Good hiking backpack

[KirkGrovesRV8]

Do we have any avid hikers/backpackers out there in VAF land?
My wife and I decided we want to get out and hit some trails this year, any recommendations for packs??
The RV tie in is...... of course packs that will fit in the 8 well;-)

[Paul K]

Yup, hardcore! Been all over the country and just recently been thinking about using the Cardinal to get to some new places. RV won't be ready for another couple of years but would be really interested in some good destinations via aircraft.

We are located in Michigan and have backpacked just about every decent trail within 300 miles. I am really looking forward to the opportunities flying will present. Love to get others involved and share their favorites.

[the_other_dougreeves]

Well, backpacks are like airplanes. How big do you need it and how much do you want to spend?

Serioously, though I assume that you want a big day pack that will also do light overnights? My favorite old-school pack in that category is the Mountainsmith Bugaboo, about 2200 cu in, narrow vertical style, also great for skiing. If you can pick up one used, I recommend it. I still have mine that I purchased in 1991, will never sell it. Unfortunately, Mountainsmith was never the same after Patrick Smith left the company about 10 years ago, and the new packs aren't the same.

In terms of new packs, I like the Gregory Z35. It's available in three sizes, 2000 to 2300 cu in. Great suspension, nice vented panel to keep the pack away from your back for cooling. Lifetime warranty.

The best thing is, of course, to try it on with some weight in it and buy what fits you. I highly suggest you purchase from a retail store that allows you to try on the pack and return it if you don't like it. REI does this, will also do mail order, and you can become a member / owner and get about 8% of your purchases back at the end of the year. I've seen people return items to REI after 3-4 months, no problem.

I would not suggest any of the camelbak style packs for anything more then short hiking - they lack any sort of suspension and aren't comfortable carrying more than about 10 lb. You're better off adding a water bladder (any brand) to a good pack.

TODR

[sneedrv-6]

osprey have been great for me...

[bullojm1]

Kirk,

I have a couple Osprey and REI brand backpacks. For the money, the REI brand can't be beat. I don't think there isn't an REI by you, but if you fly down to DMW, I would gladly pick ya (and your wife) up and drive you down to the Towson, MD REI -- its about 20 miles from DMW.

[N941WR]

Gregory for me. I have four different packs, depending on what I'm doing & how long I'll be gone.

Check out www.campmor.com for some good prices.

It is best you find a good camping store (Stay away from the big chains) and have them fit you and your wife. They do make packs for women, get your wife one. It made all the difference in the world for her.

My first Gregory pack fit so well that I used to hike shirtless and never got a blister.

BTW, good equipment, like tools can cost some good money.

[KirkGrovesRV8]

Thanks Guys! I appreciate the offer Mike unfortunately the 8 is apart with the cylinders heading to ECI
But Thanks for the info guys !

[JoeLofton]

Ultralight Adventure Equipment makes high-quality, lightweight internal frame backpacks. Choose a model based on how much weight you plan to carry. Big mesh outside pockets are good for wet gear. The hipbelt pockets keep items like your camera handy. When the pack gets funky just take out the internal stays and toss it in the washing machine.

I took one up the AT for 5-1/2 months and it came through with with minimal wear and tear.

The web site link: http://www.ula-equipment.com/

...Joe

[srv]

I'd say it depends on the length of your hiking. If you're looking for something that is a great daypack with room to go 1-2 days, consider the Deuter brand:

http://www.deuterusa.com/products/

Well built, very ergonomic, strong belts, hydration-integrated (or integrateable), aircomfort feature suspends the frame off of your back so it's ventilated - no more sweaty back. Sizes from 600 cu. inches to mountaineering sizes. The model I have can be used for day hiking, 1-2 day treks, skiing, mountain biking, even as my only airline carry on for a weekend trip. It doesn't have room for a tent, but I can strap one and pad to it easily as an option.

If you buy a 3K cu. inch pack, you'll also buy a lot more (heavy) stuff to fill it up.

Also, check out the Eagle Creek compression sacs. Fit more into less space.

http://www.eaglecreek.com/accessories/compression_bags/

[N941WR]

Buy the packs that fit you best!!! Don't just buy based on brand name. There is nothing worse than having a pack that doesn't fit well, moves around a lot, and causes "hot spots".