I have been happy with this as well for overnights and think it is an awesome system. A new mainframe has been released with higher frame to make load lifters effective. There is also a how to on this site in the DIY section to elevate the load lifters.
Going through this myself and exploring a bunch of options. I would say go with a large capacity pack where you can switch the bag out for a smaller one if it is a pain on day hunts. If you want 2 bags and money is an issue, then I say go expensive on the big pack and cheap on the small.
Not...
Personally, I would never make a sacrifice like that for any couple week experience. Dealing with that debt will just make the next trip years and years away.
Instead, I would take regular trips to the mountains and go camera hunting for sheep or mule dear while saving for the big trip. I would...