This is a very good hybrid backpack: it is exactly what it says on the can. As advertised by the manufacturer, it is NOT intended as a full-on hiking pack, but more of a hybrid bag  suited to both air travel and urban public transport/walk environments, with capability to do some day hikes, plus some, if you really push it.  I foresee this bag  paying off when you avoid checked luggage fees -- especially if you are a family group. They slip under the size radar and go as carry on. I plan on doing this hiking in europe next year (UK and alps). The back panel, hip belt and harness pack away seamlessly,  and when unfurled do permit you to carry 40-50LB loads for long distances.  I loaded this pack with 35LB of gear and did an overnight camp trip up Mt Whitney (22 miles and 6100 feet altitude gain, overnight frost at 12000 feet). I cannot complain since the bag made it all the way without any structural issues whatsoever, and was comfortable, within reason. I clipped on my dslr camera capture pro plate to the strap and it all worked fine. However to do this I had to jerry-rig the bag  with cord loops top and bottom for mats and sleeping bags and over fill both the main and piggy back bags. I pushed this bag past its hybrid limit. On the Whitney hike would have been quite a bit better off with a larger 65L old-skool classic backpack, with lots of external straps and pockets (I really missed these). I think I unintentionally crossed the barrier between the bags intended and not-recommended use and so would not recommend it for full-on hiking trips.  My next  hiking trip in europe will be more hut-to-hut with restaurant meals,  and this bag will be a perfect fit for that style of travel. This bag is great, but don't expect portage miracles.