Backpack - Lightweight These are our lightest packs, ideal when you have a limited amount of gear to carry or have light, compressible gear. These packs can get uncomfortable with much more than 30 pounds in them, so be aware of what you have to carry before ordering. For most typical backpacking loads, we suggest renting a medium-capacity pack. But if you can pack right, this is a great pack to carry.
Example packs in this series include the Granite Gear Vapor Trail, weighing in at a feathery 2 pounds even; and a Gregory Z55, at about 3 ¼ pounds. Both are in the 3500 cubic inch range, which is adequate as long as you’re taking high quality, compressible gear that is lightweight as well. This is not the type of pack to carry a lot of heavy winter clothes or a big synthetic cold-weather sleeping bag, for example. If you have any questions on whether a pack in this series is a good choice for your plans, just give us a call.
These can be good packs for women or kids if there is some lucky guy on the same trip willing to pack more than his share. He could consider renting a high-capacity pack as the family mule.
We only have lightweight packs made for medium torsos. What’s a torso to a backpack? It’s the length along your spine, starting at the top at your C7 vertebrae - that bone at the base of your neck that sticks out when you bend your head forward. Measure down your spine to a point on your lower back even with those hip bones that stick out and support your spare tire – the iliac crest is what that’s called. It’s tricky to measure yourself, so get a friend with a measuring tape to help you figure it out. For a picture/diagram of how to measure your torso, see here. After doing all that, if the results are close to 17” – 19”, you’d be fine with these packs.
Learn more about backpacks, including the pros and cons of externals vs internals; info on fitting; how to load up with your gear and how to select the best pack for you. We also have a series of videos about backpacks. Or just give us a call at 800-994-4537 to ask any questions about the best backpack for your needs.
