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Good, sturdy youth backpack,
My 10-year-old is small and skinny, finding a backpack with a fitting hip belt was a nightmare. Found the Firefly at the local scout shop, but had to return it as the hip belt was too big. However, saw it again at another local store, for some reason, that hip belt was smaller and this bag is perfect for his size and frame. Sidepockets come in very handy and it did survive a week of being tossed around in Boy Scout Camp. It is true that it is difficult to attach sleeping bag, mat and tent, although a mat can be strapped at the bottom, a non-bulky sleeping bag fits into the bag itself, tent on top. Not ideal, but than, if you want a sturdy backpack that is smaller than your kid yet surprisingly roomy, I can definitely recommend it.

Outdoor Products Firefly External Frame Pack
A great entry-level external frame backpack, the Firefly is equipped for a variety of overnight excursions. The Firefly includes a large top-loading main compartment, dual side pockets, and large front and bottom pockets with access to the main body, giving you 3,750 cubic inches of space in which to store your gear. The pack excels from a hydration standpoint as well, with an interior hydration-ready pouch that holds a 2-liter bladder (sold separately) and a pair of side pouches designed for easy water-bottle access (each holds a 0.5-liter water bottle, also sold separately). Additional storage stems from the lashing tab on the bottom, which can hold such items as a rolled-up tent or sleeping bag.

More importantly for your health, the Firefly’s mesh suspension system keeps you cool even while hauling a huge load, while the ultra-padded shoulder straps and hip belt distribute the weight evenly across your back and hips. The result is a pack that feels comfortable even after several hours on the trail. Finally, the Firefly includes a couple of straps that compress and hold everything together, including a Bungee system on the upper flap and top and mid compression straps.

The Firefly, which also comes with a bonus rain cover, measures 14 by 29 by 9 inches (W x H x D) and carries a lifetime warranty.