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Post by chelsealynn on Nov 25, 2006 16:35:59 GMT -5
Hey everyone!
I'm planning my first backpacking trip to Europe and have no idea how big of a bag to buy. I am going to be going for approx. 60-90 days and I am a female so I've heard it is better to get female specific bags so that it is more comfortable.
Does anyone have any idea how large of a bag I would need for 60-90 days in Europe? Thanks!!
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Post by Eagle on Nov 29, 2006 11:59:58 GMT -5
chelseylynn, it's difficult to make a recommendation for a Backpack, as everyone travels a bit differently. I've found that a Pack in the 65 L. range is a good "all purpose" size.
You might get some useful information by reading through some of the other Posts in this section. The most important criteria in buying a Pack is to be properly fitted for your torso length! IMHO some of the other important things to consider are:
- detachable Daypack (great for carry-on during air travel as well as for touring around in cities)
- "stowable" harness system (if the Pack doesn't provide some way to "stow" the straps behind a zippered panel, there's a small risk of having these torn-off by airport baggage handling equipment. In many cases these days, the airlines will "Saran Wrap" backpacks that don't have these feature. It can be a bit of a nuisance to remove this when you arrive at destination, as of course if you have a Swiss Army Knife or whatever, it's INSIDE the pack!).
- Panel load vs. Top load (I prefer a Panel loading Pack with zippers, as it's easier to find things without having to dig to the bottom and also easier to secure or lock these with a small Padlock - if you use this approach, don't forget to use a TSA approved Lock, or it might be cut off if they decide to inspect your Pack).
Many on the Board here seem to like Eagle Creek packs (I use a 2003 vintage Continental Journey), but Osprey, Gregory and Arcteryx also make good packs. Not sure where you're located in B.C., but from what I remember there's an outdoor supply store in Metrotown that has a fairly good selection of Eagle Creek Packs. Of course there's also MEC and other outdoor stores on West Broadway, but not sure which of those carry EC products?
It's a good idea to do a "test run" on a Backpack by loading it up and walking around for an hour or two. You'll soon find out how well it works for you. Most of the weight should rest on your hips. With regard to the point about "female specific bags", I've seen a few posts where females have found that the male version of a particular pack works better for them. Use the gender design of a Pack as a guideline only - the important thing is to choose the model that fits YOU the best.
Finally, remember to PACK LIGHT!
Hope this helps? Good luck!!!
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Post by chelsealynn on Nov 29, 2006 13:32:41 GMT -5
Eagle, Thanks so much for the info, it has definately helped me out. I live on Vancouver Island and there are a few outdoor stores here and then there are a few in Victoria too. I have looked at the Eagle Creek backpacks online and they look so small but then they say they are like 60L. I definately want a pack with a removable day pack. I didnt realize about the stowable harness system. That makes sense so I will definately look for one that has that feature too! Thanks!
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Post by chelsealynn on Nov 29, 2006 13:36:48 GMT -5
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Post by Eagle on Nov 29, 2006 20:28:00 GMT -5
chelseaylynn, that looks like a fantastic Pack! It appears to be about the same size as my "old" CJ Pack, and seems to offer the front carry option too which is a great feature (allows for better weight distribution as well as better security as the Daypack is in view).
It doesn't appear to have the "stowable harness" system, however I suspect this isn't necessary due to the "Duffle" capability shown in photo 6. If the entire Pack is kept inside the Duffle/Rain Cover during air transport, this essentially provides the same function in terms of keeping the harness from being caught on airport conveyor systems.
The spec's also list this feature:
I'm not sure what this is?
Again, make sure you measure your torso length and if possible find a local store where you can try it out (fully loaded). The spec's list the torso range as 15-19". This Pack appears to be an "updated" version of the Continental Journey?
Cheers!!!
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