reuben
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Gonna need more Camels at the next refugio...
Posts: 11,164
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Post by reuben on Feb 10, 2019 17:12:10 GMT -8
I got me some big ass hip belt pockets and pack them with all that diddly stuff. It's great to have all that at my fingertips without even having to take the pack off. OK, I get that. But then where do you put your big ass knife? Lash it down with the side compression straps?
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BigLoad
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Pancakes!
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Post by BigLoad on Feb 10, 2019 17:31:53 GMT -8
What do y'all do about accessing small items like those which might be desirable rather quickly, and for which you (I) don't necessarily want to open the main pack? I got me some big ass hip belt pockets and pack them with all that diddly stuff. It's great to have all that at my fingertips without even having to take the pack off.
I used to carry a UL fanny pack (Equinox Bandicoot) over the front of my hip belt. It worked pretty well, but my hip belt pockets are more convenient and less obtrusive.
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rebeccad
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Writing like a maniac
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Post by rebeccad on Feb 10, 2019 18:07:23 GMT -8
Capacity is advertised as 65L, which is probably a bit of a stretch. Capacity is listed as 68L. I'm sorely tempted to get one, but I like a top pouch for things like headlamp, pack cover, orange water shoes, big ass knife, and other essentials. What do y'all do about accessing small items like those which might be desirable rather quickly, and for which you (I) don't necessarily want to open the main pack? I make good use of the hip belt pockets. But I also carry a small butt pack (around front) as a camera bag, and that gives me space for my whistle and pocket knife, some snacks, spare camera batteries, etc. I stopped worrying so much about the headlamp this summer, as we had daylight until hours after reaching camp—ditto here in NZ (well, it’s summer again). Basically, we never need headlamps until long after we reach camp. Water/camp shoes go on the outside anyway, though I’ll put mine inside when the food is mostly gone, just because I love having everything inside. I worried about my journal and kindle (someplace safe for them), then discovered that the internal water bag pouch was perfect for them (I keep my water bag in a side pocket). There’s another small zippered pocket inside that holds my FAK, repair kit, etc., which keeps that from getting lost in the mess inside. If I really think it’s going to rain, my rain jacket gets strapped under the top strap, but mostly I just don’t need that much crap while on the trail, and once in camp, everything comes out of the bag anyway.
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Deleted
Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Feb 10, 2019 19:35:20 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use? I have two. Deuter ActLite 65+10 which is has been my go-to pack for all seasons for several years.
Purchased the 75 liter version when it was on sale. haven't used it yet but will eventually.
Why? Which features does your pack have? 65+10 - Simple construction, not ultralight but light enough. Sleeping bag compartment - I use for both my inflatable pad (folded flat) and my sleeping bag. Also jam down outerwear in there in colder temps so it is easy to access. The divider has a zipper so I can turn it into one big single compartment if needed. Floating lid that houses first aid kit, gloves; toiletries, whatever small grabbable stuff I need to get at quickly. Stretchy 'water bottle" pockets on the side, that are big enough to stick my Scarp 1 into on one side and a small tripod on the other. Stretchy pocket on the back for rain gear. 75+10 has a ton of room for winter gear if I needed it. Also has some features that I wish the 65+10 had - removable lid that can be a fanny pack, two belt pockets instead of one.
Two additional exterior lash straps for a Thermarest SOL pad (I use two pads on the winter) For both packs, they are nicely compressible for carrying smaller amounts of gear. And both are quite comfortable. Been very happy with it.
How much was your pack?Don't remember
Is cost a factor in your choice?Yes it was
What should someone look for in a good pack? Fit and function. Solid construction. Obviously the best choice for your hiking style. I had a Granite Gear Blaze 60 Liter that I really liked, light weight, and one big compartment. I used it for couple of years and was just not happy with having only one compartment, and not having a lid. So I went back to the Deuter even though it was about 1-1/2 lb more in weight. I tried a Gregory Baltoro at one time. Really really comfortable and very well made. ton of pockets but try as I might it just did not fit my packing style. for one thing I just could not find a comfortable place for my tent (Scarp1), so I returned it. Also looked at an Osprey, Another great pack but returned it for the same reason. Point is - it needs to fit your hiking style, and fit you really well. the Deuter is very easy to adjust and I really like that about it.
What should someone avoid? Improper fit. Get your pack fitted when you finally select one. Don't be swayed by the latest trend. Shop around, ask around, test some if you can, and take the plunge.
How did you choose what size was best for you? As a solo hiker I want to be well prepared, so I do tend to carry a bit more than others. I also like to be comfortable in camp. Add in some serious photo gear and I need space. Yes I could travel lighter, and did for a while... the 75+10 is really overkill I admit. But it swallows up all my winter stuff with room to spare, and I like that.
Where did you buy your pack? Can't remember where I got the 65+10, but I got the 75+10 at Sierra Trading Post. It was a close out at the time.
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Post by hikerjer on Feb 10, 2019 20:04:16 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use?
Dana Designs Terraplane for the winter and on really long trips. Generally, an Osprey Aehter 70 for most trips of less than 10 days. I also have a 30+ year Kelty Super Tioga which I hardly ever use but I'd never part with it. Great pack for it's time. It's kind of fun to take it out once in a while just to see people's responses.
Why? Which features does your pack have?
The basics. Detachable top pack pouch. Sleeping bag compartment. I wish they had pockets on the outside of the hip pad belt but I bought them before those features were common.
How much was your pack?
$235, I think for the Osprey. Can't really remember on the Dana Designs although it was on a closeout sale. No ide how much the Ketly ws. That was far too long ago.
Is cost a factor in your choice?
To a point. I always buy on sale.
What should someone look for in a good pack?
Fit and comfort. If you can only afford one pack, I'd suggest you go with one a little bigger than think you may need in case you get into a situation where you need to carry more that you anticipated - winter, carrying other peoples's gear,etc. It happens.
What should someone avoid?
Lots of gimmicks. Keep it simple. Excess weight, poor fit. Personally, I don't like bright colors.
How did you choose what size was best for you?
Tried it on in the store fully loaded and walked around outside for half an hour with it. I also made sure I could return it within a reasonable amount of time if I wasn't happy with it and it hadn't been abused or damaged.
Where did you buy your pack?
Dana Designs at a local outdoor shop
Osprey at REI in Bozeman
Kelty at a local outdoor shop
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zeke
Trail Wise!
Peekaboo slot 2023
Posts: 9,886
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Post by zeke on Feb 10, 2019 22:43:01 GMT -8
reuben. I put some things in a ziplock and in the big mesh pocket on the back. My pack cover stashes in that same pocket I don’t carry water shoes and the BAK is strapped to my leg. Headlamp is stored inside my cook pot.
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Feb 11, 2019 11:54:11 GMT -8
My Gregory is a comfortable fit for overnights with any of my canisters (Sierra NP) and for dayhikes I’ve a Mystery Ranch that reliably carries my day and camera gear.
For shorter day hikes the last few years I’ve actuslly drifted toward a bike messenger bag with its superior ease of access. Timbuk2 has a great selection.
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davesenesac
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Our precious life is short within eternity, don't waste it!
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Post by davesenesac on Feb 13, 2019 8:07:40 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use? 2012 Osprey Aether 70 (80 oz) also own day packs Osprey Talon 22 (29 oz) and Osprey Skarab 32 (31 oz) for photography gear, one of which I bunji to back of Aether total 92 liters (109 oz) or 102 liters (111 oz)
Why? Which features does your pack have? many straps, loops, attachment, and adjustment features big 81 oz tripod/head, water bottle also external
How much was your pack? don't recall
Is cost a factor in your choice? nope
What should someone look for in a good pack? fit gear and more, robust construction especially with increasing weight use
What should someone avoid? inadequate capacity for gear, weak construction
How did you choose what size was best for you? carry much gear including items on outside
Where did you buy your pack? don't recall but likely through amazon
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Westy
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Diagnosed w/Post-Trail Transition Syndrome
Posts: 1,960
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Post by Westy on Feb 13, 2019 10:24:58 GMT -8
OK, have bad case of cabin fever waiting for my flight to Tucson, on the 28th. The forum is a very diversified group. Survey Says (32 primary backpacks reported)………… Most Popular Brands-Final Four - ULA (6)
- McHale (5)
- Gregory (3)
- Osprey (3)
Most Popular Pack Runner Up Honorable Mention - Deuter ACT 65 (2)
- Osprey Aether (2)
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Post by trinity on Feb 13, 2019 17:26:56 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use?
I have a Six Moon Designs Fusion 50 for fast and light trips in mild weather, a Deuter ACT Lite 75+10 for winter trips and longer expeditions, and a Gregory Z55 for everything in between.
Why? Which features does your pack have?
I bought each for different purposes. The Z55 is a great all around pack, and served my needs for many years. I bought the ACT Lite for a 2 week trip to the Winds, and I now use it for winter trips, especially when I am obliged to carry lots of water. I like the simplicity and small size of the Fusion, which is what I use for 1 or 2 night trips. All three fit quite well, especially the Fusion and the ACT Lite.
How much was your pack?
The only one I recall for sure was the Fusion, which I got on clearance when they redesigned the pack. It was $100.
Is cost a factor in your choice?
Not really. They were all moderately priced packs.
What should someone look for in a good pack?
The right fit, and the right capacity for your needs.
What should someone avoid?
Bad fit.
How did you choose what size was best for you?
Bought packs to fit my gear.
Where did you buy your pack?
I think the ACT Lite came from REI. The Fusion was direct from SMD. Don't recall the Z55.
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Post by Bouncing Goat on Feb 21, 2019 8:21:58 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use?
Osprey Ariel 65L Womens
Why? Which features does your pack have?
Recently I've been doing a lot of winter backpacking. This back gives me enough room for my bigger sleeping bag, winter tent, as well as all my other gear to fit on the inside of the pack. I like Ospery, because for whatever reason it fits my body form the best/most comfortably. I have a small torso and long legs, which is a problem with Deuter bags or else I would have sprung for them. I think the brand makes good reliable packs and I really like their hip belts. The bag is a top/side/bottom loading bag, however I always forget about the side loading, so I never use it. It has a place for a platypus, which is how I like to keep hydrated, and a removable "brain"(even though most of the time I prefer it on, as its easier for organization). Another interesting quality is that the side pockets have 2 access holes on each side, making it easier to reach my Nalgene without help. I think it also technically has a built in pack cover, but I've never used it as I pack most things in water proof bags on the inside, so it doesn't really matter if my pack gets wet to me.
I also have a second smaller Osprey 45L bag, but I haven't used it much, as I've found it a little small. Still love the fit though.
How much was your pack?
I bought it on sale in the REI Garage for somewhere between $250-300. Don't remember exactly.
Is cost a factor in your choice?
Yes. Good reliable backpacks can get really expensive. I was watching multiple sites for a larger women's pack to go on sale. I got a good price for the bag, but had to compromise the color. Sound trivial, but this pack is BRIGHT RED and although its great for any emergencies/spotting, it's very in your face visually.
What should someone look for in a good pack?
Make sure first and foremost that it feels good on you....with weight. This pack will be your life source on the trail, make sure you REALLY like it. Second, it helps if you know how you like to organize your gear when hiking. If you know you like to get your fuel out first, make sure the pack can accommodate that. I like to keep my bowl and head lamp, as well as my hat always accessible, so I will never invest in a pack without a brain. If you know you like to use a hydration system, make sure you buy a pack that not only is built for one, but will work well with the system you have. There's nothing worse than buying a bag and realizing your platypus won't fit it it's pocket, once it's filled with water. Third, buy a bag that not only will be good for the current trip you're planning but also keep in mind other trips you may want to take in the future. Buying a multi-purpose bag that's slightly more expensive is better (in my book) than having to buy two bags later.
What should someone avoid? Don't buy the first bag you see. Shop around, look for sales. No need to pay full price if you don't have to. Also, don't buy a backpack you haven't physically touched/tried on.
How did you choose what size was best for you?
I did some research on general sizing, and then went to an outdoor store and had someone fit me. I'm 5'7" but ended up with a xs/s because of my short torso
Where did you buy your pack? REI OUTLET/GARAGE
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desert dweller
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Power to the Peaceful...Hate does not create.
Posts: 6,291
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Post by desert dweller on Feb 21, 2019 9:19:31 GMT -8
for my flight to Tucson, on the 28th. Send me a message if you want to get together for a beer. It'd have to be after 5pm if it's on a weekday.
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panatomicx
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Less noise and more green
Posts: 496
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Post by panatomicx on Feb 21, 2019 16:55:08 GMT -8
A McHale LBP 36. Custom fit, and It's a real comfortable carry. Easily convertible to different modes (Daypack, Winter Pack, Winter Daypack, Summer Backpack with a cannister) with the bayonet stays. Large hipbelt pockets. Easily accessible water bottle pockets. Full Dyneema, bulletproof construction. Expensive, but for me, a good value. Made by Dan McHale in Seattle.
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Hungry Jack
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Living and dying in 3/4 time...
Posts: 3,809
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Post by Hungry Jack on Mar 3, 2019 19:03:05 GMT -8
Which backpacks do you use?
small: Gregory Adze (40L) medium: Lafuma - model unknown (50 + 10) large: TNF Crestone (60 + 15)
Why? Which features does your pack have?
The Adze is a narrow profile climber's pack that is very simple, but good enough to 2 nights in fair weather. It forces me to pack light when I use it.
The Lafuma has a bunch of really nice features that make it a great all-around pack and good for trips up to 4-5 days.
The TNF Crestone is my week-long expedition pack. I have only used it a few times, including an 80-mile traverse of Isle Royale.
How much was your pack?
The Adze was a score on Overstock.com (I think) for like $50.
I scored the Lafuma for $50 in a sporting goods store in the Chicago suburbs. I was actually at a bike shop next door, and I wandered in while my bike was being worked on. The pack was on clearance. It was a great find.
I probably got the Crestone on a deep discount, maybe from REI.
Is cost a factor in your choice?
As noted above, I will jump on a steal if I find one that fills a need.
What should someone look for in a good pack?
Fit, above all. Good suspension with shoulder straps that can comfortably bear whatever load you plan to carry. A separate sleeping bag compartment and a hydration sleeve are good features. Deep side pockets to hold Nalgenes are good. Nice to have a top that doubles as a fanny pack. Also nice to have a pack cover built it.
What should someone avoid?
My friend used an Osprey (forget model) 60L pack on our Isle Royale trip. It was not inexpensive. The padding on the shoulder straps was meager and caused a lot of discomfort for him. His load was not absurdly heavy.
How did you choose what size was best for you?
Try it on first. Then load it and try again.
Where did you buy your pack?
Various places
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assen
Trail Ready!
I love nature and nature loves me.
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Post by assen on Apr 20, 2019 1:55:34 GMT -8
Awesome thread!
Here are my responses:
Which backpacks do you use? It depends on where and when I hike. Generally I use Gregory Stout 65.
Why? Which features does your pack have? Excellent internal and external organization, comfortable fit, super durable, easy to customize, perfect ventilation system. How much was your pack? around $110
Is cost a factor in your choice? No.
What should someone look for in a good pack? Good fit,water resistant (if possible integrated rain cover), durablity, suspension system, multiple compartments, buckles.
What should someone avoid? Anything that have many bad reviews.
How did you choose what size was best for you? I measured my torso length, butI also tent to buy packs that are easily adjustable no matter the size of those who wear it.
Where did you buy your pack? Amazon
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