How to Choose a Backpack

For thru-hikers who need light, reliable gear that won't sacrifice comfort, the women's Deuter Aircontact Ultra 45+5 SL pack is the answer—it has an adjustable torso length and all the right features.
Imported.
View the Deuter Aircontact Product LineView all Deuter Backpacking PacksBest Use | Backpacking |
---|---|
Frame Type | Internal Frame |
Ultralight | Yes |
Gear Capacity (L) | 50 liters |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 3,051 cubic inches |
Weight | 2 lb. 10 oz. |
Adjustable Torso Length | Yes |
Fits Torso Length (in.) | 14-18 inches |
Fits Waist/Hips | 50 inches |
Material(s) | 175-denier polyester ripstop |
Frame Material | Spring steel |
Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
Pack Access | Top |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 7 + main compartment |
Raincover Included | No |
Hipbelt Pockets | Yes |
Dimensions | 29 x 10.5 x 9.5 inches |
Gender | Women's |
Sustainability | Product meets the bluesign® criteria |
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Every year I take each of my kids on a three (or more) day backpacking trip. My daughter (18) opted for a trip to the Olympic coast. We've been using Deuter packs for years (we're ambassadors) and the Aircontact Ultra is a big leap forward. Deuter packs have always been great for carrying heavy loads, but they were always heavier than other packs. The Ultra is a very lightweight pack, but still somehow lets you carry a heavy load. This year my daughter and I will be backpacking in Mount Rainier National Park and our Ultras will be carrying our loads.
It's unbelievable how light AND durable this pack is! I backpacked and fastpacked in the Alps with this pack for 2 weeks, and am floored at how it held up--given the everyday wear and tear I put it through! I can't wait to take this pack on more missions this summer, and learn how it keeps up. Deuter does have a lifetime repair guarantee, so even if it does tear, I should be in the clear. LOVE! FULL DISCLOSURE: I am a deuter athlete, and am thus biased. That said, I did test their gear before signing on, and would still have this opinion even if I wasn't on their team!
I am 5'4, 145lbs and the pack fits great. It is insane how light it is. The straps were super comfortable, even when weighted down for 3 days. I actually carried most of the groups stuff and never felt sore, even with a previously broken collar bone that usually gives me trouble. I like the durability of the fabric too. Lots of branches and sticks tried to tear us up, but couldn't tear us apart! haha
As a short person with an even shorter torso, in comparison to my height, I have always struggled to find a backpack that distributes weight onto my hips vs shoulders well. The SL feature of this pack fits my short torso so well, while also truly being lightweight. Highly suggest it for short people!! *disclosure, I am an paid ambassador for deuter*
I love my Dueter air contact 65+ for comfort and size. This 45 would have been perfect with a lower weight but when I roll it down, the hard frame length is about 23” and won’t fit for international carry on so I had to return it. There are so few reviews on this bag which is curious. I didn’t even take it on the trail to provide any more feedback.