Before you buy, try.
But, as hobjob infers, compacts arent always best, even though smaller etc
Just consider saving your money and get a decent pair of good sized ones, it might just be a saving in the long run and they arent as heavy as they used to be. Keep them round your neck, just take a plastic bag for heavy rain protection!
As for make - I have had a few over the years, but, certainly for birding, the best ratio of quality and value(under£150) for me are Bushnell Natureviews 8 x 42 - they work everywhere really well and are close focus.
Hope this helps
Ken