YETI  Skala 50 L Pack - Women's

(This is a very detailed review, because I was lucky enough to receive this backpack for free in exchange for my honest review… so I take it seriously!) Comfort: this backpack is nice and comfortable on my 5‘-5” frame, even when fully loaded. It’s easy to adjust the straps for balance and comfort. I had no issues with rubbing, and the padded/vented mesh back material has good airflow to keep me cooler in the heat. Storage: nice storage options, especially the hip belt pockets (keeps phone, snacks… etc within easy reach. I’ve never had a backpack with belt pockets.) There are also 2 mesh pockets in the top lid, one with a key hook. The mesh allows you to see all items when the lid is unbuckled from the main compartment. Compartments/Zipper: The pack’s main compartment zipper (they call it Ripzip) is easy to grab and open, and it feels much more ergonomic than a standard zipper (small detail, but surprisingly nice!) You can unzip the whole bag and see everything inside without digging around too much. There’s a sleeping bag compartment at the bottom, but you can unbuckled and separate the flap to combine the middle and lower section, which is a feature I’ve never had. (For example, I took it for a family picnic and fit a huge wooden backgammon board inside, by combining the compartments.) Pockets: the two front external pockets are good for keeping wet or dirty gear (they even hold my river sandals, size 7), and there are attachment points for things like a sleeping pad. There’s also an internal hydration sleeve for a water bladder. My one minor complaint, is that the lower side straps cinch down the side pockets, making it harder to access a water bottle. I’d prefer those lower straps behind the pockets instead. I may just unbuckle the lower strap when carrying a water bottle (if I’m not using a hydration bladder.) Construction:  the materials and hardware feel durable and well made. I haven’t tested it in the rain yet, but the material seems like it’s made for that type of weather. I’ve taken this pack on a hike and an overnight camping trip, carrying my sleeping bag, clothes, food, and some small cooking gear. It felt balanced and comfortable the whole time. Overall, I’d recommend this pack for shorter backpacking trips. I will be keeping my 75L backpack for extended adventures, but I think this Yeti 50L will be great for trips, lasting 1 to 3 or even 4 days, depending on the weather. It’s comfortable, well organized, and thoughtfully designed. (I’d give it a 4.75 out of 5 stars, just because of the side pockets.)

Fits everything I need and more for my weekend hiking excursions!  From necessities like my sleeping bag and tent, cookware and food all the way up to my guilty pleasures like a pillow, fan, and pour over coffee pot. This bag has the space and the comfort and you’ll never know that it’s on your back. The hip straps are super comfortable and padded. Overall, a great backpack for those 10 mile hikes!