for everything from car camping, backpacking, storage, moving...anything that needs to be carried or packed away. This pack is really comfortable, and the suspensions system is easily adjustable. I like the setup of the top loading system with the additional zippered opening on the bottom, so you dont have to take out your whole load to get to your gear on the bottom. It seems to me for the size, and the features this pack is a great deal. I have been really happy with it.

Customer Service

no exp

Similar Products Used:

North Face Yavapai, Lowe Alpine

I have owned this backpack for about 5 years now, and have used it for everything from car camping, backpacking, storage, moving...anything that needs to be carried or packed away. This pack is really comfortable, and the suspensions system is easily adjustable. I like the setup of the top loading system with the additional zippered opening on the bottom, so you dont have to take out your whole load to get to your gear on the bottom. It seems to me for the size, and the features this pack is a great deal. I have been really happy with it.

Customer Service

no exp

Similar Products Used:

North Face Yavapai, Lowe Alpine

A good pack for a beginner or intermediate. Something to start out with until you know exactly what you want. While the price listed here is $200 the bag goes on sale a lot, and I got mine for about $125.

Customer Service

REI has excellent customer service, I've never had a problem with their service, and they always are willing to replace their own products.

Similar Products Used:

None

I just bought this pack and i have been very happy thus far with it. It has tons of space, and carring system distrubutes the weight very well. It has lots of straps that are adjustable, and hold the pack very close to your body. I've used several other packs that have fancier features, but for the money i haven't seen anything better. My only complaint is the drawstrings sinchers are kind of flimsy.

Customer Service

Customer service is amazing. they were very helpful in the purchasing products

Similar Products Used:

kelty,north face,jansport

I used the new star for about 5 years now and have been satisfied with it. I bought early in my Backpacking career because of price. It has been exactly what I expected, nothing more or less. It is comfortable and fits perfectly, I got the large and I'm 6'. The waist belt has always had trouble staying tight, and i've cleaned it. Nothing to inconvenient though, just have to tighten it every once in a while. It is an excellent no frills pack and has been quite durable. An excellent pack for newcomers and first timers.

Customer Service

REI helps fit you to the pack and it to you. They're always great.

Similar Products Used:

Gregory and Dana Designs

Always stick with REI when purchasing gear. I really like this pack. Great for beginner or intermediate camper, Decent for avid packer. Light versatile and nice lumbar support. Wish the top bag seperated, but my pack is about 5 years old, so they may now. Price is decent, usually can find them for $ 180- 190, despite popular beleif. Like the easy access to gear. Nice add on possibilities.

Similar Products Used:

Osprey packs are not my favorite. Wife carries an Osprey, but it's her back.

Overall, this is a very solid pack. I recently bought the newest model and took it on a trip to Indian Peaks wilderness. I have used both the Kelty Slickrock and the Lowe Contour IV and found the Great Star to be as good if not better. I especially like the large front horseshoe-shaped panel which gives easy access to gear. It is very spacious and has a solid suspension. For the money, you can't beat it. the only reason it gets a 4 star on overall ratings is because there is always something bigger and better out there.

Customer Service

I believe REI has customer service that is second to none. I have done several returns and exchanges there and not once have I ever received any flak about it.

Similar Products Used:

Kelty slickrock Lowe Contour IV

My husband and I both own REI New Stars that we have used for multi-day backpacking trips in the Sierras. The New Star fits well. Dont mind the lack of a sleeping bag compartment. My only complaint is that the detachable fanny pack on top is does not close down well.

Customer Service

Good customer service. Have exchanged a sleeping bag after two years without troble.

I have had this pack for 4 years and it still holds up great. Been to New Mexico, Yukon, the Sierras and Appalaichains with it. The Top compartment does not strap down very well and the mesh water bottle pockets don't work very effectivley.