[pct-l] Best Backpack for multi-day trips

[Sergey Shevchenko]

Hi James and Rick,

I've just bought a Deuter 65+10 myself, after a long research. I've chosen
this over ULA and similar lighter packs mostly because the suspension
seemed clearly better, so much so as to compensate for the slight increase
in weight. By the way, it's not 4.3 lb - it's 3 lb 14 oz.

I'm going on JMT section trip next weekend and will see if I've made the
right choice. My fiancee is going to carry a ULA Circuit, so we'll see how
they compare. So far, the way the Deuter feels on my back with 30 lb in it
is great (I went on a 7-mile testing hike with it). Function-wise it's a
very good pack too, although not great: some functions I'd like to see are
missing, e.g. straps for a sleeping pad at the bottom (but there are
several alternative ways to attach a pad to it), a second belt pocket, and
others. Many functions that James wants are missing too, obviously, given
the rather remarkable weight for such a robust and adjustable suspension:
e.g. no front zippered access to the contents.

If I don't forget, I'll post an update once we're back in second half of
June.

--Sergey
On Jun 21, 2013 4:35 PM, "Rick" <core.equipment at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi James,
>
> Sounds like you may want to have a look at the Deuter ACT Lite 65 + 10
> because it fulfills most of your requirements and I can really recommend
> with it. Yes there are lighter packs out there (it's 4.3 pound), but it
> certainly shows its strength on less groomed trails than the PCT as it is
> very robust and is build for many, many trips to come. The +10 section is
> awesome and works great for either 5 day including bear can or 2 day slack
> packing trips. You can find it for ~$150 on sale.
>
> Good luck with your search!
>
> Section hiker Rick
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Jun 21, 2013, at 3:58 PM, James <mntmn4jesus at aol.com> wrote:
>
> >
> > My Northface backpack is a little dated and I would like to upgrade it
> with the following enhancements:
> >
> > More outer pockets
> > Zip out center of pack to get to everything more easily
> > Compressibility when used for summit pack
> > Better fit on my back with some ventilation as well
> > Section designed for Bladder Hydration Systems (that can be used for
> other things as well)
> > Expandability for carrying larger loads (i.e. Sleeping Bag, Bear
> Cannister, & Tent)
> > Lighter Weight (current pack weighs over 5 pounds)
> > Shovel, & Probe Pockets
> > Straps or other system designed for carrying skis
> > Convenient system for attaching poles
> > Convenient system for attaching ice ax / crampons
> >
> > Even if your pack doesn't meet all of these specifications I would
> greatly appreciate feedback from those of you who spend a lot of time on
> the PCT and know what works for you.  My main interest is multiday trips to
> summit.  I am planning multi day trips in California (Mt. Tyndale via
> Shepard Pass - Did Williamson last summer), Nevada (Ruby Dome) and my home
> state of Colorado (day trips to Mt. Sneffels, Shavano, Tabegauche, Harvard,
> Evans & Longs Peak).
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