Choosing a Pack

 When The Pathfinder first opened in 1975, the term "backpack" was a pretty straightforward one. It was a canvas bag attached to a metal frame used for overnight trips into the wilderness. Today, what we once knew as a backpack is only a small part of the variety of packs available for this purpose.  So how do you, as a consumer, decide which of the many available packs is the best one for you? Let's look at the options, and some general guidelines to help you make decisions.

First, start with that "old-fashioned" backpack. A similar design is still in use today, but it's not nearly as old in its fashion. Referred to as external frame packs, these packs are well designed, with a light frame engineered to carry a great deal of weight. They vary in size from 3000-6000 cubic inches, and cost between $100 and $300, generally.  The advantage of this traditional backpack style, aside from the cost, is the versatility in carrying equipment strapped around the bag and the ability to carry a great deal of weight. The major disadvantage is the bulk and shape which make these packs harder for some activities such as climbing and skiing. The frame is also an impediment to using these packs for overseas trips, as they can be damaged in airline travel.

 An alternative is the internal frame pack, which has become a huge segment of the backpack market. Internal frame packs are often larger (5000-7000 cubic inches) and more expensive ($150-500). The cost is primarily due to the more challenging design of a more streamlined frame built into the pack.  These packs fit more snugly against the back, making them better for activities requiring good balance, and they also allow for more freedom of arm movement. The pack design makes them a little less versatile in carrying space, as there is no external frame to support additional items strapped outside the pack.

One rule to keep in mind is that human nature will fill whatever space is available. If you buy a 6500-cubic-inch pack, that may be much more space than you'll ever need. In fact, much of the time you'd be fine with a much smaller pack, particularly for long day trips or overnight trips for just one night. That's why many folks prefer a smaller pack known as a rucksack or day and a half pack.   Rucksacks have a similar design to internal frame packs, but without the full frame and with a much smaller pack space, usually 2000-3000 cubic inches. They are ideal for long day trips or one night in the backcountry, if you're a careful packer.

Most dayhikers, however, will find plenty of space in a simple daypack. We have a large selection of daypacks, usually ranging from 1000-2000 cubic inches. They serve a multitude of purposes: bookbags for students, packs for extra clothes and supplies for a day in the mountains, diaper bags for busy moms, even extra-large purses for those who need extra room.

 If you're buying your pack for adventure travel, rather than wilderness backpacking, you should consider a travel pack. What's the difference? Travel packs have a frame built into the pack, like an internal frame pack, but they are designed to function as luggage in their shape and features. They aren't made for long distance packing, but for short jaunts to the train station, the youth hostel or the next concourse.

Whatever you're looking for in a pack, the options are broad, so there's sure to be something to fit your needs.