View Full Version : Backpack size question
Alright, I have another question, this time concerning backpack sizes. Let me set up my situation; a solo, 100 (+/-) section of the A.T. (Springer to Franklin), late May early June of 09. So here is the question what size backpack should I be searching for to handle all of my equipment? I was thinking about something in the 5600 cu.in. area but didn't know if that was to much, or do you think something in the 4500 cu.in. would be better?
Two Speed
08-07-2008, 09:34
The best option is to purchase your pack last, if possible. That way you can take all your gear to the store and make sure it fits.
'Kay, here's where the wildly different opinions start.
I can make a 2,000 CI pack work for three day trips in mild weather, and rarely use anything over 2,500 CI any more. Of course I strap my tent, a Six Moon Designs Lunar to the bottom of my pack, and my rain gear and pack cover go in external mesh pockets.
Obviously a lot's gonna depend on how you choose to arrange your gear.
workboot
08-07-2008, 09:35
Pack size is an entirely personal opinion but IMO 5600 ci is way to much. If it were me I would be looking in the 3500-4000 range...your results may vary.
The best option is to purchase your pack last, if possible. That way you can take all your gear to the store and make sure it fits.
'Kay, here's where the wildly different opinions start.
I can make a 2,000 CI pack work for three day trips in mild weather, and rarely use anything over 2,500 CI any more. Of course I strap my tent, a Six Moon Designs Lunar to the bottom of my pack, and my rain gear and pack cover go in external mesh pockets.
Obviously a lot's gonna depend on how you choose to arrange your gear.
O.K. see I thought that I should buy it first so that I could get use to it and the weight, you know, take a few smal trips, so on and so forth
Two Speed
08-07-2008, 09:50
Sure. A better option would to borrow or rent a pack for a couple of trips until you figure out what you like.
I hear ya. I have a 2750 cu.in. pack now that I really like but IMHO it don't hold a lot of stuff. I mean good for a couple of days at the most (for me anyway) that's why I thought for 10+ days something 4500-5600 cu.in. would be the ticket.
mister krabs
08-07-2008, 10:39
I hear ya. I have a 2750 cu.in. pack now that I really like but IMHO it don't hold a lot of stuff. I mean good for a couple of days at the most (for me anyway) that's why I thought for 10+ days something 4500-5600 cu.in. would be the ticket.
If you're starting at springer, you'll have resupply points, particularly Neel's gap @ about 30 miles.
Check this article.
http://www.whiteblaze.net/index.php?page=resupplypart1
Purchase gear first, pack last
Purchase gear first, pack last
So when you say gear you mean tent, sleeping bag, stove, clothes, etc. right.
Two Speed
08-07-2008, 14:38
Only those items you plan on putting in the pack or having with you while you hike. ;)
Be advised, too, that equal volume packs are often far from equal. The shape of the pack, layout and type of pockets, and number and type of exterior attachment points have a huge effect on what you can actually carry. Someone advised renting if possible...I'd do that to try out as many different styles/sizes as you can. You'll soon find what you like, dislike, and actually need.
Regards,
Jager
What do you mean by "equal volume packs" I don't quite follow.
Usable space is not the same for different packs with the same RATED volume. Also, some have exterior pockets that expand.
I recently took my summer gear to REI and tried on every pack between 24 & 38 liters. My gear fit better in an Osprey Statos 24 than in the REI Venturi 30. Imagine that. The Venturi 30 pack is 25% larger but carries less. YMMV.
I have learned to carry less on trips as I have gained experience. So I can use a smaller pack now than a few years ago.
Take your gear with you to an outfitter and load & try on the different packs. You will find that some ride much better than others.
Buying gear is the art of compromise. Good luck with your choice.
pyroman53
08-08-2008, 11:54
If you're thinking of buying a pack, pay close attention to its weight, not just volume. You'll see packs that are bullet-proof that weigh 5 or 6 pounds. I wouldn't even look at a pack that's over 4 pounds, (IMHO). My recommendation is to take your gear to a store and figure out the volume you need. Then come back to WB with that info and then ask what packs are recommended for that volume. The easiest pounds to cut from your load are by starting with a light-weight pack.