Backpacks
Type:
§ Traditional backpacks had a heavy steel/aluminum frame on which a series of fabric compartments were attached. The pack usually had a set of shoulder straps and a hip belt. These “external frame” packs were heavy, uncomfortable and lacked adjustment capability. However, they were highly functional as far as the ability to carry a large weight load.
§ Today, packs are made of lightweight, high-tech materials and almost all involve a fixed internal frame/stay. These “internal frame” packs are adjustable, comfortable, and offer a much greater freedom of movement and kinesiology. Load size is much more specific, and packers must pay greater attention to the size and weight of their gear.
§ For anything greater than a dayhike, I would recommend a pack with some sort of frame. It helps distribute the weight evenly, and most importantly, off your lower back and to your shoulders (where the physics of the human body can disperse it to your legs).
§ If you do not have a pack, are considering an upgrade, or are unsure of your existing size/model-please check out this REI tutorial: http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpack.html
Size/Capacity:
§ The size of a backpack usually refers to the capacity (measured in liters)
§ However, some backpacks come in various torso lengths and consideration must be taken in selecting the proper size. Most outdoors shops will measure your torso and offer information about specific sizes/brands. For you Westsiders, the Backpacker Shop is a great source of information about packs (http://www.backpackersshop.com/)…I am currently working with them about sponsoring our group (think discounts).
§ The rule of thumb for capacity is usually this: “the more room you have for shit, the more shit you’ll bring.” That being said, you also must have enough room for the important stuff. There are usually a few general capacity ranges for backpacks:
Þ Dayhike – less than 45 liters
Þ Overnight/short weekend – 45-55 liters
Þ Long weekend – 55-65 liters
Þ Weeklong – 65-70 liters
Þ Expedition – 70 liters and up
§ Personally, I have a 70 liter pack that I use for anything more than 5 days, and a 48 liter pack that I use for anything 2-5 days.
§ Of course, consideration must be taken to the season/weather, group vs. individual camping, willingness to take “luxuries”, etc.
§ The bottom line is this: if you’re just starting out and are looking for an all-purpose pack that can handle anything from a weekend trip to a weeklong adventure, I would opt for a pack in the 65L range (example: http://www.rei.com/product/828429/osprey-atmos-65-pack)
§ But perhaps the best advice I can offer is this: Do NOT buy a pack before trying it on. Fit is such an important part of a good backpack. Make sure it adjusts to fit your body. There is nothing wrong with trying a pack on at a local shop and then buying it cheaper online-that’s competitive pricing.
Brand:
§ All veteran backpackers have their favorite brands for various reasons. Some prefer the fit of a specific brand, others the “bells & whistles.” When it comes to choosing a backpack, price can become the great equalizer. While all hobbies can get expensive…I think backpacks can be much like wine-you don’t have to spend the big bucks to get a great pack. Backpack prices have fallen dramatically with strong competition in the marketplace. There are countless brands out there. Traditional names like Gregory, Mountainsmith, Kelty, Marmot, and The North Face have received competition from newer companies like Osprey, Deuter, Mammut, and Kloppen. This is great for us, because like I said, prices have fallen dramatically. My Osprey pack that I just purchased for $165 would have cost upwards of $300 7 years ago.
§ I trust Backpacker magazine implicitly when it comes to gear reviews. Their annual gear guide is a fantastic guide to compare products. The website has a huge amount of specific gear reviews and product information-all from a very objective, non-biased staff. (http://www.backpacker.com/gear-guide-2013-table-of-contents/articles/17309)
§ Again, please do not hesitate to contact me or any other veteran backpackers in the group with any questions. I’d rather you be over-informed with a good pack than vice versa.