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Eagle Creek Packable Daypack Review
 The full-size daypack stuffs into an ultra-compact pouch. |
Storage-wise, the daypack includes a zippered main compartment and an external front pocket that doubles as the pack-in stuff pocket. In addition, the daypack is comfortable to carry thanks to the breathable mesh shoulder straps. Also outfitted with a key fob, the Packable daypack measures 9.5 by 16.5 by 4.5 inches (W x H x D) when open and weighs 6 ounces.
About Eagle Creek
Eagle Creek designs its product lines to make travel easier and more fun. Not surprisingly, the folks at the Vista, California-based Eagle Creek travel the four corners of the world in their spare time. By yak, by Fiat, by bus, by fast train, or by airplane, Eagle Creek employees are on a quest to determine how their gear can work better in any circumstance. Just as importantly, the company listens to its well-traveled customers, who demand that their travel gear be smart, indestructible, and comfortable. That's why Eagle Creek builds every product with the highest-quality, most-reliable performance in mind. Every buckle, zipper, webbing, and fabric choice is scrutinized based on rigorous lab and field testing. The company is also keenly aware of the environmental impact of its products. Eagle Creek strives to minimize material waste and source and manufacture its products using the least harmful fabrics, trims, and packaging materials available.
Transforms from compact pouch to a full-size daypack
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Kelty Redwing 50 Internal Frame Pack Review
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Lifetime Warranty
Kelty products include a limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
About Kelty
Since 1952, Kelty has built affordable, reliable adventure gear that enables everyone from the first-time camper to the experienced mountaineer to embrace any outdoor experience with confidence.
The proven Redwing is the most popular pack on the trail. Revered for its roomy main compartment, convenient organizational pockets, sturdy LightBeam™ II stay and suspension system, and comfortable design, it’s no wonder this classic, which just got a facelift, consistently earns top scores.
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The pack also includes a sewn-in hydration sleeve with a well-marked exit port, ensuring that you stay well hydrated on the trail. And serious trekkers will love the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, which leaves both your hands free for climbing. Other details include removable sleeping pad straps, dual ice tool loops and bungee tool tie-offs, and a couple of dual mesh side pockets with InsideOut compression, which allow you to tension and secure your load easily when the pockets are in use. The pack--which is available in graphite grey, green apple, and aspen gold colors--comes in small, medium, and large sizes.
  The Atmos 50 includes a pair of vertical zippered front pockets and a trekking pole attachment. |
Amazon.com Backpack Guide
Finding the Right Backpack
For extended trips into the backcountry, there's no getting around the fact that you'll have to carry life-sustaining supplies on your back. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a backpack:
Internal vs. External
Up until late 1970's, external frame packs--which consist of an exposed, lightweight metal frame attached to a fabric pack-bag--were the only thing going. In recent years, though, packs that place the support structure of the pack inside the pack, known as internal frame packs, have boomed in popularity.
The good news about internal frame packs is that they hold the weight of your load close to your body, making it easier to maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Meanwhile, internals provide stiffness and support, but they are not completely rigid, which makes them more flexible when you're doing active sports. With the added flexibility comes a high degree of compressibility, meaning you can use the pack's compression straps to cinch down your load and keep items from shifting and throwing you off balance. Internals also sport slimmer shapes that allow for more arm movement in all directions--another big plus for off-trail bushwhackers, skiers and climbers. Last but not least, internal frame packs offer a greater range of adjustability in the shoulder harness and hip-belt than external frame packs.
There are some negatives for internals. First, once packed, it can be difficult to grab needed items out of them quickly. And because internal frame packs consolidate the load into a single, body-hugging unit, proper packing is very important. To distribute the weight properly, you should pack your heaviest items close to your back and in the middle portion of the pack-bag. Plan on getting a sweaty back with an internal, too, given the fact that they are pressed right against you. Finally, internal frame packs are priced higher than external models.
External frame packs are very good at focusing the weight of a load directly to the right place: your load-loving hips. While internals, when properly packed, do this effectively, too, you can always rest assured that an external will distribute the load evenly, no matter how unevenly packed it may be. Externals also offer easy access to your gear via multiple, easily-accessible compartments. Plus, because externals don't situate the load directly against your back, you'll enjoy far more air flow. Finally, if you're on a budget, or you're buying for a growing child, externals are more affordable.
If you plan on hiking on easy to moderate trails and you don't need a lot of body movement, you'll probably be fine with an external. But because externals are so rigid and inflexible, challenging trails or any kind of off-trail pursuit can become painful and frustrating. Also know that your balance is far more compromised with an external frame pack during activities like stream crossings and hops through talus fields.
Packs for Shorter Trips
In addition to backpacks designed for overnight trips, rucksacks are great for day-trips, warm-weather one-nighters, single-day ski trips, or fast alpine assaults. Some rucksacks blur the line between backpack and rucksack with integrated internal supports and sophisticated hip belts and shoulder harnesses. Choose a pack in this category based on your intended use. Short day hikers don't need an internal frame, while climbers and skiers with heavier loads likely do.
Sizes and Capacities
Packs in the 3,000 cubic inches and lower category are good for day hikes or overnighters in warm weather with minimal gear. Packs in the 3,000 to 4,000 cubic inch range are good for one- or two-night trips in colder weather. If you're going to be out for up to three days, look for a pack in the sub-4,000 cubic inch range. Choose a pack with 5,000-6,000 cubic inches for week-long outings. And finally, for trips lasting a week or more, you'll need something in the 6,000-plus cubic inch category. Keep in mind, though, that bigger packs weigh more, and since every ounce counts, you'll want to choose a pack that offers just enough space for your outings and no more.
Superlight backpacking and active adventure pack features floating top pocket, 2 side zippered front pockets, 2 ice tool loops with bungee tie-offs, and 2 removable sleeping pad straps
High Sierra Loop Backpack Review
About High Sierra
For over 25 years, High Sierra Sport Company has strived to provide the bags you need at a price you can afford. Specializing in adventure travel, High Sierra's dedication to function, design, and quality shines in each product. From athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, to students, travelers, and professionals, High Sierra's versatile, innovative products are sure to fit your needs. High Sierra Sport Company is the official supplier of bags to the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding teams, and its memberships include the Outdoor Industry Association and Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA).
Founded in 1979 as H. Bernbaum Import & Export Company by Harry Bernbaum and Hank Bernbaum, High Sierra Sport Company has grown to become one of the largest outdoor companies in the United States. Today, High Sierra Sport Company employs 40 people and distributes and sells to more than 1,500 retailers and 2,250 corporate accounts worldwide.
With athletic style, big, multi-compartment design, monster hook and bottom straps to attach sporting equipment and lots more, Loop has the features to handle it all, from a weekend camping trip to a trip to the gym.
