Choosing the right backpack...

Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 02:38 AM
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Choosing the right backpack...

I'm going travelling for 3 months and need a decent backpack, they're so expensive, can anyone recommend the right pack?
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 03:49 AM
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http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-Ci...teves+backpack
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 04:52 AM
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That bag is hideous.

This one is better looking, holds more, is better organized, can hold a computer, can be turned into a shoulder bag, and comes in colors other than red: http://www.amazon.com/eBags-Mother-W.../dp/B0068B7LIY

It's pretty durable too.

That being said, the best option is to go somewhere where you can try out multiple backpacks and see which one feels the best. be sure to bring stuff to fill it up. Do you have an REI or similar nearby?
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 05:26 AM
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I used an Eagle Creek convertible happily for over ten years. But if you can visit an REI store you will get good advice and the opportunity to test drive a pack.
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 05:28 AM
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BTW, I think the OP is asking about a MAIN pack, not a day pack.
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 05:36 AM
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I think you're right. The bag I linked isn't a daypack but it's also not a "hardcore" "backpacker" backpack. It can hold quite a lot of clothes and gear though.

OP, go to an REI or other outdoor shop and try what they have.

Somewhere I have an image of an ALICE pack and how (and what) to pack in it for a long backpacking tour (non-wilderness). if I can find it, I'll link it.
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 07:25 AM
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better looking? not really its a freakin bag afterall and just the right size. no need for the kitchen sink.
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 07:35 AM
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Hey, thanks so much. It's the main bag I'm after. I thought something about 60 litres would probably be big enough.
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 07:48 AM
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Try this:

http://shop.eaglecreek.com/rincon-65l/d/1002_c_116
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 08:52 AM
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My backpacking days are over, but I ended up using a travel pack instead of a conventional backpack. It wouldn't be very good for mountaineering or serious trekking, but was great for ordinary travel. The features that won me over were:

● Straps that could be tucked away so they wouldn't get snagged on airport conveyor belts/carousels.
● A day bag that fastened onto the main bag.
● It unzipped at the front, making it easier to reach items without emptying the whole bag.
● A cross-shoulder strap as well as conventional backpack straps.

I can't find my particular model anymore, but it was something like this: http://store.berghaus.com/p/travel-p...el-pack/420302
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 02:45 PM
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You really need to shop in person. A backpack is different than a suitcase in that it needs to "fit".
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Old Sep 2nd, 2013, 11:51 PM
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Hey, Tolkein, I don't understand why your post was removed. The comparison link was very useful.
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Old Sep 3rd, 2013, 10:44 AM
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Tolkein: It was probably removed because it was your very first and only ever post on Fodors. When a first post is a link to a website it is most often someone advertising or spam.

So if you are legit and it wasn't advertising . . then re-post the info.

(folks can post links and do all the time - but when someone has never been on the site before - it does look suspicious - welcome to Fodors BTW )
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Old Sep 3rd, 2013, 12:12 PM
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Hey Janisj - fair point well made! Oh and thanks!!
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Old Sep 3rd, 2013, 09:49 PM
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I think you should browse in online store to find right backpack for you, But still the backpack you should have that like a home that cater all your things to fit in.
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Old Sep 4th, 2013, 09:39 AM
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The people at REI or other outdoor store can help you. It is basically impossible for us to recommend a pack for you because individual needs and fit are so critical.
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Old Sep 4th, 2013, 05:39 PM
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Where's Improviser when you need him!
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Old Sep 4th, 2013, 06:42 PM
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Apparently he went away just like he promised . . . and aren't we all happy about that
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Old Sep 4th, 2013, 09:24 PM
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He went away on a three week vacation. He's visiting three countries in three different continents. It's research for his book on the traveling rules of three.
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Old Sep 4th, 2013, 09:30 PM
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Three compasses?
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