Back Pack...size matters

[tshayne67]

Hi,

I will be traveling around the UK for three weeks in April, staying at hostels and camping as well. I just purchased a back pack and was wondering if I went a bit over the top with the size. I will be carrying a tent, sleeping bag, thermarest etc. Any suggestions are appreciated. The pack I bought was an Alps Denali 5500
www.rei.com/product/782949?preferredSku=7829490015&cm_mmc=cse_froogle-_-datafeed-_-product-_-7829490015&mr:trackingCode=A03CB1FE-FB85-DE11-B7F3-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA

I'm on a budget so inexpensive was the way to go for this. It had good reviews, I have since packed it up, adjusted it and walked around with it on and it seems to fit quite comfortably. With the tent, sleeping back and sleeping pad I have already taken up half of the bag...thinking I may have to buy a new tent, something smaller.

[Eagle]

tshayne67,

Welcome to the Boards! I have a few comments to begin with.

I'm not familiar with that particular Pack model, however it appears to be a good quality product. I tend to prefer panel-loading packs (with zippers) as it's easier to access contents without digging to the bottom of the pack, and the zippers also provide a modest level of security when they're locked. Some panel-loading Packs also provide a detachable Daypack, which is ideal for carry-on.

Some Packs also provide a "stowable harness" system, where the straps are stored behind a zippered panel during air travel, which prevents airport conveyor systems from ripping the straps off. If packs don't have that feature, it's important to find an alternate way to secure the straps - some airlines will "saran wrap" the packs, a large Glad Bag even Duct Tape may be used, or a foldable Duffle Bag). Those methods may not be required, depending on the the practices at your local airport. Lately the airlines have been placing Packs with exposed straps in large grey plastic bins for the trip on the conveyor system.

The most important criteria in buying a Backpack is proper fitting according to the user's torso length, and it appears that it's working well for you. Most of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders (especially important if you have to carry it for longer periods of time).

I'm not sure that camping is the best option, especially in April as it could be "chilly" in the U.K. at that time of year (especially given the winter they've had this year). That's a lot of extra gear to haul around for the duration of the trip, and without the camping gear you'd be able to get by with a considerably smaller pack, or considerably less bulk and weight in your present pack (which would leave room for souvenirs!). Also, many campsites are located somewhat outside major centres, which will add to your costs and time in getting back and forth to the main sites. Hopefully the others will have a few comments on this as well.

As you plan on staying in Hostels part of the time, it's also important to note that sleeping bags will most likely not be permitted in any Hostel. You'll need to use either your own sleep sack or one provided by the Hostel when staying there. Be sure to pack a compact travel towel for Hostels and also a medium-to-small robust Padlock for the Hostel Lockers (don't use a cheap Luggage Lock as they're not secure enough for that application).

If this is your first trip to Europe, I'd highly recommend pre-reading the Guidebook Europe Through The Back Door during your planning.

You didn't indicate where you're travelling from, but it's important to remember that the U.K. can be expensive (which will depend to some extent on the exchange rates at the time). Which parts of the U.K. are you planning to visit and how are you planning to travel around?

Happy travels!