For that price, I'd buy the LTD. The Brigade and Ranger use the same harness, the difference is the bladder.
Add up the stuff you might add to the Brigade that the LTD already has - $30 Lumbar Pad, $40 rear weight pockets, extra d-rings and you're well over the $45 difference.
You also can't get the zipper attachment option with the Brigade since it's a different wing which doesn't have the flaps where they're sewn on.
Another thing you can't buy unless you change the wing is that the Ranger/LTD has an extra bottom pull dump.
I'm also pretty certain you can't use doubles with the Brigade, due to the 35# lift. With my LTD all I would need to add is the Zeagle mounting kit.
I have the 65lb. bladder so mine doesn't pack except in checked luggage but my buddy has a 44' bladder on his Ranger and he can't carry it on either. So I don't see a huge advantage in the 35lb. bladder personally. If you're looking for something to travel with, I have stuffed a Stiletto into an airline approved roller bag. With room left over for regs and a few clothes.