Pack Question

[Jordo]

Iv been looking at packs and the EC new World Journey looks like a nice pack.Its 4800CU and is of nice design.But i have some conserns.

1. I hear that Pannel Loading packs cause stress on the Zippers that hold them togethor, and some times they just burst open throwing your clothes everywhere, and Top loading is the best kind?in your opinion what is your favorite and why?

2. The pack listed above is a nice one but my trip is going to be 2-3 months dependin on how much cash I can get togethor,Is it going to be too big of a pack for the items im gonig to be taking along or should I size down a bit?

3rd.A bag of this size is going to have to be checked correct? If so friend told me, that i should use my small locks to lock it up, but my parents tell me that if they see locks on check bags they will cut them off to inspect it.

4th if my pack is small enuf to get carry-on will they make me unpack it all to go through everything to make sure there isnt a bomb in it or something, Iv heard alot of horror stories from all over!

Thanks guys, let me know what you know that i dont know, ya know? haha Thanks

[Kim]

I personally prefer panel loading. I had a top loader once and I can't stand them. You have to rummage through everything to find something.

Maybe with a super cheap pack that zipper exploding might happen (although I've never heard of it) but the Eagle Creek bags are exceptionally well made. My husband to be took an Eagle Creek to Europe for our 7 month trip and it barely showed signs of wear. Plus, they have a lifetime warrenty.

Your best bet now a days for checking it is to either use the shrink wrap if you airport does that (shrink wraps your entire bag) or use those disposable locks or electrical ties. This secures things but lets them cut them off if they want and also alerts you to the fact that they've been removed.

As far as checking through your carry on, they can and most likely will go through it so if your main bag is your carry on, yeah, this will probably happen. I'd just check it, but keep your valuables and important things on you.

[Eagle]

A few comments on your questions......
1.) Yes, one of the "weaknesses" of panel loading packs is the fact that zippers can fail. However, as Kim mentioned EC packs use top quality zippers (YKK heavy duty, I believe), so failures are rare. In some cases, the zippers are capable of self-repairing. The key here is to make sure that the pack isn't stuffed to the point where it "explodes". With 4800 cu. in. you should have lots of room and this won't be a problem!
2.) You will have to decide which size of pack is best suited for your travel style and the kit you want to bring with you. A lot of experienced travellers seem to get by with a fairly small pack. You might want to collect everything you plan on taking, pack it in your backpack and do some touring near your home for several hours. This will give you a good idea whether you need to lighten your pack. The bottom line is, once you've departed you will have to carry it so pack carefully! One interesting comment -- Rick Steves often says that you "pack the same for three months as for three weeks" (or something to that effect).
3.) Yes, I think it's almost certain that a pack of that size will have to be carried as "checked" luggage. With regards to locking the bags, there is a NEW OPTION now. Look for TRAVEL SENTRY locks, either combination or with keys -- they have a small red diamond on the front. These locks can be opened by airport security using special tools, and then re-locked. If they open a bag to check it, they are supposed to leave a card inside to state that the bag was inspected. If you have trouble finding these in your area, you can order them from www.magellans.com. Magellan's offers a warranty on these -- if they are mistakenly cut-off, they will be replaced at NO CHARGE (including shipping)! Of course, you could use cable ties or disposable clips if you wish.
4.) If you are carrying a Daypack as "carry on" they will likely run it through the Scanner, and may hand inspect also. I suspect this would depend on what they see on the scanner, and the preferences of the Inspector(s) that you encounter.
One other note -- I also prefer a panel loading pack (EC Continental Journey), but there are some good top loaders out there also, such as the Gregory Whitney. They have side panels to allow access to the bottom contents without pulling everything out. For my travel needs the EC CJ pack works well.
The New World Journey would undoubtedly be a good choice. However, make sure you are properly measured for torso size and fitted, and if possible try this out fully loaded for a few hours to make sure that this works well for you.
Hope these comments will be of some help. Happy travels!!!

[Jordo]

Thanks for the help you two! I especally like the idea about the plactic electrical ties, Ill be using that idea for sure.

Thanks again -Jordan