I have tried so many bags...and I don't mean just flop it on willy nilly. I've tried bags from Osprey, Gregory, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, REI, Black Diamond, Arcteryx, Fjallraven, Gossamer Gear, Mystery Ranch and Deuter to name a few over the last few years. I adjust, readjust, shift the weight around, change shoes, and walk probably at least 30 miles in circles in my house before I make my mind up on any anything. This bag is the most comfortable bag I have ever put on. I put 200-300 miles on my last gossamer gear gorilla before trying this but I just still wasn't sure if it was the perfect bag. Once I put this on I cut the tags off instantly...I have never felt so sure about anything! The straps, hip belt and back have the most perfect cushion. The frame sends the weight to my hips so well. The frame also removes easily and can tilt in the bag for airline travel carry on dimensions (I never check a bag). The straps are well spaced at my neck so they don't hurt like the Gossamer Gear Kumo or Hyperlite bags. It is lightweight and carries anything I put in it like a dream. I am so mad I didn't just order this when it first came out...would have saved me a few hundred dollars and so many other tries. I didn't get the strap pockets because they weren't instock and I am leaving soon for a trip but my chicken tramper gear pockets fit well with no modifications. I love the size of the hip belt pockets! They can fit a Lenny and Larry's cookie which is nice! I can reach the water bottle pockets very easily which is usually a struggle for me. I can't wait to take it on my 100 mile!! Thank you Outdoor vitals! This bag is perfection!