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Post by freshsprout on Mar 14, 2007 0:49:54 GMT -5
 Hi, my name is Irene.. I'm a first time backpacker and will be heading out to Europe (London, Paris, Germany) for the first time this May. Gosh, that makes me sound like an alcoholic doesn't it.. Anyway, I have a dilemma and need some feedback. I'll be traveling for 2.5 weeks and have already begun to test out my bag with my supplies at home. Unfortunately I'm starting to realize that my current bag - I have a Kelty Redwing (2500 cu.in) - is too small to hold all of my gear. I've checked out the Extended bag version - the Kelty Coyote (4500 cu.in) which is great, holds everything and leftover space for souvenirs. The problem is I'm actually a short-statured person at 47" and the Coyote is like 36"! (more than 2/3 my height) Is this a major problem if I'm going to be walking around on cobblestones, running to catch trains or avert pick pockets? I don't want a huge bag to weigh me down, but if you've traveled a lot and KNOW that a small backpack won't do it - please tell me. Also, do we really have to use the daypack on the bag? What is it for exactly? I would rather have a shoulder bag slung over my body but maybe someone needs to clue me in. Thanks, any input is really appreciated! Danke!
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Post by me on Mar 14, 2007 1:26:19 GMT -5
a big pack on the back of "a short-statured person" could be a problem. but having a pack with a good waist belt which supports the weight is important if you plan to carry it much distance/time at all.
you might should plan not to take much gear, for a 2½ week trip, you don't need that much. just plan to wash socks & undies frequently. or, were you planning to take a set of evening wear?
where in Germany are you planning to go? one place? several places? [you list two cities & a country. that's confusing]
a daypack is used to cart things with you as you explore: guidebook, map, umbrella, jacket/sweater, lunch, whatever you might need. it isn't mandatory to have a detachable one on your main pack, that just keeps you from needing space inside the main pack for the daypack. [it also provides some extra carrying space]
btw, how does your first sentence "makes me sound like an alcoholic doesn't it.."
viel Glück/Spaß mit den Planung!
- d
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Post by freshsprout on Mar 14, 2007 2:14:56 GMT -5
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Post by me on Mar 14, 2007 13:37:51 GMT -5
ok, i went back & reread. i think i get it now. the intro at AA meetings: "Hi, my name is ...... and i'm an alcoholic." [i'm slow sometimes]
also, am i reading correctly that you are 3'11"? i hadn't visualized 47 inches.
you should talk to your physician about any special needs you might have in wearing a backpack. there might be medical issues involved. especially if lordosis or scoliosis are present.
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Post by Eagle on Mar 14, 2007 19:47:46 GMT -5
Irene, Welcome!!! I have a few comments to add to David's tips regarding your Backpack questions.
I had a look at both the Backpacks you listed, and my initial impression was that the first one (your present pack) is too small, while the other model was FAR too large (especially considering your height). Even for a trip of 2-3 weeks, a 41 L. pack is best suited for the "minimalist" traveller, rather than the travel style of most of the group here.
The MOST important criteria in choosing a Backpack is to be properly fitted according to one's torso length (overall height is a less important factor than torso length). Most of the weight should rest on the hips rather than the shoulder straps. The basic method to determine torso length is to measure from vertebra C7 to the top of the hips (the Gregory packs website has a good description of this).
The question of a detachable Daypack is pretty much a matter of personal preference. My main pack usually has to travel as "checked luggage", so I find the Daypack very useful for carry-on, to pack along a few "essentials" for the long flight. Some pack / daypack combinations provide for a "front-carry" configuration in order to provide better security and / or better weight distribution (I like that feature).
One other feature to consider in a Backpack is a "stowable" harness system, whereby the straps can be stowed behind a zippered panel during air travel. This prevents the straps from being destroyed by airport baggage handling equipment. There's a post from a baggage handler somewhere on the Boards here warning about that.
As you've probably noticed, Eagle Creek packs are one of the big favourites here. You might have a look at their website to see if any of the models in their line appeals to you.
I'm not sure what to suggest regarding use of a shoulder bag? I normally prefer either a Daypack or my venerable Tilley Vest. It's certainly important to consider which method will work best in an environment of petty thieves and pickpockets. I'll have a bit of a look around on the net after dinner and see if I can offer any other suggestions.
One final point regarding theft protection - were you planning on using a Money Belt??? IMHO that's one of the MOST important safeguards to offer some protection against theft.
Cheers!!!
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Post by freshsprout on Mar 14, 2007 23:43:48 GMT -5
Thank you for the welcome. Dang, yeah I got my work cut out for me now. I think I need to go back to REI and see if I can get credit back for my bag. They have a wide variety including Gregory and Eagle Creek.. hopefully something will work out. I'll let you guys know. Thanks!
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Hi, my name is Irene.. I'm a first time backpacker and will be heading out to Europe (London, Paris, Germany) for the first time this May. Gosh, that makes me sound like an alcoholic doesn't it..
I wish I could have 2 months to do everything.