I have a 'travel pack' - also called a 'conversion pack'. It doesn't
have a cover, but rather the straps tuck into pockets so you can carry
it with a handle like a suitcase.

OK Dan.... that is what Im trying to decide... i.e.
whether to get a "conversion" pack like you have.... or
a real backpack and just carry a bag/cover to put it in
when checking it in to fly.

Right now Im leaning towards a conversion pack. Now I
just have to decide what brand and model I suppose.
Kind of hard to do as I live in a very rural area and
cant go look at any of this stuff in person very easy

Im leaning towards the Tough Traveler Tri Zip..... or
maybe the Patagonia MLC.

Does anyone know anything abt either of these packs?