Looking for rugged airline carry on backpack, also good for hiking

Tactical Gear Tactical Gear
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I’m looking to get a carry on size (22" x 14" x 9") backpack that could double as a bag for short (1 or 2 overnight) hiking trips. As such, I think a solid hip belt, shoulder straps with some real padding, and rugged construction are a must. I’ve done a lot of research on my own, but many of the bags either aren’t quite ideal, or seem way too expensive for what they offer. I’m okay with spending the extra money if there is a clear benefit proportional to the extra cost, but maybe there is a good compromise out there I just haven’t heard of yet.

Here are some of the packs I’m considering so far… but I’m open to any new suggestions as well.

-Eagle Creek Rincon: Looks like it would be ideal, but I have yet to see it for under $200. I know Eagle Creek makes really nice stuff, but it seems overpriced when you can get a high quality bag like a Kelty Redwing for only $75.

-TAD Fastpack EDC: Pricey like the Rincon, but unlike the Rincon, I’ve seen some decent prices on auction sites. A little smaller than some of my other considerations. Leaning away from this one unless due to the high price and the smaller size, but if I’ll consider it if someone can convince me it is worth the price.

-Blackhawk Phoenix Patrol Pack: Doesn’t seem to be a lot of reviews out there, but the specs and price seem okay. Don’t know enough about this one or the quality of Blackhawk bags to know if it is a good choice or not. There is also a similarly size lighter version I’m looking at.

-Guerrilla Packs Airporter: Seems like a less expensive version of the Rincon, but there aren’t may reviews out there and I’m not sure I want to take a gamble on a more or less little known brand.

-Kelty Redwing 44: Reasonably priced (less than half the price of the Rincon), good brand, but technically too big. I would have to be very careful not to overpack. This would probably be my top pick if it weren’t too big.

-5.11 RUSH 72: More or less the same benefits and problems as the Kelty Redwing.

So, any thoughts on the packs I’m considering so far? Any good candidates I haven’t mentioned? Thanks everyone!

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I thought about getting one of the TAD packs, as I’m a big fan of their Ranger hoodies, but couldn’t justify the cost.
I “settled” on the 5.11 72 and have been more than happy with it. It’s been on two night camping trips, as well as a 10 day Hawaii trip as my sole piece of luggage to avoid the ridiculous baggage fees.
It has a TON of pockets inside, which is good and bad, as I had to triple check to make sure I got all of the nefarious camping items that TSA might frown upon.
I’m split on the molle on the exterior though. Part of me thinks its cool because its such a different look from regular REI type backpacks, but on the other hand I feel like too much molle on a civ comes off as airsoft whacker. Oh well.
BTW I have heard good things about kelty products. FWIW

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My mainline backpacks for flying have been Eagle AIIIs, LBT 3-days, Camelbak HAWGs. I also hike with them in the backcountry and use them for my go-bags. I’ve flown with them on puddle jumpers, small commuter jets, and larger airframes and not had a problem with their size or airline rules even when stuffed.

A buddy swears by his MR 3DAP.

There are a number of threads here at M4C with details on various backpacks out there and in use by members here.

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I’ve had the exact same thoughts. On the flights I’ve gone on the past few years it seems the military style is common enough that I’m not too worried about excessive attention.