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Backpacker Magazine – Gear Guide 2012

Gear Guide 2012: Backpacks

Find the perfect load hauler for any type of trip.

by: Nancy Prichard Bouchard

JanSport Cienega (Ben Fullerton)
JanSport Cienega (Ben Fullerton)


Daypacks

Ladies' Choice: JanSport Cienega Backpack

Featherweight Spring Ski Pack: Salomon Quest 30 Backpack


Best Ventilation: Sierra Designs Discovery 30 Backpack


Instant Access: Ortovox Lightning 25 Backpack


Workhorse: Columbia Treadlite 22 Backpack


More Tester Picks - Daypacks


Multiday Packs

Best All-Around: Osprey Atmos 65 Backpack

Versatile Bargain: First Ascent Alchemist 40 Backpack


Hot-weather Warrior: Mountainsmith Ghost 50 Backpack


Waterproof: Exped Torrent 50 Backpack


Mountaineering Lightweight: Marmot Drakon 35 Backpack


Quick-change Artist: Mile High Salute 34 Backpack


Feature Rich: GoLite Quest 50 Backpack


Bombproof: Arcteryx NoZone 55 Backpack


Light and Stable: Gregory Savant 58 Backpack


Family Hauler: Deuter Aircontact 65+10 Backpack


Custom-fit Load Monster: Vaude Terkum 75 +10 Backpack


Big-load Stability: Black Diamond Mercury 65 Backpack


Editors' Choice Update: REI Flash 62 Backpack


More Tester Picks - Multiday Packs



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READERS COMMENTS

Nate
Nov 07, 2012

I can barely pull a one nighter in my Northface Terra 35. I would only use 50 liters and up for comfortable trips of more than one night.

Auntie Coosa
Aug 12, 2012

In my research, I have concluded that we all (myself included) jumped on the Internal Frame or No Frame Packs without truly studying human anatomy & physiology. I too quickly accepted the test results of those whose sole gain was to sell me their brand. Or young fit males (females) who pushed the Everyone Can Make An Internal Fit. One Style Does NOT Fit All. I am not ashamed to report that my body style fits an External Frame Pack best. 10-25 lbs of gear & food in a 4-4.5 External Frame is STILL Lightweight Backpacking!

unk
Jul 31, 2012

a 10yo anorexic midget?

unk
Jul 31, 2012

a 34L multiday pack,for who?

Wendy
Jul 31, 2012

I stick to my Granite Gear internal frame pack <3

Jeff
May 04, 2012

I bought the Gear Guide at the grocery store on an impulse. Now I remember why I no longer subscribe. Not one external frame pack? Not one? You didn't even mention that such a thing exists. All of the gear seems to be high end expensive stuff, even the ones you call "bargains". Never again.

Jeff
May 04, 2012

I bought the Gear Guide at the grocery store on an impulse. Now I remember why I no longer subscribe. Not one external frame pack? Not one? You didn't even mention that such a thing exists. All of the gear seems to be high end expensive stuff, even the ones you call "bargains". Never again.

Margo: penandpaddle@gmail.com
May 01, 2012

Injured shoulder skiing, so cannot carry backpack. Desperately need waist (lumbar, fanny) pack large enough to carry 750 ml thermos. Any assistance very much appreciated.

Kurt
May 01, 2012

What about the Kelty Redwing?!? That backpack is AWESOME!!!

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