Travel Backpacks

[krusden]

Travelling Europe/US for three months in about 3 months or so and wondering if anyone can give me any ideas on backpacks as follows
- 75 or 90 litre - is there a massive difference? (we won't be taking tents and plan to stay in hostels mainly btw).
- Prices vary widely as do brands. Any brand reviews? particularly wondering if anyone has used Black Wolf packs or can give me a review? is it the more expensive the better or are some of the cheaper brands okay?

i'd appreciate any help as it's probably the most important purchase i am gonna make!

 

[HarryTiger]

Size should be partly dependent on your size. Bigger people bigger clothing, and also it will sit better on you if it's not too small or big.

I'm sure a Blackwolf would be absolutely fine, same build I reckon as European models that cost more because they're European models.

Most important of all is the design,

- top loading vs zip down. (TL = duffle with hood)
- large compartment vs modular
- with/without day pack.

that kind of thing.

The top loaders are preferred out doors packs because the hood acts as a roof and zips can leak. Though if rain is going to be around then you really need a full cover.

I've only ever had the one and if I bought another I wouldn't care too much about the gimmicky stuff, just get a large tube style top loader.

What you do is get separate durable bags and sort your stuff into them. Canvas tote bags are ideal. Can get compression sacks like for sleeping bags and put crushable clothing in them.

If you want a smaller bag then just get something light and crushable and carry it in the pack. Or haul one around separately if you aren't on the move much that's fine. You've seen the backpackers carrying their daypack on their fronts when they're off to the airport or hostel or whatever. Backpacking isn't trekking so comfort isn't such an issue for the backpacker, being weighed down a bit when they do move can be tolerated.

But it's up to you, you might want the bag which zips or clips on your main pack. Or compartments on the side and all that. Opportunities for wandering hands.

Macpac I think are one of the best around but cost maybe double a Blackwolf. I don't have one of those I have the other more popular but crappier New Zealand brand (and overpriced outside of sale time).

You probably should have got one whilst xmas sales were on.

 

[krusden]

thanks mate. there is still okay sales about in camping/disposal stores i noticed in melbourne. blackwolf packs were down to about the $200 mark.

- thankyou once again

 

[rdhopkins2]

Very important that when you buy that the consultant fits the pack to you and explains how to adjust it.

I normally say travel light- you end up buying more along the way. Too much and your pack turns into a massive weight and even worse susceptible to baggage excess charges.

I prefer hiking packs to travel packs. Unless you know you don't have to walk far, hiking packs will be more comfy.

Check out your local camping stores plus Aussie Disposals, Anaconda, Kathmandu, Snowgum, Mountain Designs, Paddy Pallin, Snowgum, The North Face etc to get an idea of what's out on the market.

Check out their websites, next specials may be in early April if you can wait that long.

I've owned a Carribee pack. Looked nice, was reasonably comfy but the blooming zip broke in the middle of Switzerland. Disaster. Got the zip fixed and have it as a backup pack as I don't trust it for a bigger trip.

My current pack is a Kathmandu one. More pricey but never had a drama with it (*touchwood*).

Guess it depends on whether this is a once off trip or whether you may need a backpack in future for travel or camping as to what you go for and what you are prepared to pay....

I also suggest a daypack that you wear on the front and can clip to the backpack for security.

 

[Jafa]

Blackwolf are pretty much poo.

I have a Macpac Ravine. Bloody bombproof and the harness is superb. It's more of a tramping pack but you could travel with it.