Deuter ACT Lite 40+10/35+10

£130 Capacity 40 to 50 litres/35 to 45 litres Back sizes adjustable (men’s Act Lite 40+10); adjustable (women’s Act Lite 35+10) Weight 1714g

There is more capacity, and support in the back system, than some designs and you also get a floating lid to allow that capacity to be adjusted by raising the lid. Importantly, there’s a baffle linking the lid to the body which prevents water creeping in under the lid when the pack is half empty. The very supportive Vari Quick back system allows users to raise or lower the shoulder straps, while raised padding creates airflow. The body has lid and base compartment access. Good lid pockets and a front stash pocket are provided, as well as one zipped hipbelt pocket and good compression straps with quick-release buckles.

This is an extremely heavy rucksack compared to others on test – even without the addition of a raincover – due to the very stiff and supportive back system designed for heavier loads. So if you are not carrying a lot of stuff this pack may be over-engineered for your needs. Others have slightly better pockets, such as two rather than one on the hipbelt, a deeper front stash pocket and even an additional zipped external pocket. The price tag is a little higher than some designs, and you are not getting a body made from pricey nylon either (it’s a polyesterbased material).

Ideal for big loads and frequent overnight trips thanks to extra support from the back system; the drawback is the weight and the less competitive price.