Re: [pct-l] new to backpacking!

[Kathy Seasholtz <dseashol@cub.kcnet.org>]

Andrea Kathryn Ceppi wrote:

> Hi everyone,
>
> I am new to the world of backbacking, but totally jazzed on the idea of
> hiking the John Muir Trail this July. I am looking to buy a backpack right
> now. I have been looking at Dana Designs models. Unfortunately, we don't
> have a very large selection here in Hawaii. I tried on the Bridger with 30
> lbs and loved it. I don't, however, think that it's suitable to this
> length of trip. I want to look into the Glacier and the Terraplane (by the
> way I'm a 5'2" woman) because I've heard good stuff about them. Does
> anyone have any advice for me??? I'd really appreciate input from those of
> you who have done this before.

Hi Andrea,

I'm only a weekend warrior but I purchased a Dana Design Arclight Glacier
backpack 2 years ago and love it!  I tried on many packs from Lowe Alpine to
North Face to Osprey to you name it - they are all great packs but it has to
feel right for the individual - I'm 5'7" so I needed help from the store
employees in adjusting the packs to fit my height.  I drove the poor folks in
the local outdoor store crazy - but I was very pleased with my choice and they
were glad that I finally decided!   I think the pack is 5500ci if my memory
serves me right.  In the beginning I found it to be a little more pack than
perhaps I needed for weekend trips but I wouldn't trade it for anything.  It
rides well and and is very comfortable - that's the key to an enjoyable hike.
It's a top loader and the outside pockets are convenient for lunchtime snacks.
Sometimes after making camp I'll pull the lid compartment off and use it as a
fanny pack and we'll trek around before we call it a night.

All the best for your JMT hike in July.

Kathy


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