As an avid backpacker, I've lived for months at a time with it being just me and my rucksack. I've had three rucksacks throughout my nomadic career and I'm happy to say that I've found the perfect setup. It's big, it's roomy, it's comfortable to wear and as far as I can tell, my Lowe Alpine pack will last be for years and years of tramping.
When purchasing a good rucksack, you must consider your back and shoulders – they will despise you IMMEDIATELY if you choose a less-than-ideal option. This is one area, if you're planning an extended trip, especially into the wilderness, that you DO NOT want to skimp on. Don't settle for the basic $50-100 pack, unless you travel light, or for very short trips. Because, let me tell you, I did this once. My first extended European trip started with a crappy, cheap backpack, much too small, and much to my dismay, a totally wrong build for the usage I was putting it to. I ended up ditching it the first day in Barcelona and buying an overpriced backpack. Months later, I found a solid rucksack, and even then, it was too small and too hard on my back.
But there is hope, my friend! There is! Read on and I'll tell you more about my experience with Lowe Alpine...

Last week, my better half and myself had the pleasure of experiencing Telluride. I had been there once for a few hours two summer's ago, and I had raved about how unique it is there, and so my beloved was highly anticipating the trip. She was not disappointed. During our time in Telluride, we toured the mountains nearby, but was barred by some late snow conditions in some higher elevations. We camped in the town, thoroughly enjoying the nearby hikes, the waterfall, and the town itself. Telluride is a different breed of town, an evolution, if you will. It's lovely, truly. Where else do you have the sort of community feel, and layout as Telluride. They have a Free Box, where you can give your unneeded clothes and things for others to use, who need it. There is a lovely city park near the skate park, and baseball diamond, there are outdoor stages and grill areas, and more, unlike any place I've known. I could live there.

Okay, enough about the town. Another aspect that makes the town what it is, is the people, and their personalities, of course – but it is also the food they make. What can I say that won't sound like hyperbole here? Seriously, the Rustico in Telluride, Colorado is a sterling gem.