Hi, To begin with I have made some research, here and on-line generally, but thought that I will ask about your opinion. I assume that there is no such thing as a perfect all-around backpack, still maybe you can suggest some solution. For some time I have been thinking about buying medium size hiking backpack, my list includes for example:

Gregory zulu 30 Gregory citro 30 Osprey startos 34

I've learned that I will be going for some time abroad from work by plane, therefore the idea of combining the functions.. Apart of my traditional checked luggage wanted to take a backpack with me so can use it on shorter internal flights and generally as the all-round bagpack for a laptop and regular everyday stuff.

Max size of carry on is most likely 55x40x23 cm, issue is, I'm not sure some of those types would be fitting the limitations, even if underpack it.

Summing up, I mostly would use it for hiking and as a carry on from time to time. I have seen bags like Gregory Border but I'm not sure that type of bag will be fitting for my hiking needs. Especially the poor suspension of the Border( in the hiking categories) The reason why am thinking of ca. 30l backpacks is because l often use it for carrying stuff for me and my wife. Sorry if my description is messy and chaotic. Location - Europe, travel to Asia. I'm ready to underpack it but I'm worried that the frame will still be too long in the bigger models.