nickAnd

Some nice looking packs there, how's the construction?

It looks good in the specs and the glamor shots, but I don't have any direct experience. I heard about them through Carryology coverage. They seem to be relatively new but are off to an impressive start. The apparel looks pretty good, too.

I'm mainly looking at the 25–30L day packs for lightweight travel. It's hard to find something clean and urban that still offers conveniences like a water bottle pocket. I've looked at nearly everything.

any suggestions on a ~25L backpack for travelling/backpacking? I bought one today but realized I want one with more "structure" rather than one that ends up like an empty sack if it's not full. reason being I'm worried about my camera getting tossed and slammed around if the bag is too billowy.

also other requirements would be sternum and hip strap as well as side water bottle holders

Take a look at Alchemy Equipment. Their 25L daypack doesn't have a hip belt, but has "a protective EVA exoskeleton" to "provide additional protection.

If you bump up to their 30L bags (rolltop, zip, or top loading versions), they add a hip belt.

Overall, aesthetics are great and prices are in NZ dollars.

http://www.alchemy-equipment.com/collections/luggage.html