Why so many Budget Packs Suck (and why this Naturehike DOESN'T)

A budget backpack with an internal frame that’s comfortable and has tons of storage. Backpacking gear doesn’t have to be expensive. This Naturehike 65L backpack is affordable quality!
🏕️ 👉 Help Support AND Shape Dose of Dirt through Patreon: / doseofdirt
⚙Gear Links⚙
-Naturehike 65L Backpack:
-Amazon ($100-$150): amzn.to/3xF1dXe
-Naturehike site ($90): alnk.to/d3Ckbyi
-Teton Sports Explorer (heavy): amzn.to/4axoVmt (new version)
-3F UL Gear (no frame): 3fulgear.com/product/packs/qi...
-Aonijie pack (light but small): amzn.to/3TS9rT8
-Thermodrop thermometer: bit.ly/ThermoDrop
Camera Gear I Use on Trail:
-Action Camera: amzn.to/3UhMNoA
-Main Camera: amzn.to/3vNYXMF
-Main Lens: amzn.to/3vI429j
-Large tripod (light and affordable!): amzn.to/3VXMgJB
-Small tripod: amzn.to/4aV0qzu
-Should strap attachment for DSLR: amzn.to/3VTytE4
-Mics: amzn.to/43VyWaN
Some of the links above are affiliate links. Buying things with the links doesn’t change the amount you pay, but helps support the channel since Dose of Dirt would receive a percentage of the sale. Using the links is a free and easy way to support Dose of Dirt so I can continue bringing you great content!
🔖Bookmarks🔖
0:00 Intro
0:14 Why so many budget packs suck
1:42 Storage pockets and straps
8:33 How much weight can the Naturehike pack carry and is it comfortable?
12:39 Can I use a bladder with the Naturehike pack?
13:04 How did the pack perform on the trail?
14:59 How does the Naturehike pack stack up?
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[@DoseofDirt]

⚙Gear Links⚙ -Naturehike Backpack: -Amazon ($100-$150): amzn.to/3xF1dXe -Naturehike site ($90): alnk.to/g3aWSTI -Teton Sports Explorer (heavy): amzn.to/4axoVmt (new version) -3F UL Gear (no frame): 3fulgear.com/product/packs/qidian/?no=9 -Aonijie pack (light but small): amzn.to/3TS9rT8 -Thermodrop thermometer: bit.ly/ThermoDrop Camera Gear I Use on Trail: -Action Camera: amzn.to/3UhMNoA -Main Camera: amzn.to/3vNYXMF -Main Lens: amzn.to/3vI429j -Large tripod (light and affordable!): amzn.to/3VXMgJB -Small tripod: amzn.to/4aV0qzu -Should strap attachment for DSLR: amzn.to/3VTytE4 -Mics: amzn.to/43VyWaN Some of the links above are affiliate links. Buying things with the links doesn’t change the amount you pay, but helps support the channel since Dose of Dirt would receive a percentage of the sale. Using the links is a free and easy way to support Dose of Dirt so I can continue bringing you great content! 🏕 👉 Help Support AND Shape Dose of Dirt through Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoseofDirt

[@SladeEisenhardt]

It's out! Great review!

[@gud2go50]

I just bought one, so your video has been very helpful. Well done! Thank you.😊

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! I hope it works out for you! For me it has been an excellent buy!

[@OscarBorrem]

@@DoseofDirt bought one too

[@MrJustinRhodes]

You are my hero boss! Thanks for this review.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey! Thanks brother!

[@crewzillakelly3655]

Hi Dose of Dirt I enjoy all your videos including this one. I wish that these companies would make it easier to get the water bottles out of the pockets I find taking off the pack is so annoying I’m definitely going to start rigging my bottles up with the straw adapter to avoid taking off the pack. Keep them coming dose of dirt such great information

[@DoseofDirt]

Thank you! And I TOTALLY agree about backpack companies making it easier to get water bottles out. I've seen a few do some innovative things with the waterbottle pockets that help, but so far those things haven't seemed to catch on with the more budget friendly brands. Not a big deal when you're backpacking with someone, but it's a real pain when I'm hiking solo. To be honest, I don't drink as much as I should because I just don't want to stop and get my water bottle out!

[@benhikescamps]

Really good review. I use the 40L version of this pack. The side hip pockets are pretty small on my version but it has everything that the 65L has. Very good value. Thanks for This video. 👍

[@DoseofDirt]

I've been trying to find the 40L version. I'm wondering if they don't make it any more. Thanks for your comment!

[@joshrayner7167]

​@@DoseofDirtWas just looking on AliExpress at the 60L and it also had the 40L

[@Chris-ov4zc]

Great video - thanks! I have the Aonijie, and it works really good for me for minimalist trips. I've gotten my 20deg F kit in it with 4 days of food, but that's maxed out, with no extra room for any luxuries. Been looking for something a bit larger for trips where I want to bring a bit more gear, but had heard that the shoulder straps on some Naturehike packs are a bit too close together and can rub on your neck. We seem to have a similar build, so it's good to hear that it works for you!

[@DoseofDirt]

That's cool you have the Aonijie. I actually have a few different things from them (including a hydration pack that I really like). I'm curious what tent you use if you are able to use this pack for a.4 day trip in 20 degrees. I'm excited to try it out more. It's just so dang small and comfortable! The frameless 3f UL Gear Qidan is a good option if you want something a little bigger, but don't need a frame. It's a little lighter than this Naturehike (probably mostly because of having no frame).

[@Chris-ov4zc]

​@@DoseofDirt the 20deg kit/4 days of food was last month hiking the Massanutten Mountain Trail. I used a tarp/groundsheet (rainfly from my Lanshan1/0.7mm plastic window film), since the nighttime lows were mid-20s, and bugs weren't out yet. This is my preferred late fall/winter/early spring shelter when bugs aren't a concern, since it provides 360deg coverage, while still being relatively small and light (sub 2 L, sub 1 lb).

[@DoseofDirt]

@@Chris-ov4zc I wondered if you used a tarp. I think I may try that this winter with the fly from my Durston X-Mid 1. I've never tarp camped before. I live in Virginia where the bugs are RIDICULOUS for most of the year, but perhaps some winter trips in several months! Then I could still use the Aonijie. I couldn't believe when I saw the weight and price combo of that 30L pack. Great buy!

[@Chris-ov4zc]

@@DoseofDirt I'm in VA as well, but find a tarp workable Octoberish-Marchish (nighttime lows 40 or below). I think it's definitely worth a try. I tried a square tarp, and didn't like it (felt too exposed), but with a shaped tarp (like my lanshan1 rainfly or your Xmid1 rainfly), if bugs aren't a concern, you get 90% of the coverage, with 2x the living space, for half the weight and volume. I have a S2S nano 1p bugnet that I bring if I want a safety net, but so far, fortunately, I haven't needed it.

[@DoseofDirt]

Awesome! Ya, I am definitely trying it this winter. I've been toying with the idea for a while now and I think you've just talked me into it!

[@andrewknechel6475]

Fantastic review on a backpack I've been researching. Any chance you know which bag this is on the aliexpress site?

[@drthunder8841]

my buddy i go backpacking with has this pack and loves it. he had to get a bigger rain cover though as the one that comes with it doesnt cover the whole pack. other than that its great. curious to see how long it holds up but so far so good! would love to see a video on those shoulder strap trekking pole stashers.

[@DoseofDirt]

Ooh, good to know about the rain cover. Next time I have a pack that comes with one, I"m going to pack it to capacity and see if it fits! I'll make sure I do a video about the trekking pole stashers (and a few other shock cord mods I've done to some packs). Thanks!

[@flutingaround]

Yes, I would love a video to strap those poles!

[@DoseofDirt]

Perfect! I'm working on it right now (along with 2 other shock cord pack mods!). Thanks for letting me know!

[@stoicodysseys6352]

Great review. Budget packs arent my niche, but in my opinion this would be a pack suitable for all purposes and would be a solid pack for someone on a budget who could only have one pack to do it all. Very solid pack and I almost picked one up for a winter pack due to its capacity, but went with a Granite Gear 60L Crown V3. This looks on par with that but less than half the price.

[@DoseofDirt]

I was looking at the GG 60L Crown V3 for a while and am still considering checking one out. seems like a solid pack as well! Even though it's more than the NH, it's still half what many packs are these days. I'm glad we have a lot of different budget options!

[@DaveOffGrid]

Not a bad budget option for a framed pack to go along with the 3F UL Gear non-framed pack! 2 comfortable packs for under $200 is tough to beat.

[@DoseofDirt]

Yessir! I was thoroughly impressed for the price!

[@drockton3]

Pocket on the left front strap that you said you might cut off is for bear spray canister perhaps?

[@DoseofDirt]

Excellent idea! I don't often hike in grizzly country, but this pocket would be perfect for that!

[@lyndseygolden7546]

As some one with boobs I’ve come to really not like frames because it forces the strap to compress lymph and didn’t allow circulation and creates a TOS like sensation. At one point I was having abnormal mammograms so I lost tolerance for that. So I’ve ordered cheap Amazon frameless 60L pack that after fighting a 48 with a bear can I’m really excited to try and carry more than one outer layer and a bigger tent. I’ve ordered a custom pack that comes in September but I’m tired of people only loving $500 bags and not just getting out there and getting what they need. My experience has been the frame isn’t that necessary if you’re not carrying more than 30lbs or hauling fire wood 🪵 I prefer the load close to my body and don’t really want an arc to drag me back down the hill. I think learning to pack in a balanced way makes a bigger difference than the need for the frame. But that’s not the popular opinion.

[@DoseofDirt]

Love this take (and thanks for sharing a perspective that I can'!). I love everything you said! BALANCE! And no need to buy $500 packs!

[@rachelbrain]

Looks a lot like some ultralight framed packs. I bet a huge part of the savings is the material. Nylon is a heck of a lot cheaper than Ultra 200, etc. It reminds me of the Durston Kakwa 55 in many ways. Most rolltop packs are damn similar though. Shoutout to the Teton Sports Explorer tho. It was my first pack when I was figuring out if I wanted to do this thing in the first place. 😅 It's a monster, but it works!

[@DoseofDirt]

Yes, this pack is SUPER similar to packs from Zpacks and other manufacturers. I also have an REI Flash Air 50 that is super similar (but over twice as much). I think Naturehike nailed it with this one. . I really like the explorer. If people want a budget pack that isn't roll top, that's been my go-to recommendation. As you said, it's a monster but it carries well, is comfortable, holds tons of gear, and comes from a great company!

[@pinchpeak5203]

I've been looking at this pack, your endorsement tipped the scale for me, as I've also heard a couple negatives. If it does end up sucking, they have a great return policy. Their tents and sleeping bags are pretty good budget options as well. I've tried the CloudUp 2 and CW400. Of all the Amazon brands, they seem good quality. Thank you!

[@DoseofDirt]

Yes, their return policy gives me more confidence! So far I haven't had to return anything though. I just picked up one of their tents on sale ($50!) to try out!

[@LP-jn4tw]

You solved why my pack rubs my neck, thank you! Excellent vid as always also. 🙂

[@DoseofDirt]

Thank you! Glad I could help solve the mystery! When that neck rubbing goes on too long it's the worst.

[@tippin.turtle]

Just curious if your internal frame is bent/curved at the top? Mine was and postulated if it was shipping damage...lol. Haven't used my pack yet, trying to get my weight down to 28lbs so that I can.

[@natlovell122]

I’ve looked at this pack a number of times. Naturehike makes some pretty cool budget gear. Looking to purchase their Mongar tent soon. Do they still sell this pack in the 45 liter set up?

[@DoseofDirt]

This might be my first naturehike gear item, and I'm impressed. I was also checking out the mongar tent. They have some great stuff! I see there is a 40L version on Amazon, but it says it takes 1-2 MONTHS to ship, so I wonder if it's not really available? I also can't see it on the NH website. Here's an amazon affiliate link to the 40L: amzn.to/49G7eQG I could only get it to come up when I searched 'Naturehike 40L'. Looks like you might be able to get the 40L on aliexpress though?

[@Mr7h21]

Thanks DOD. I have and like my 3F UL Quidian pro pack. But I have two longer duration hikes coming up in the next month. I loaded up the 3F UL with 24/25 pound loadout and within a couple miles my shoulders were killing me. That pack is great under 20 pounds. I do admit I'm 74 and in post Covid shape. These trips are costly so a $3/400 pack was out. I took a flier and ordered the Naturehike 5 minutes after watching tour video. So here we are 6 days after your posting. I've had the pack out fully loaded on two maiden voyages [can you have two maiden voyages?] of 3 and 4 miles. My shoulders felt great. My glutes however got a good workout with more weight on my hips. lol. My second trip is in bear country and the larger bag will make it much easier to carry a canister. Thanks again.

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE!! I've been wanting to try the Quidian Pro (I have the non-pro version). So glad to hear that the Naturehike has been working for you! I have been THOROUGHLY impressed with it!

[@0808anwar]

i also have this NH pack.. good: quite affordable, sturdy waist belt, large mesh front pocket, bad: shoulder strap too long, no option to attach water bag inside.

[@DoseofDirt]

Now that you mention the shoulder strap being long, I remember thinking that briefly as well. It wasn't a problem for me, but I remember noticing that it seemed a had a lot less room to tighten the straps down further than on most packs. And yes, for those that want to use a bladder, this pack may be a bit annoying. NH included the holes for the hose. It would have been nice if they'd included a pouch or even just a clip for the bladder. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@bcamping1]

You can use the rolltop sidestraps as a second sternum strap.

[@DoseofDirt]

interesting idea. I wonder if they would be long enough for me.

[@chilamhuynh1228]

Could you maybe review the Forclaz MT100 Easyfit 50L? This was another budget pack that looked interesting

[@DoseofDirt]

I would LOVE to. Just have to get the funds to purchase one. I've been eying a few decathlon packs. They seem to make good stuff! I've got a running list and these are high on that list.

[@Nickropolis]

This video was needed. Naturehike vs 3FUL and similar packs is a common question and this is a no BS answer. Budget ultralight chair review next?

[@DoseofDirt]

I should do a full comparison of the two. I wish 3FUL made a framed version of their pack! Budget UL chairs is a great idea!

[@brycewalburn3926]

That pack looks fantastic! I wish it came in a 40-45L version.

[@marcvincentapatan5302]

There is one... I looked-up online.

[@brycewalburn3926]

@@marcvincentapatan5302 Ah, you're correct! For some reason, it doesn't show up when I search "Naturehike backpack" on Amazon, but I found it after searching "Naturehike 45L backpack" on Google. Although, I'm definitely still confused because the 45L backpack is heavier than the 65L backpack. It must be an older model.

[@DoseofDirt]

I know Naturehike had one for a while. It's still listed on Amazon, but it says it takes 1-2 MONTHS to ship, so I wonder if it's not really available? I also can't see it on the NH website. Here's an amazon affiliate link to the 40L: amzn.to/49G7eQG I could only get it to come up when I searched 'Naturehike 40L'. Looks like you may be able to get it on Aliexpress though.

[@jeffbarrick6826]

I actually added the pocket on the shoulder strap and use a 20 oz bottle in it that i use as my drink mix bottle. Convenient.

[@DoseofDirt]

Nice! I've never had a water bottle on the shoulder pocket, probably because I like having my camera on one side and my inreach mini on the other.

[@adventureswithgrunt]

I've purchased 2 of these. The first one the metal frame snapped and is too uncomfortable to use without the frame (which I removed). The second one has been good and I like it. Ok up to15kg.

[@DoseofDirt]

Dang, crazy that the frame snapped! I've heard of that happening with other brands as well. They push the limit of the frame to keep it light (which I appreciate) but sometimes the right amount of pressure in the wrong way takes it down. Glad the second one is working out!

[@blade1535]

I think there’s an upgraded version of this with a different material(polyethylene fibre). Not sure what else changed? It’s a touch heavier too

[@DoseofDirt]

Ya, I saw some references to an "upgraded" version but couldn't get it to pull up on Amazon. Would be interesting to see them both and what the real differences are. I don't love that it's heavier, though!

[@adrianbyrne3413]

Please can you quote metric parameters in your reviews -mm, cm, Meters, grams, Kg's etc. It really helps those watching from outside USA. Thanks!!

[@DoseofDirt]

Yes! I usually try to do this, but I see I missed some in this video. Thanks for the reminder!

[@adrianbyrne3413]

@@DoseofDirt Thank you, Take care

[@SladeEisenhardt]

@DoseofDirt Luke from TheOutdoorGearReview has outlined several drawbacks of this bag, expressing strong dissatisfaction: 1) The bag is not designed for women and lacks a unisex appeal. The sternum strap is positioned uncomfortably. 2) The shoulder strap harness systems are excessively narrow and cause chafing around the neck. Is Luke's critique justified? I really wanted to buy this bag but decided against it

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks for including these in the comments. I’m sure a lot of people saw Luke’s video and have the same questions. I saw Luke’s review and it actually talked me out of testing this pack until I saw this video from a smaller channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3Wlf4Ktmrqegbssi=F_pTMV5-6sJ2DO_T Watch this one and see what you think. I’m glad I tried the pack because I think it’s great and pretty comparable to some much more expensive packs. HOWEVER, I know everyone has different takes on gear so I would never say they a piece of gear will work for everyone. Maybe I should have addressed Luke’s criticisms more directly. 1. Regarding use by women, maybe I’ll see if I can get my wife to try it on this week. I know I have a shorter torso and larger chest (44 size suit) and the sternum strap was just fine. I’m going to see if I can get my spouse and daughter to try it on. 2. The shoulder straps are fine. I know my packs all have the shoulder straps a very similar width apart. My neck is anything but slim and running wasn’t a problem for me. 🤷‍♂️ . I’ll update again after my wife tries on the pack.

[@SladeEisenhardt]

Thanks for the answer. I checked my teton scout 55l bag, and it matches up with what Luke mentions is his measurement for the Naturehike. Isn't the teton bag like his favorite??? Something's fishy here 🤔🤔. Maybe this bag just rubbed him the wrong way. I also watched the video you linked and was confused. I trust your review more than anyone else in the space! I literally bought everything you've liked and tested! Keep doing what you do!

[@twloughlin]

You do such good reviews with no muss, no fuss. I'd love for you to take a look at the Decathlon Forclaz Men's MT100 Easyfit 70 L Backpacking Pack. $119, 4.2 lbs. It looks like it might be a pretty sweet pack. TIA.

[@natlovell122]

Decathlon makes some awesome gear. Their mt100 down jacket is one of my fave pieces of kit I own. I saw another KZbinr do a review of that easy fit system and said it was really awesome. I think it was Luke from The Outdoor Gear Review on their 50L pack. Hard to decide what to get with so many options out there

[@twloughlin]

@@natlovell122 I have their puffy as well. Outstanding piece of gear at $89 on sale.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks for this! Yes, that's a pack I would LOVE to check out. Affordable and a more traditional build, but lighter than the Teton. I've heard good things but haven't been able to buy one yet. So many packs and so little time! 🤣

[@iskatoysen]

this backpack has one good option for me specifically, my knife mora 510 can be perfectly placed in lowest part of back under the belt between tubes of frame, it fits tightly and hidden being black in color and can be easely reached blindely by hand in second. i think this backpack is not ideal for tall peaple, I'm 187cm and think it sits way lower than it was designed to fit, but I just use it anyway, I got used to it.

[@DoseofDirt]

I have a Mora 510 as well. I'm going to try putting it down there like you said!

[@MilleniumOfTheComet]

My biggest issue with budget packs and even super expensive ultralight packs is that they are too LARGE! I am a woman with an XS trunk and a bust so I have a hard time sometimes finding a supportive pack that is lightweight and distributes the weight properly on my hips. Unfortunately, it seems many of these packs are designed for man's frame, even if they are considered unisex.

[@DoseofDirt]

I'm guessing this pack will have that same problem since it isn't adjustable (and the sternum strap can only go up so far). The next pack I'm planning to review is the REI Flash 50. it's similar to this Naturehike but lighter, arguably more comfortable, and also comes in three sizes. Do you find you usually have to go for more expensive packs that offer different sizes?

[@pedalparadise4096]

I have the Aonijie 30L pack. At 5'3", it fits my woman's body great because the two sets of cross chest straps can be adjusted up and down so much and the J-style straps allow bust room. If they made a 50L just like it it would be perfect for me. Fits way better than my REI 55L XS with M belt.

[@daisychain4096]

Prolly works well with katadyn befree, pocket that is

[@DoseofDirt]

Ya, good call. Would work well for a hydration flask rather than a rigid bottle.

[@Naglis91]

💪

[@gud2go50]

The Outdoor gear review dude really trashed this pack, but everyone else seems to like it! I’m glad I did not take his advise now.😮

[@DoseofDirt]

Ya, I almost didn't order it after seeing his review, but then I saw an awesome review from a guy who actually used it and decided to order to find out for myself. I'm glad I did! Here's that other review if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3Wlf4Ktmrqegbssi=CKYd9WgFjf4OnvHD

[@user-no2ei6dp2q]

I say stay away from 60 liter plus packs that can’t carry more than 30 lbs comfortably. My exos 58 carries 40 lbs comfortably. What’s the point?😂

[@DoseofDirt]

Ya, I hear you. And honestly, i don't think there's anyway that most of these 60+ liter packs could actually fit that much (and still be carried). It would be ridiculously tall.

[@NoviceWildCamper]

Glad someone else is pushing this pack. I had it a year when luke outdoor gear review absolutely slated it and was wrong in all his comments. I brought out my own response video which clearly shows how his comments were wrong and they match yours pretty much identical. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3Wlf4Ktmrqegbs

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey hey! Thanks so much for your long-term review of this pack! That video was excellent! I had been planning to buy the pack for a while, then Luke's video talked me out of it. Thankfully I saw your video later and made me realize I needed to try it and settle the question for myself. I've sent the link to your video to a few others in the last few days and included it in the comments here a few times because you have long-term experience with the pack and address Luke's criticisms directly. Your video is awesome. Love to see others sharing their experience with budget gear!!

[@NoviceWildCamper]

@DoseofDirt cheers buddy. I also did a long term review of the 3FUL Qidian Pro and compared it with the Naturehike as one of the waist straps on the Qidian pro tore but they've redesigned it now and I've been using it the last year or so now and it's been spot on. I'm going to go back to the naturehike after my review video as I do miss it 👍

[@DoseofDirt]

@@NoviceWildCamper Perfect! Feel free to drop a link here because I know a few have asked for something similar!

[@NoviceWildCamper]

@@DoseofDirt 👍

[@NoviceWildCamper]

@@DoseofDirt this was the comparison one kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnyThJR7r62Zpck

[@Berry_N]

Your naturhike link goes to a 404 site.

[@DoseofDirt]

DANG! Thanks for letting me know. Here's an updated link: alnk.to/d3Ckbyi

[@AllFouRoux]

Oof, they are charging $150 on Amazon right now.

[@DoseofDirt]

DANG! That's a big price hike. You can get it from Naturehike directly using this affiliate link: alnk.to/g3aWSTI It's $90 and says it's ready to ship. I can't tell how much shipping is, but they say it ships within a few days and arrives within 3-5.

[@matwinner9708]

I had that pack and resold it asap because it’s shite

[@DoseofDirt]

I guess we had different experiences with it. What did you get instead?

[@matwinner9708]

@@DoseofDirt I got the 3ful in Xpac; quite a good piece of gear imo

[@DoseofDirt]

@@matwinner9708 Nice! ya, 3F UL makes some great stuff! I've got to get their Quidan Pro and try it out. Thanks for sharing!

[@timsteel1060]

лямки не регулируются - отстой. подушки поясного ремня очень короткие и не выполняют свою функцию - отстой. дальше можно не смотреть.

[@krzysztofm.7085]

Price is no longer an accurate indicator of product quality.

[@DoseofDirt]

Agreed. Some expensive gear IS better (for certain circumstances or types of hikers) but some of it just isn't. You can get quality gear for a reasonable price!

[@Im_With_Stupid]

I've always thought this was a good looking pack, but a common complaint with it has been that the straps are too close together and will dig into your neck. I can see the weight being off causing that and I'm guessing it's just an illusion but around the 14:00 mark it looks like the top of the back pad itself is very crooked. I have to wonder if that's coming from the way the top buckles down, like one side is pulled down tighter than the other. Anyway, what they should've done is what Gregory does and put mismatched buckles on their straps. That way you could lock up the roll top like it's done here or like normal and use those side straps to wrap around the back.

[@DoseofDirt]

I've seen a popular reviewer say that the straps are too close. I was worried about that, but had zero issues with it. My neck is anything but skinny and I didn't have any issues. I measured how far apart the straps are on my other packs and the Naturehike is similar to all of those. Maybe there are some people out there for whom the straps are too close, but they definitely aren't too close for me. . I see what you mean about it looking crooked/uneven. I think I just didn't have one of the straps tightened down as much as the other. it squares up really nice on top when you strap and tighten both sides. . The buckers are such taht you can either buckle up top if you want (and not use the straps/buckles connected to the side of the pack) or buckle it to the side and down. I should have mentioned that specifically in the video, so thanks for bringing it up here. That's why I thought the straps/buckles on the side were superfluous at first.

[@SladeEisenhardt]

​@@DoseofDirt this answers my question in the other comment! Thanks!

[@Im_With_Stupid]

@@DoseofDirt I just remembered, they make a smaller version of this pack, too. It might've been that one that had the neck issues. Then again, Naturehike will make improvements to their products if they need it, so maybe they fixed it.