Advice on Buying a Pack

First, consider borrowing a pack instead of buying

Chose the right fit

• Are you still growing?
  • is the pack adjustable?
• What is your torso length? torso length is the distance between:
  • 7th vertebrae (the lump on the back of your neck near the tops of your shoulders).
  • the top of your pelvis (hip crest).

Is the pack 'well-designed'?

• padded Shoulder straps
• padded hip belt
• sternum strap
• load control straps
• stabilizer straps
• compression straps

Solid construction?

• Grommets, webbing, or other reinforcements where pack attaches to frame.
• Double cloth or other reinforcement where straps attach or where lashing points are provided.
• Heavier material on bottom of internal frames where they "sit" on the ground.
• Compression straps across front-loading zippered major compartments.
• Seams that are "rolled and wrapped" or sealed
• Standard buckles, quick releases/snaps, and pin & rings

Is there sufficient storage space?

• 3200-4500 in^3 for an external frame pack
• 4500-6000 in^3 for an internal frame pack

Are there enough places to hide stuff?

• how many external pockets (at least 3)?
• D-rings on shoulder straps?
• lashing points (upper, lower, daisy chain)?

Are there places for two quarts of water?

• water bottle holder
• camelback bladder holder

Does the pack weigh less than 6 pounds (preferably about 4 lbs)?

How water-proof is the pack?

Extras?

• beaver Tail
• ski holders
• ice ax holders (quick release)
• crampon holders
• haul loop
• main compartment extender
• fits under an airplane seat?
• camera/GPS/cell-phone pouch on shoulder strap

Does it cost between $75-$175?

Bibliography (taken from):

• http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/r/p/rpc1/bbb/buypack.htm