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#187694 - 11/12/14 09:01 PM what to look for in a Starter/Budget DayPack?
freeballer Offline
newbie

Registered: 08/30/14
Posts: 12
The last few months I've been using a 9L daypack. Its just large enough for my hydration bladder, medical / survival kit, emergency poncho, mylar blanket and a few misc.. I think its time to "graduate" to a larger pack..

In addition to my "regulars", space for clothes (+ socks, a windbreaker...) I'd like to have enough space for camp stove, possibly a hammock. It would be nice if it had attack points for trek poles and hydration compatible..

Definitely open to suggestions.. There aren't many options locally, so I'd probably have to order it and hope I won't have to return it and pay postage. I was hoping to stay within a range of about $100-$150..

Also which would be better for bad back? internal vs. external frame..

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#187700 - 11/13/14 11:53 AM Re: what to look for in a Starter/Budget DayPack? [Re: freeballer]
billstephenson Offline
Moderator

Registered: 02/07/07
Posts: 3917
Loc: Ozark Mountains in SW Missouri
There are a lot of decent packs in that price range. I use an Osprey Talon 44L that's light and durable. I can cram enough for a 2-3 cold nighter in it, but it also makes a great daypack.
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#187703 - 11/13/14 02:11 PM Re: what to look for in a Starter/Budget DayPack? [Re: freeballer]
OregonMouse Offline
member

Registered: 02/03/06
Posts: 6800
Loc: Gateway to Columbia Gorge
Check out articles on the home page of this site, left hand column for information on selecting packs--there's one on bad back issues, too!

I personally need an internal frame--external frames tend to zig when I zag, causing falls, while internal frames move with me. Do note that pack fit is almost as individual as shoe fit, so what works for one of us may not work for you. For example, my hips are completely incompatible with Osprey hip belts, so for me that brand is not an option, while a number of folks on this forum think Osprey packs are wonderful. My suggestion is to pack up what you want to put in the pack and take it with you to the local stores to try out what's available. The pack needs to fit you, fit your gear, and, above all, be comfortable for you to carry with your gear inside.

_________________________
May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey

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#187709 - 11/13/14 08:27 PM Re: what to look for in a Starter/Budget DayPack? [Re: billstephenson]
freeballer Offline
newbie

Registered: 08/30/14
Posts: 12
Originally Posted By billstephenson
There are a lot of decent packs in that price range. I use an Osprey Talon 44L that's light and durable. I can cram enough for a 2-3 cold nighter in it, but it also makes a great daypack.


Maybe its overkill, but I like having a little extra space.. Especially considering how much space is taken up by a bladder/hydration system. I typically bring a litre or two; depending if its an hour long, or afternoone excursion.


Edited by freeballer (11/13/14 08:28 PM)

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#187710 - 11/13/14 08:28 PM Re: what to look for in a Starter/Budget DayPack? [Re: OregonMouse]
freeballer Offline
newbie

Registered: 08/30/14
Posts: 12

Originally Posted By OregonMouse
Check out articles on the home page of this site, left hand column for information on selecting packs--there's one on bad back issues, too!

I personally need an internal frame--external frames tend to zig when I zag, causing falls, while internal frames move with me. Do note that pack fit is almost as individual as shoe fit, so what works for one of us may not work for you. For example, my hips are completely incompatible with Osprey hip belts, so for me that brand is not an option, while a number of folks on this forum think Osprey packs are wonderful. My suggestion is to pack up what you want to put in the pack and take it with you to the local stores to try out what's available. The pack needs to fit you, fit your gear, and, above all, be comfortable for you to carry with your gear inside.


Unfortunately, I know of one store specializes in hiking gear.. and most packs with the (basic) features i want are near 200$... My idea was to lookup a review of the pack, and see what others pack as an example..

thank you for that link. I tend to believe more information is better, and hopefully I can avoid a few pitfalls from others experience(s)..

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