this post was submitted on 13 Jul 2023
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Looking for pack style reccomendations (midwest.social)
submitted 11 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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Looking for a new backpack. I don't like having 40 pockets to stash stuff in. I would prefer a frame but not having one isn't a deal breaker. Have lower back issues so it needs to sit appropriately.

MOLLE, ALICE, ILBE, or FILBE? Something else?

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago)

What I was getting at is that specific gear choices will have a big impact. For example, you will need a much bigger pack to haul an REI Half Dome tent and 20F synthetic sleeping bag than you would need for a Henry Shires Tarptent and a 40F down sleeping bag. My usual suggestion is to take your gear to an outdoor store and spend some time fitting it into packs and trying them on.

That said, if you want something big enough to give you lots of options, I have several friends who swear by the Gregory Palisades pack (which is unfortunately discontinued but easy to find on eBay). And if you really want to go the economical route then I have a potentially unpopular suggestion: a used Kelty external frame. I have one that I still pull out for some multi-day summer trips. They can haul more gear than anyone should be carrying. Bulky items easily strap to the frame below the back.