Rucksack recommendations?

[RedLeader]

Smaller is better but no good if you can't get all your gubbins in. I can just about get away with a 40L if I strap the tent to the outside but it always looks like it's stuffed to the brim with spanners That's all year round though, obviously in the summer you might get away with less stuff. Take a wander round to Cotswolds and have a play, they're  happy to help in there and you'll get a much better feel for size and comfort. Also, if they have something that you can get cheaper online don't be afraid to ask, they're very accommodating

Definitely keep an eye on comfort, no point having a bag that has all the right specs but that you never want to use because it feels all wrong.

[FairWeatherCamper]

Cheers for all the advice guys. I think I'll try dandering into cotswolds with all my gear (though I'm rarely in town). Will also check Argos for the one Cerbera suggested.

[Rich.H]

Bit late but if you have a tresspass shop near you they are doing a sale. I picked up a 45l rucksack for just over £25. Has a main compartment, reasonable front pouch, and two lid pockets. Then two elastic mesh side pockets. Oh and bottom pocket that stores the raincover (included).

Having used ex military gear etc before I can tell this won't last me that long or enjoy real abuse, but it is handy enough if you just want a good stopgap while you get money for some of the higher end gear.

[FairWeatherCamper]

Thanks Rich. Yeah a stopgap is fine for now. I've only started hiking again, having been into it in my teens, but as with everything I have to try to make sure I actually have the time to do it regularly before I spend a fortune on the high end stuff. Hopefully all my stopgaps will prove to be a waste of money, in that I replace them all with higher end stuff anyway - but then I'll just pass them on to friends and my son.

I'll check out Trespass.

[polroger]

If you are looking for a ultralightweight option - GoLite Jam 50 is fantastic. It will hold everything you need and can reduce its volume when required. Very clever!!

http://youtu.be/l8gWX8O3MF0

http://www.backpacker.com/may-2012-gear-review-golite-jam-50-backpack/gear/16629

[ChuckMcB]

I have to try to make sure I actually have the time to do it regularly before I spend a fortune on the high end stuff.

This more than anything, don't be afraid to start cheap.....my main overnight sack is a £25 Gelert that I picked up from a fishing shop. three years in it's still doing me well.

[Rich.H]

Did you end up getting a pack yet? If not I have a 50l Trespass one unused, I got it on their sale for £20 but it's yours for a tenner if you want?

[FairWeatherCamper]

I never did get one Rich. Yeah I'd definitely give you a tenner no bother. Ill PM you.

[FairWeatherCamper]

Many thanks to Rich.H for sorting me out with a great rucksack. And to his GF who carried it across the country to me! Legends.

Seems like a great job. Can't wait to try it out. :-)