u/IzraelMew

After spending way too much time with my friendly neighborhood AI and doing lots of searching on my own, I feel like I must be missing something. The only bag that fits my criteria (24-32L, padded removable or stowable hipstraps, non-military appearance) is the Aer Travel Pack 4 28??? I don't care about organization pockets, luggage pass through, waterproofing, etc. I just need a bag that will redistribute the weight of my pack to my hips when I have to carry more than my stupidly large laptop. I bought the Tortuga Daily Carry Pro in hopes that it would be comfortable enough, but I fear the only thing that will do that for me is hip straps. I've looked at the cotopaxi allpa (straps are not padded and there are comments about them not redistributing weight), North Face Surge (hip straps also not padded), and so many more. Can you guys give me some other recommendations?

Doing the TMB (11 days) for the first time next week. I saw a post about someone's soggy feet. If you've done the TMB mid-June or are headed that way, what shoes are you wearing. I had planned to wear Altra trail runners with gaiters because of all the posts I've seen on people saying that they are fine to wear, but maybe I should consider my Danner hiking boots? I was really hoping to reduce weight. Thoughts?

*edit: we just got an email from our tour co. suggesting boots or goretex trail runners. I'm still on the fence, but leaning towards runners. I do like the idea of having my shoes dry out instead of having wet boots.

*second edit: thank you to everyone giving input! I think I may pack my boots so I have the option to make a last minute decision. That's probably the indecisive part of me though, because I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with trail runners.