Hey everyone, I'm planning a thru-hike attempt in about two years (it's kind of a family tradition) but am pretty inexperienced with long hikes -- most of my hikes have been day trips and most of my camping has involved a kayak or a canoe (Louisiana girl). Don't worry, I WILL be spending the next two years doing section hikes, more walking-oriented camping trips, and a 6 week hike in Spain to get more experience beforehand.
Because of this though, I need some help choosing a backpack.
I'll be hiking with my dog so I'll need to carry some extra weight for his sake, but my general impression is that my biggest priority needs to be keeping weight down anywhere I can.
Do y'all have any recommendations for backpacks? Also, instead of just telling me which one, I'd really appreciate some help with the different aspects of it and WHY that backpack -- I want to learn!