Thanks for all the advice folks, it’s much appreciated.
@ Whitstable Dave – I’ve got a Mountain Warehouse soft shell, fantastic wee jacket. Too large (I went a size up as I wanted it baggy) and warm for me to use as a mid-layer though…….another item I’ll need! I never even thought to look at them, defo worth consideration, if it does the job I’m not fussed about the logo that’s’ stitched on. 😊
@Sussamb – That could maybe work for me. 35 L for day walks and the 45 L for a one night camp. I’m assuming 10 L would give enough space to cram a tent, bag and mat inside? Certainly one for me to short list.
@Percy – I’ve got a small pack I used for gym (not sure of its size though) unfortunately it’s nowhere near big enough to work for me and my dog. I meant to say I’ll mostly be using public transport, so I’ll need to carry towels etc for the dog as well.
As this pack wouldn’t be for long treks (I’ll build up to them) I’m not too fussed if I have a little extra room. When I go for a pack to use for WHW and 2 or 3 nighters etc I’ll defo not be wanting extra space, I’ll be wanting to keep the weight and pack size down. By then I should have a better idea of what kit I actually need and what size pack will take it.
@ninthace - Yeah, I’m thinking collapsible bowl for water or one of those doggie water bottles with the built in bowl. He can eat his kibble from my hand! Lol The Kestrel was one of the packs I had looked at before deciding to get advice.
@Dread - Yep, I made a list of what I reckoned I would need (clothes, food, maps, flask etc and water for both (reckon that’ll be the largest/heaviest item I’ll be carrying); probably take up more space than I realise. I’ll be walking mostly in SW Scotland so even in a heatwave I’ll need to carry waterproofs, arctic expedition spec fleece etc! lol
@Mel – Yep, everyone’s different. I am 6ft + so 35L should be ok.
Osprey and Lowe seem to be a favoured pack (usually an indication of quality) so I’ll have a closer look at them, Deuter and Mountain Warehouse and then draw up a wee shortlist to decide what’s best. Thanks again. 😊