Kelty Junior Tioga External Frame Backpack - Kids' - 2050cu in - 2008 BCS

I bought this for my oldest daughter who is currently 8 years old. Overall, its a great little backpack. The external frame has endless adjustment options. I'm sure my daughter will be able to use it for several years. I that's one big advantage over an internal frame pack. The pack holds my daughter's sleeping bag, an extra change of clothes, a small water bladder, her flashlight, and some snacks. We recently hiked the Hakkoda loop in Northern Japan which gives some adults trouble. But, she kept trucking along (w/ only minor complaining;).

That being said, it is still an external frame backpack. With backpack technology today, this thing seems ancient.

I am convinced that the biggest factor involved with getting into backpacking is falling in love with the equipment. My 8-year-old daughter fell in love with this pack. Beginning when it was delivered, and for two weeks aferwards, she loaded and unloaded it daily and took it on practice walks around the neighborhood to show it off to her friends.

While I myself don't like to carry a Kelty, this little pack worked splendidly for Nicole on her first overnight hike. The frame has ample adjustments and she had no complaints about discomfort. The simple top-loading bag is well laid out and well made. Pocket zippers all worked smoothly.

She's going with me next year to Mt. San Gorgonio, and can't wait to strap on her Kelty again.

I bought this pack as a present for my son when he achieved his Arrow of Light rank as a Cub Scout. He had most of the basic camping skills down and was already pearing down his take-a-longs without my help. This pack fit him perfectly and provided just the right amount of room for everything he felt he needed to bring. Packing in to camp in with everything stowed and comfortably carried gave him a sense of confidence that I hadn't seen in a while. He just looks at me now and smurks as troopmates are still lugging multiple trips with armfulls of gear at each outing.

The pack is full Kelty quality. One large main compartment keeps things simple for storage and organization while the smaller side and top flap compartments allow for quick access to smaller necessities. The smaller fram has allowed for my son to experiment with weight distribution and tie fastenings for his tent, pad and bag. Recently he asked me if we could bring each of our packs (I usually pack with my Kelty internal frame) and team up for a shakedown presentation for the Troop.

Thanks Kelty. Scouting is about builidng leaders through confidence. The Kelty Jr. has beena great tool for this in our family.