Wow is all I have to say. Looks like you guys had an awesome time.

So much jealousy. That's a beautiful bike.

Roger, dodger.

On REI's web site you can check inventory of a given item at a given store. Back that up with a phone call to to confirm and have them put one aside with your name on it before burning gas.

I like to first try on anything I plan to wear, including packs. The packs you're looking at come in S/M and M/L, btw.

Cheers...

Thank you very much!

I don't think you'd be compromising at all by using said bikepacking pack for non-bikepacking uses. At the size/cargo you're talking, you'll have plenty of capacity. I'd say don't even think about pedestrian uses if you're going 20L and up. If you question it at all, take your contents to the store to see how it fits. You're going to try them on before purchase anyway, eh?

 
Well I haven't had much luck finding them in local stores, may have to make the long trek out to REI to check if they have em.

Alright, so I'm looking into getting on Osprey pack pretty soon but there's a bit of a catch. I'm looking into something in the 20L to 30L range but because of my financial situation it's going to have to double as my daily carry backpack as well. Will I be able to easily fit a 13" laptop, a few folders, writing utensils, and possibly a light change of clothes (gym shorts, socks, and a light shirt) in a pack of this size?

Thanks in advance!

Alright, I'd be looking at going when temps are like they are now, in the upper 60's during the day, so hopefully that means I can have a little wiggle room when it comes to water. And again thanks for all the advice! Definitely making the learning process a lot easier for me right now. I'm thinking I'll purchase a sleeping bag in the near future to see how I like it.

As far as maps go could I make do with printed ones or would it be in my best interest to invest in some sort of GPS? Also, would it be possible to make it 48 hours on just the water you can carry?

Wow, everything I needed in an answer and more! Thanks for all the info! I've ridden the 3 Bridges portion of the Arizona Trail before so I'm familiar with that area (I believe it connects with Pistol Hill farther north), may be a good place to start since it has that camp site with the water spigot.

Hey, I just recently took interest in bike packing and was curious if there are any good beginners trails near the Tucson/Vail area. Something that could be accomplished in 2 to 3 days would be ideal. Trying to gauge whether it would be worth my while to invest in the gear beforehand.

Thanks in Advance!