Quoted:
Ok I am going on an extended trip and have been looking at purchasing a new or newer style extended hike or expedition pack for my trip. Its been a while since I purchased a new pack, and I know things have progressed quiet a bit technologically with these packs in terms of construction and weight. The only large pack I have is a Large ALICE which has never failed me, and I have been happy with. However I don't really want to use a large external frame military pack , as I imagine flying with one will be a PITA concerning checked baggage. I have been looking at 60 to 70 liter internal frame packs that are roughly around 62 linear inches ( this is an airline baggage size consideration) .
As crazy as this question may sound, are there any decent deals in Internal frame packs for around $150 ? I have considered spending more, but I would prefer not to unless everything in that price range is cheap crap. I have even looked at buying a CFP 90 as they are relatively cheap right now on ebay, however that option is the last pack on my list as I have found a few used dana designs and Lowe Alpines of that same vintage and price range on ebay as well.
I greatly appreciate helpful input from people knowledgeable about the newer packs.
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The first thing you need to do is go to a site such as REI or EMS, and read up on I-frame packs. In order for the load-bearing waist belt to work properly, the pack must be the right length for your torso. There are instructions on those sites that will guide you in determining whether a particular pack will fit you--or not. Some packs have adjustments, some don't. Some bags have different torso lengths, some don't, and various combinations of the above.
I take it that 62 linear inches is length plus girth, correct? If so, then the CFP-90 is out for that reason alone. In addition, the black plastic "duck's foot" that acts as an interface between the shoulder straps and the pack body is frail, and can crack, making the pack almost unusable. If that part is replaced, then the pack is GTG, but still too large for your purposes, I think.
For an airline-acceptable pack, you might get away with a simple frame sheet, although this might be stretching things.
Speaking of airline-acceptable, not all airlines use the same size limits; this chart might help, but consult your airline beforehand:
http://travel-made-simple.com/carry-on-size-chart/
You can usually add a sheet frame using 1/16" thick HDPE sheeting obtained from graingers. Just make certain that your completed sheet frame has NO sharp edges or corners, lest such damage the fabric of the pack. Doing so is a hassle, so bonus points if the pack you're considering has one, or the mfr offers one as an accessory. It's a must-have, IMHO.
I'm hesitant to recommend a specific pack for your needs because of the variability of the airlines size requirements. What is acceptable to one airline may be too big for another.