[pct-l] Right pack for a thru-hike.

[bharve at dslextreme.com (Bruce Harvey)]

It's been a day or so since your first post on the subject, it which you
asked for voices of experience to chime in.  I agree with all who have
responded.  An individual who hasn't responded has some experience with
packs; I think you could benefit by reading his pack reviews.  Since he
hasn't responded to the general list since your post, I'll take the liberty
of including a response he made some time back about Vortex packs.  It
follows below.

 New to the list-serv and backpacking in general.  College
> student looking to thru hike the PCT upon graduation.  I am
> trying to absorb all knowledge I can relating to the PCT, you
> guys are a great help.  I was curious to know if anyone has
> ever done a substantial hike with a Vortex Pack? I haven't
> heard anything bad about them yet.  Might this not be a wise
> choice?  Appreciate the help.

I don't have any experience with Vortex packs, but their packs are heavier
than most people take on the PCT. On longer hikes, weight which have a huge
impact on how much you enjoy the journey.  You want to go as light as you
can while still being comfortable.  I think you will want either an
ultralight frameless pack, or a light weight frame pack.  For a list of
possible packs, take a look at:
http://www.verber.com/mark/outdoors/gear/pack.html

I would also suggest reading "Beyond Backpacking" by Ray Jardine.  While Ray
driffs off to lala land in parts of this book, it is filled with great
information you won't find in any other books.  I made a list of links with
commentary about backpacking for some friends who were getting started that
might be useful to you:
http://www.verber.com/mark/outdoors/hiking.html

Cheers,
Mark