Thanks for all the information. You mentioned that you still wanted to get the TLS Mother Lode; is there a reason you would get it in place of the Farpoint? I had ruled it out early on because while it looked good as luggage, it didn't look as well equipped as a backpack. i.e. less padding in the straps, no padding in the waist belt, etc. But I happen to have an opportunity to get it this weekend for half of what the farpoint 40 cost, plus get 12 times the normal bonus miles thanks to a weekend special on my united explorer card with ebags. Thoughts?