IMO it depends on what you actually need the pack for.
Gather up what you feel you need to "get home" from where ever..
Figure what it all weighs. Figure out how much space you need, ie how big of a bag do you really need.
Take into consideration all climates.. Winter, Summer, etc..
Once you have your gear set and weighed then shop for a pack.
Honestly I know some of the higher priced packs are great and some cheap ones won't hold up but my EDC bag which I use as a BOB, GHB, etc is just a cheap old Jansport that I picked up for about $30.
I would also suggest looking at second hand stores, good will, rumage sales, etc for used ones.
Just my opinion..
Gather up what you feel you need to "get home" from where ever..
Figure what it all weighs. Figure out how much space you need, ie how big of a bag do you really need.
Take into consideration all climates.. Winter, Summer, etc..
Once you have your gear set and weighed then shop for a pack.
Honestly I know some of the higher priced packs are great and some cheap ones won't hold up but my EDC bag which I use as a BOB, GHB, etc is just a cheap old Jansport that I picked up for about $30.
I would also suggest looking at second hand stores, good will, rumage sales, etc for used ones.
Just my opinion..