Bookbag rec for outdoor field work (ecology surveying) — heavy loads, rough terrain, all-day wear
Hi all! I currently work as an ecology consultant/surveyor, which requires me to be outside all day with minimal to no trips back to my car — sometimes for up to 10 hours at a stretch.
I have to carry food, some gear, portable batteries, and (my heaviest items) water jugs in thick metal containers to keep them cool. I currently use a beat-up bag from Walmart since I regularly go through creeks and barbed wire, and I didn't want to ruin anything I actually cared about.
But as the work has gotten more intense, I've started noticing pretty bad lower back pain, so I think my body is telling me it's time to upgrade. I'm willing to spend more on a good bag, but I'm nervous about buying something nice and immediately tearing holes in it out in the field.
Any recommendations for a durable, supportive pack that can handle rough terrain and heavy loads without wrecking my back (or itself)?