Big back pack for a commuter
 

Currently I have a very old back pack that is very simple but it's age is starting to show. I have no idea how big it is but what I put in it are pants, shirt, underwear, towel, computer and accessories, toiletries, tools and camel back bladder. Since this is not it's original purpose it's a bit awkward but works well. I like to use this setup with with my better road bikes and I have no trouble with my back using this setup (see my Camelbak page to what I normally carry on my Saturday centuries). I also have a Trek 1100 and B.O.B. trailer but I prefer not to ride that all the time. That I can really load up.

What I'd like to get is a new back pack. I found an inexpensive one that has a frame but it block my ability to look back also it load very awkwardly. I've done a little searching of the internet but I can't tell from the pictures the size of the pack. Most of the local stores have school packs which aren't big enough. I'm looking for tips on how to measure the pack I've got and (a real stretch) maybe a recommendation for a store that might have something I can look at (I'm in Central NJ).

Thanks

Packs are typically measured by volume (cubic inches in the USA). It's hard to measure them any other way because of their nonstandard geometry. Your best bet is to bring your current pack and find something that's of comparable size, just eyeballing it.

Another approach, of course, is to lighten your load. I keep toiletries in my desk at work, also computer accessories (and most days computer as well), and I carry a bike bottle instead of a big ol' camelbak.