I love this camelbak!!!! - CamelBak UrbanAssault XL Hydration Pack - 70 oz/2.0L Black

I decided to purchase the Camelbak UrbanAssault XL Hydration Pack primarily for school. I recently returned to the civilian world (was active duty military for 5 years) and returned to college to complete my degree. I had previous experience with Camelbak, having used a "M.U.L.E." while on active duty. The reason that I got a Camelbak instead of a regular backpack is because it allows me to drink water all day leaving both of my hands free. I found out that by having a few sips every few minutes you can go through 2 liters pretty fast. The UrbanAssault XL is a big backpack. In addition to carrying my school supplies (laptop, notebooks, books, pencils pens, etc) I also carry gym clothes, shoes and lunch (and sometimes dinner). Yes... there is room for all that and more. In the occasions that I decide to take a trip to a neighboring city (like San Diego) I use it as my only luggage. I can fit clothes for 3 days. The Camelbak comes with a 2 liter bladder that I use occasionally. When I need to bring the laptop to school, I remove the bladder and use a Camelbak BetterBottle with a hose adapter. The BetterBottle conveniently fits in one of the 2 side pockets. Unfortunately, I had to buy the bottle and hose separately. The other pocket is used either for my large coffe cup or for any cables that I might need for my laptop. All this, however, would be useless if it was uncomfortable to carry. I read a couple of reviews where they feel that the straps feel uncomfortable because they said that it places a lot of weight on the lower back. After a little experimenting, I found out that if you are carrying a large load (like I often do) it is comfortable if you use the chest strap. when you clasp the chest strap, it brings the shoulder straps closer together and it feels comfortable. I sometimes walk to school (about 3 miles) and while I do feel the weight of the pack, it is not uncomfortable. Hopefully somebody finds this useful. I definitely recommend the UrbanAssault XL.
Pros: Sturdy, spacious, lots of pockets, comfortable
Cons: Price

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.