Deuter Aircontact Lite 45 + 10 SL Trekking Backpack for Women

2022-04-13T20:00:00

I bought this as the only bag in REI that didn't hurt my stick-out hip bones (I've a big hip to waist ratio. Have been using it for a year now, for frequent weekend backpacking trips. Needs design improvements: 1. the front pocking is very challenging to load or dig into if the pack is full. 2. cannot get bottle out of the side pockets while walking 3. the side straps that are hidden inside the side pockets are hard to tighten, hard to loosen, and get caught up in whatever one is trying to stuff into the pockets. Also, those straps catch on the pocket itself, making it hard to stretch it big enough to fit stuff in. 4. I liked the top pocket/lid, but it's useless if putting stuff in it unbalances the bag and makes it hard to carry. I removed the top pocket/lid and am using one of the side pockets for those little things instead. 5. It would be awesome to have some webbing-style straps in front. 6. The hip pockets aren't big enough for my phone (dang it!). In which case, I'd rather save weight and have the option of removing the pockets. 7. I'd love a zip to get into the main compartment from the side. Doesn't have to be huge, but big enough to reach in and be able to grab my fuel and stove from the bottom of the pack without having to unpack the whole thing. 8. would appreciate daisy chains on the shoulder straps. 9. the shoulder straps dig into the sides of my boobs when I use the sternum strap. (I put up with it because it makes for a better balanced carry.) Good things: 1. can easily attach and detach poles to the little red straps in front, but have to take pack off first. 2. the top pocket/lid has a clip for your key and a secret pocket for money/cards. 3. It does have extra places on the back to tie on extra bits and pieces. 4. I never use the +10 option, as it leaves no space behind my head to look up, but it does exist as promised. 5. quality materials and zippers, nothing's worn out so far. 6. it can handle heavy loads, even if I can't. I try to keep my pack under 20 lbs, and never over 25. Anyhow, good quality bag, but not a thoughtful design. I'm looking for a better one.

webster c.

Originally posted at