I have carried the ALICE pack when in the Corps, and went many, many, many, miles with one on my back, and spent 3+ weeks afield with them. I would say go with it. the large pack is great, on top of the cover flap you can secure your sleeping mat, and your sleeping bag can be secured under the bottom of the pack. A normal trash bag fits inside the main cargo area so you can keep clothes dry.the 3 outer pockets have great storage and quick access to esential gear. and you can atatch gear to the sides of the pack with sewn on velcro straps. I have used this pack in the desert,mountains, and jungle and it never failed. The frame is a great asset and a little added foam(secured with duct tape) on the kidney pad and it gets real comfortable. They have newer style military packs on colemans military surplus website (mole compatable) for like $100.00. Good luck Tim