Backpack sales? and electrical adapters question

[joschmoo]

Hi,
I just found out that I got into my study abroad program, so I am definitely going to be able to do my backpacking trip now. I have a few questions, though, for you experienced people out there. I have been looking at backpacks, and I think I've narrowed it down to an Eagle Creek and am ready to purchase (I tried one on at a store and everything). I was just wondering if anyone knew if any store would be having any big sales between now and May, so I could maybe save myself a few bucks on my pack (or other supplies too!)?

Also, I've been looking at electrical adapters on RadioShack and everyone has been complaining about how none of the adapters there actually worked for them in Europe. I was wondering if anyone had an electrical adapter and/or power converter to recommend for use in Spain for 2 months for charging my laptop and other small appliances?

Thanks!

[Mikul]

Which backpack are you looking at? It seems to me that Eagle Creek products tend to go on sale only when they are being discountinued.

I was in Spain for one month this past summer and used a "Travel Smart All-in-One Adapter Plug" for about $15 from Fry's Electronics. You can see it Amazon.com. I used it to recharge my laptop, cell phone, and camera batter. I didn't hear about any issues from anyone in my class regarding power adapters not working. Maybe that model is just of bad quality? Make sure all you need is a power adapter and not a adapter and converter.

[Eagle]

joschmoo, It's great that you've chosen an Eagle Creek Backpack, as they're a big favourite with many here (including me). Which model are you considering? Unfortunately, I don't have any information on current sales. You might check some of the online retailers, as they sometimes offer more competitive prices. Check the EC website for a list of retailers.

Regarding "electrical adapters", I assume you're referring to Plug Adapters? I've been using the simple plastic Plug Adapters found at many travel and Luggage shops, and haven't had any problems with these so far. I don't see any point in using complicated multi-format Plug Adapters if I'm only going to be travelling in a limited number of countries. Have a look at www.magellans.com/store/Adaptor_Plugs___Converters?Args= for examples. If you're only going to be travelling in Spain, then the two-pin Euro style is the appropriate model (I'd suggest packing at least two of them, in case one gets lost or misplaced). If you'll be in the U.K. at all, you'll also require the larger model with three rectangular pins.

On the question of Power (Voltage) Converters, you may or may not need one. I'd suggest checking the specifications of EACH DEVICE you'll be travelling with to determine the Input Voltage ratings. If these state 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, the device is designed for "world" operation and will therefore work on the European electrical system so only a Plug Adapter will be needed.

If you do require a Voltage Converter for some of your appliances, it's important to choose the proper method of conversion to suit the appliance. For electronic devices such as Cell Phone or Camera Chargers, a Transformer-style Converter is best. The common models designed for travel usually have a capacity of about 50-watts, which is adequate for electronic devices. For high-wattage appliances such as Hair Dryers, a solid-state Converter is best. These typically have a capacity of 1500-2000 watts, so will operate high wattage appliances for a short period of time. Most of the "travel" models are not designed for continuous-duty operation, so it's not a good idea to use these for an extended time.

Some Voltage Converters have both Transformer and solid-state conversion methods built into the same unit (one of these is shown on the website link that I provided above).

Hope this is some help. Good luck and happy travels!

[joschmoo]

Thanks Eagle, thanks Mikul,

I'm actually looking at the Thrive 65L and the Voyage 65L (whichever one I can find a better deal for as I've tried on both at a local store). I think the size should be sufficient for a little less than 3 weeks of backpacking with a few weekend trips during my study abroad program. I just didn't know if anyone knew of any yearly sales that I might be able to catch to save my wallet some.

Thanks for the advice about the electrical adapters. I was reading some reviews on radioshack, and it seemed that all of their plug adapters got bad reviews citing either not working or not fitting the sockets. I looked at my laptop and it has AC input 100-240V. So I think I might get one of those universal adapters along with a plug adapter for back-up because my cousin in England is sending me a cell phone she doesn't use that I can use in Spain and backpacking.

Thanks again for all the help guys, I can't wait til the summer!

[joschmoo]

I just bought my pack today. I got the Eagle Creek Thrive 65L for $170 from www.e-omc.com with free shipping! If anyone is looking for backpack deals, that's the cheapest I've been able to find that backpack for. Usually (at ebags, magellans, etc) it's $200.

[Eagle]

joschmoo,

Glad to hear that you've now got your Backpack. Be sure to set up the torso adjustments so that most of the weight rests on your hips.

Hope it works well for you.

Happy travels!