Get the Kirkland model. If it has the auto-expand feature it is still from Pathfinder. That was a feature they used in their upper lines. Those are very good cases. Pathfinder is out of business but Costco should still give it's usual warranty on the thing, which is great. The replacement case might not be from Pathfinder but there are good chances that this case will last for years to come.

Forget about what you heard about the auto-expand problems (mostly that the mechanism doesn't stay down). IF that happens, you simply use a safety pin to lock it in place or stick the end of the strap back into the buckle to make it tighter. Problem solved.

That said, an expandable 26 incher offers so much room that a single person should be able to go on a month-long trip with it, unless you bring Scuba gear. A well packed 22 incher should go for two weeks easily.

It all depends on your needs and personal style but in general most people do overpack. If you haven't read the packing tips here, on OBOW and onebag.com, those are good reads.

Till