ErnieW
Trail Wise!
I want to backpack
Posts: 9,917
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Post by ErnieW on Dec 13, 2023 6:04:02 GMT -8
I stopped using a pack cover. The stuff that needs to be dry like cloths, sleeping bag and electronics have their own waterproof bags.
When it is pouring rain you will be putting a soaked tent or hammock/fly into the pack in the morning. Maybe other wet gear as well.
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rebeccad
Trail Wise!
Writing like a maniac
Posts: 12,683
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Post by rebeccad on Dec 13, 2023 8:18:03 GMT -8
I use a pack cover. My pack goes in my tent, as part of my pillow system, so I prefer to keep it dry as well as the contents. The only change to that might be a switch to a poncho for wet trail hiking, as that also keeps the straps dry and allows for better ventilation when it’s wet but not cold.
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Post by leadbelly on Jan 4, 2024 11:42:54 GMT -8
I use an old but still good Outdoor Research pack cover for the larger packs, and some of my smaller ones arrived with their own fitted raincover, stashed in a small zippered pocket at the bottom. Osprey, Arc'teryx, Black Diamond, Mystery Ranch, North Face, Lowe Alpine, RAB all sell branded covers, and REI and Sea to Summit, among others, sell aftermarket covers. Apparently, social media 'hiking influencers' who don't like rain covers haven't had much influence on this.
As others have said, whether you use a rain cover or not, protect certain things inside a pack in a roll-top silnylon waterproof bag, whether it's a down sleeping bag, electronics, a journal, etc. If you're crossing a stream and slip on wet rocks, your pack is probably taking a bath, and a rain cover won't help.
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Post by oldbill on Jan 7, 2024 10:19:21 GMT -8
I had a pack cover as a gift, which I'll use on occasion. I've had good luck using a trash bag with slits in it for the straps. Much lighter. The problem with using trash bags on the inside only is that most packs will absorb a lot of water. I'd rather not carry the extra weight and don't mind if I look "trashy".
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