[pct-l] Back Troubles and Pack Weight

[gottago at lindajeffers.com (Linda Jeffers)]

<<<<<Therefore, I strongly suggest that you save several pounds by not
carrying a framed (whether internal or external) pack....>>>>
 
Well, there is always another side and here is mine. I too have a really bad
back. My back problems are terrible when I'm NOT on the trail. Sitting,
standing in one position, lack of movement OR carrying any weight on my
shoulders, generates pain. Each year they get worse. I've been to way too
many doctors over the last 10 years. None seem to know what is going on. 
 
What I know is that I DON'T have back pain when I hike. My back feels great.
(that's why I'm on the trail so much! Pain aversion.) But, then I know for
me, I NEED a backpack that has a way of transferring ALL the weight to my
hips. I need a backpack that has a good frame. Strong stays and a bypass
harness system which allows me to transfer weight from my shoulders and a
nice big thick hip belt suit me just fine.
 
My pack weighs between 3.5 and 4 lbs. 
 
Gottago