I am looking for a small backpack to hold a shovel, probe spare fleece etc. I don't want it to be too bulky. What brand & model of backpack are people using?
I bought a nice pack at Mountain Equipment Co-Op. Been using it now for about 8 years and it is still as good as new. When I replace mine I will be going back there.
I use a SOS and my son (18) uses a Klim. They serve slightly different purposes so my suggestion is to look at a few and determine what is important to you and then find the right one.
I have had a BCA bag nice and light, lacking in storage, but has a bladder system included. I have a SOS bag, lots of storage,is water bladder capable, almost to many pockets to remember where everything is. Now use a ABS pack, (Escape 15), ample storage, comfortable, only down fall is the price, but then what is a life jacket in really rough water worth to one who's not a good swimmer? ..............You never know.
I have the Deuter Futura pack with a mesh frame that keeps the actual volume of the pack away from you, so your Goretex can still breath. It's super light and comfortable.
MEC carries them for $83.
If you open the link then click on "Aircomfort Futura" at the bottom, there is a diagram and explanation of the features.
I agree MEC doesn't promote sledding as a great outdoor recreational activity. I haven't found another place that carried the Deuter backpacks in Edmonton, however.
For just a small pack I use the MEC Dragonfly. For a much nicer shovel, probe, camera and hydration friendly pack I use a Dakine Heli Pro. Heli Pro is an amazing pack.
I bought a pack from MEC a few years ago that works really. Can't find it on their website anymore. I just bought a Dakine Helipack. It's not too bulky either.