Didn't really know how better to phrase that!
Just packing for my next job, a double ascent of Elbrus, and I am fed up of messing about with rucksacks to complement my checked luggage and still be usable once on the job. My Scottish winter sack is an old Grivel Alpinist (the black and yellow one), 52ltr, and it is ideal for what I need to carry (group kit plus my own), but it is long in the back, and 10cm over the airline stipulation, and doesn't break down. As I am transfering from BA to Aeroflot, I don't want the worry of any hassle about its size.
I have a Lowe Alpine 35-45 that is my summer sack, and that is small enough, but it's too much of a squeeze with the group kit.
I also have a MH South col which is great, as the hip belt and back support removes so I can put that in the checked bag, and it is then small enough with the lid removed too, but at 70ltr, it's over kill once on the job.
Soooo, I am looking for a proper 45-55ltr sack that is not over 50cm in the back, or that has a removable back system.
I don't want any of the heroes who can pack enough for themselves and the group into a bum-bag, or any comments on 'I have never needed more than 25ltrs for a 3 week exped'. I am after any real-life experiences of a short-ish or collapsible sack that will do both things.
Does such a thing exist?
Cheers