Mikul
Senior Travel Member
Posts: 82
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Post by Mikul on Jan 11, 2009 2:31:47 GMT -5
Lucky for me, I live in San Diego, California, about 12 miles from the headquarters of Eagle Creek. Unfortunately, they do not allow the general public to come and visit. I was interested in a 65L Voyage backpack, but it looks like it has been discontinued. They have now released Thrive 65L, now priced $15 US more at $200. However, it now weighs an extra pound and has an extra 100 cubic inches. Any opinions about this bag? Includes: Zip-away Suspension Central lock point allows one lock to secure all zippers Detachable rain cover included Side note: It is a little weird that they only make a men's 65L and only a women's 70L. www.eaglecreek.com/bags_luggage/adventure_travel_packs/Thrive-65L-10066/ |
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Post by Eagle on Jan 11, 2009 16:36:31 GMT -5
Mikul,
I'm probably not the best person to provide an unbiased report on Backpacks, as I'm a big Eagle Creek fan. My main Backpack for travel is a 2003-vintage Continental Journey, and it's been fantastic so far.
It's unfortunate that EC doesn't have a "factory outlet store", but if you have any questions I've always found them to be very responsive to E-mail requests. Given that the headquarters is in that area, I'm sure there will be LOTS of stocking dealers close by.
Before commenting on the Backpack you provided in the link, I wanted to mention that the most important point in selecting a Backpack is to ensure that you're properly fitted for torso length. Any competent sales person should be able to measure this. I noticed on the EC web page that the "Micro Adjust" system allows for torso length adjustment, but it didn't specify what range this covers (unless I missed that part)?
I really like the concept of main Pack (which will probably have to be checked) and a Daypack (which is great for carry-on). The EC features of a stowable harness, panel load and a detachable Daypack are awesome. The Thrive Pack also has single-point locking, which is a great feature! In reviewing the spec's, it appears that they're now using lighter weight materials, so not sure if they are going to be as durable as the 1000D Cordura Nylon that was used in older Packs (probably to reduce costs and maximize profits)?
The other big question is size. Will the Thrive be large enough to hold your travel kit? If you're used to packing on the "light" side, it should be fine. It's a bit puzzling on why the women's model is slightly larger? If you can find a local shop, get them to fit you for torso length and then hopefully try it out fully loaded for a few hours (they may allow that if you leave a credit card imprint?).
The bottom line - if I was in the market for a new Pack, I'd be seriously considering the Thrive!
Good luck with your decision!
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Mikul
Senior Travel Member
Posts: 82
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Post by Mikul on Jan 11, 2009 17:53:40 GMT -5
You would think that there would be a lot of Eagle Creek dealers near by, but there aren't. I did go to two stores earlier today, but neither had the 65L Voyage or the new Thrive models. I did try on the 70L Maiden Voyage, which is what the male salesperson used in Europe and highly recommended. It is considered a women's bag, but it still fit well.
I did find a 90L Voyage on REI's website for only $89, but it is way too big.
I might just have to wait a month or so until the local stores start carrying the new models.
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Post by Eagle on Jan 11, 2009 19:26:41 GMT -5
Mikul,
If I were in the same circumstances, I'd send an E-mail to Eagle Creek and ask them if the new Thrive model is available at this time, and which dealers in your area have received shipments. Also, give them a brief summary of what you're looking for and the type of travel you'll be doing as they may have a recommendation for a specific model.
Cheers!
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Mikul
Senior Travel Member
Posts: 82
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Post by Mikul on Jan 14, 2009 2:03:10 GMT -5
Eagle Creek recommended a store in downtown San Diego that carries their entire line. I saw the Thrive 65L, but found it to be rather small. Maybe that is a good thing? They also had the 75L women's Thrive, but I know that it would have been too big. I ended up purchasing the 70L Eagle Creek Maiden Voyage. It is considered a women’s bag, but I find it to fit just fine.
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Post by mslibrarian on Jan 14, 2009 12:11:55 GMT -5
65L is a big backpack. You will have to carry this around don't forget! And find places to store it, lift it overyour head, etc.
When I bought my pack I got a 60L and I thought it was TINY. I couldn't have managed a bigger pack.
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