User Review: Deuter Aircontact 65+10

Summary

Given its size, this pack is a breeze to carry no matter the weather. And it's tough as nails. Mine has seen 2 years of hard SAR use both on and off track with barely a scratch on it.

At 6'4" yet only 65kgs, I've found this pack a breeze to use over the last 2 and a half years. It sits nicely on my long back and adjusted right will hardly move, with no venting issues. Hip belt pocket is decent size yet even when full doesn't get in the way of the straps.

One of the key features to me is the Camelbak cooler I've attached to its gear loops on the back, now just sliding the bladders in and out as I need them. Keeps my water separate from my pack in case of leaks or burst. The various pockets around the sides and top have found themselves uses over the years to the point most of my good friends now know exactly which pocket something is in.

Space and weight wise, I've never really had a problem, quite often use for 7-day expeditions. With the pockets everywhere, I can fit what I need where I want it, pretty much all the time, and have even managed to squeeze in car battery (for a radio repeater) on top of my 48 pack without much issue. With Search and Rescue (SAR), I've had up to 30kg in it, which is the point you start to feel it. Anything under 22kg has never been a problem, and for most trips I only have 15kg.

Construction wise, this pack has surpassed my expectations. I've thrashed as you can probably tell from the loads I've squeezed into it, but I have yet to find noticeable fraying let alone tears. I've used in everything from middle of winter Alpine here in New Zealand too middle of summer beach over in Australia through all associated weather and never find it lacking.

In conclusion, for a weekend to week long trip, this pack will serve you well.