What cha packin....size that is

[millmuff]

So I bought a new back about 2 months back and got to give her a decent test run over the last week or so, but still have a few doubts lingering in my head. Heres the pack I bought http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_d...=1158247865003 ...sorry about the massive address.

Anyways to sum it up its a 65L and I'm thinking I might be able to get away with a smaller one. I'm headed out on a RTW closer to the end of the year and really want to go as small as possible, but at the same time I'm not the most experienced backpacker so dont know how light I could get. All in all I'm real happy with it, but I wanted to hear what people here considered an average size to do such a trip with??

Peace.

[bekkle]

This is a really good question-- I have a similar one (and figure I might peg it on to get some nice detailed responses from everyone!)

Whereas millmuff here thinks she's bought too large, I'm considering getting this pack: http://www.ebags.com/eagle_creek/cen...?modelid=67248
It has really nice utilities and comfort features, but it's small. Smaller than the maximum of most carry-on requirements.

Is there anyone here who travels with a pack this small? I'm definitely willing to "rough it" for convenience, only bring 2 tshirts and a skirt (or whatever). Is it possible? Is it preferable?

Sorry for hopping on to your question, millmuff! Thanks everyone!

[Diorama]

I have a 60L pack as well as a detachable daypack. It's fine. I always had everything fit in my pack. I also always (almost) had spare room. It's essential that you don't leave the house with a full bag. Along the way you will fill it!

My main thing regarding backpacks is making sure that there is a zipper that goes right around the pack. It is a lifesaver. I simply cannnot do those backpacks that only have one zipper down the side or just have a drawstring up top. Imagine your at a bus station and need to grab something at the bottom of your bag quickly. I backpacked europe with a inefficient bag and I swear my stress level went up.

[Kevin-L]

I think you'll be more upset with buying something too big than two small. when given the option you'll always pack more than you really need. weight is always a burden, don't forget that you will probably pick up stuff along the way, that adds up quick.
I totally agree with the side zipper/ side access. it makes what you bring more efficient meaning you can pack less. (why carry that stuff at the bottom if it wont see the light of day). this coming from the guy that carrys a 130 litter pack and daypack.

[freespiritz]

It's kind of sad that I have no idea how big my pack is. Maybe it's a 40L, although that sounds small. It's not that big, but neither am I, and neither are my clothes. I could go indefinitely w/ it while packing for 3 seasons, assuming I don't go crazy shopping on the way but I do have a seperate daypack.

If I got a new pack, I would probably also look for a side-loading one, and maybe one with a detachable daypack. Makes life easier!

[d_fresh]

mine is a 65l sideloader. anything else would be way too heavy...

[MissChick]

My backpack was 75L I think and not packed full at all but now I realize how silly I looked carring that huge pack it was way too big for me...i'm 5'4 (almost) and slackers 6'4" and it looked big on him....next time something much smaller is in order. We figure when we go next time we're just going to take one pack and a day pack between us....it was more then enough for the last part of the trip.. I think you learn about your pack as you go...like over packing this will change.

[HEWSINATOR]

Here is my pack, and a pic of EVERYTHING that is going in it for 79 days in Europe.

The pack is TNF Backtrack 70L.

[marc873]

I would go with a smaller pack too. I have an Eagle Creek http://eaglecreek.com/bags_luggage/a...age-90L-10054/ And this pack is perfect. Its not a toploader, so the zipper actually goes around the whole pack like a suitcase. Easy access. It is also the right size for carry on, and also has a security wire, and the most important, a detachable day pack. I suggest this pack to anyone that asks.

[HEWSINATOR]

That 90L is the right size for carry-on?

[Majestic58]

Ok, so I'm going to be in Europe for about 18 weeks (Aug 30th - Beginning of January) I really don't plan on taking much... I figure that what I am looking for is something between 2600 and 3000 CI... About 44-50L? Any suggestions?

[Jen]

Ive been backpacking RTW for over 5months and think Ive packed lightly with a 55L, however it is always such a hassle to pack because of this and it gets stressful. I wish Id got a bigger size and had it only three quarters full to make life easier.

[marc873]

Originally Posted by HEWSINATOR

That 90L is the right size for carry-on?

Yep, thats what I fly with all the time

[lemlern]

This is what I picked up.

http://www.ebags.com/high_sierra/com...?modelid=63378

It is 3200 but when I got it in the mail it seemed a whole lot bigger. I shudder to think if I would have gotten a 5000, considering I am pretty short. It is acutally quite handy because it has a separator in it so I can put nasty dirty clothes in one part and clean ones in the other. It also has a detachable daypack which is up to airport carry on standards. I do not think the actual pack could be taken on a plane, but if you think it could please let me know!! I am going to be using this for a little over a month, but I have to pack "business casual" outfits for my study abroad portion of my trip. Sooo more clothes than normal will be coming with me.