Both my Palante V2 pack and TarpTent ProTrail Li were amazing. I wouldn’t switch either of them out unless something much better came along. Neither item had any significant drawbacks or pitfalls, that would warrant a change.

The V2 pack was the perfect size for my pace. At no point did I feel I needed more room to carry more food or gear. The bottom stash pocket was one of the big reasons I wanted to try the pack in the first place, and it didn’t disappoint. I used it daily for both my trash and to store my rain/wind mitts, as well as my beanie on cold days. The only thing I missed were hip belt pockets, but I managed without them. A fanny pack might be the answer here.

The TarpTent ProTrail Li was another item I had my eye on for a while. It is the improved cousin of the Contrail by Tarptent which I used on the PCT. The biggest difference between them is the ridge line and rear window on the ProTail. The ProTrail is a snap to put up, has amazing ventilation, plenty of room, and a smallish foot print. Because of these factors I would definitely use it again.