Hi Arianne, The Octal is a much lighter weight and more ventilated pack than the others. It has less pockets than the Amber or Maven, but that is because it is meant to be minimal. I personally preferred the fit of the Octal compared to the other two packs. Keep in mind that the Maven is built to carry up to 50 pounds, the Amber would be best for loads under 40 pounds, and the Octal is built to carry less than 30 pounds. I think your overall pack weight will determine which pack you choose. Give our Gear Specialists a call at 1-800-617-0643 or email Gearspecialist@backcountryedge.com for more specific advise. Good luck, -Becky
Which one do you recommend maven35 or octal45? I dislike big pack. So I bought maven35. But it is really small TT. Can I make octal45 smaller if I remove top cover?
Hi Becky Love your reviews! If this is not fully packed and top lid removed would it meet carry on requirements (22” tall)? In other words how tall is the frame bottom to top? I will be flying to Spain for the Camino.
Thanks for your question. If the lid is not packed out, or if you remove it and use the weather flap, the frame will be around 22" from top to bottom. It'll be cutting it close for TSA and when boarding the flight, so we'd recommend checking with your airline.
I really like the host of show!!
Thanks for posting this video! I can't decide between the Women's Amber 44 or Maven 45 or Octal 45?
Hi Arianne,
The Octal is a much lighter weight and more ventilated pack than the others. It has less pockets than the Amber or Maven, but that is because it is meant to be minimal. I personally preferred the fit of the Octal compared to the other two packs. Keep in mind that the Maven is built to carry up to 50 pounds, the Amber would be best for loads under 40 pounds, and the Octal is built to carry less than 30 pounds. I think your overall pack weight will determine which pack you choose. Give our Gear Specialists a call at 1-800-617-0643 or email Gearspecialist@backcountryedge.com for more specific advise.
Good luck,
-Becky
Thank you so much! This is really useful in helping me decide which one to pick now :)
Which one do you recommend maven35 or octal45? I dislike big pack. So I bought maven35. But it is really small TT. Can I make octal45 smaller if I remove top cover?
The Octal comes with a removable ultralight weather flap for use without top lid, so you can take the lid off!
Hi Becky Love your reviews! If this is not fully packed and top lid removed would it meet carry on requirements (22” tall)? In other words how tall is the frame bottom to top? I will be flying to Spain for the Camino.
Thanks for your question. If the lid is not packed out, or if you remove it and use the weather flap, the frame will be around 22" from top to bottom. It'll be cutting it close for TSA and when boarding the flight, so we'd recommend checking with your airline.
Backcountry Edge Ok Thanks!!