I'm going on a RTW for four months. We're going to be taking in quite a lot of different climates, ie - hot an suny Thai beaches and New Zealand in the deepest darkest winter. What size of backpack would you suggest? Also, what make have people found to be the best. I don't want a massive pack as I'm quite small (5ft 4ins). Any help would be very much appreciated!

have a look at this site...

Jack Wolfskin Packs

Other excellant makes are:

Mac Pac

Karrimor

Eagle Creek

North Face

Happy Trails

Philip

'Just land the damn thing'

Buzz Aldrin to Neil Armstrong, July 1969

Photos of the 'Las Fallas' Festival from Valencia, Spain in March, 2004

Considering your height, I would suggest a pack not larger than 60 liters. Pack with layers of clothing - shirts, fleece and a waterproof. Summer stuff you can buy cheaply in Thailand. If you're a woman, I would buy a pack made especially with women in mind. Arc Teryx is usually highly recommended for its durability and design. Most importantly, go to an outdoor shop with knowledgable staff. Any place worth their salt would be able to recommend a pack according to your size and needs.

Yes,

Go somewhere with a range of packs in different makes and sizes...

Make sure you try it on with some weight in there too, try walking upstairs, downstairs...see how it feels...

Happy Trails

Philip

'Just land the damn thing'

Buzz Aldrin to Neil Armstrong, July 1969

Photos of the 'Las Fallas' Festival from Valencia, Spain in March, 2004

Hi there just to add berghaus ( http://www.berghaus.com) make excellent strong sacs one in particular is the Antaeus which comes in at 65 litres but it has the fully adjustable A-Trek back system which allows you to custom fit the harness to your exact back size. One up from that is the pac i have is the Akamas which is 65+10 litre it is very similar to the Antaeus but doesnt have side pockets (which can be awkward when getting through gaps on crowded buses or trains) and the materials are slighty better (stronger maore dureable)

thats my suggestions and my pack has served me well when camping and doing high altitude climbs.

Need more info ? then e mail me and i can see what i can help with

You might want to check ebay.co.uk too
What will cost you £80 in the shops will cost you £30 on there... brand new too.
Thats where I got mine and it is perfect.
Good luck