Backpack Decision Help
Hi, I need help deciding on a backpack that will hopefully be multipurpose. I’m looking for a backpack that works in place of a carry on suitcase that can be used when traveling to places like Europe from hostel to hostel. I’m also hoping this backpack can be used for daylong hiking trips and for work.
I’m traveling soon for my first ecology/wildlife research job in a remote part of western Texas. I won’t have my own car so I must pack with that in mind that getting more clothing or gear is not really a convenient option. Once I unpack all my stuff after the plane in the provided housing, I’ll use this backpack for my job where I’ll be outside 6-8hrs per day and won’t have a ton of access to getting more supplies like food or water throughout these hours either.
I was originally deciding between the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L and the Osprey Daylite 45L because I really like the clamshell opening feature with laptop sleeve (I have a 15” Macbook Air I will be bringing). I feel that these backpacks are the best replacement for a typical roller carry on. But then I realized, maybe I can find a backpack that can be used for hiking as well? I only have my Eddie Bauer Stowaway 20L but it hurts my shoulders with no hip belt if the hike is long and I don’t think it’s large enough for what I need during this job. I’m also a very good packer/organizer and I don’t necessarily need the convenience of a clamshell opening or specific compartments. I’m a very light/minimalist traveler so maybe 42L+ is unnecessary too and I could manage with 35-40L.
To Texas, I’d be taking this backpack as my carry on, along with my Eddie Bauer Stowaway 20L as my under the seat personal.
With that, does anyone know of a backpack that fits this criteria:
Can be used as my travel backpack for both outdoorsy and city type vacations (1-3wks long ideally)
Can be used for my ecology work where I’ll be hiking for prolonged hours (has a hip belt or comfortable straps)
Is 35-40L
is under $230 (but ideally $120-170)
*and (but is not entirely necessary)*
Is available in nice colors such as purple, pink, green, or blue (I love Cotopaxi vibrant colors such as their pink “Fig” color and “Blue Spruce/Abyss” colors)
Has a good warranty (I love Osprey’s lifetime warranty)
Thank you in advanced, I appreciate any response! This is also my first post, so apologies if I didn’t follow certain Reddit etiquette.