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JanSport Carson Backpack - 4900cu in

Item #JAN0311 | 0 in Stock

I'm brand new to backpacking, but have done a bit of camping...

By Ranked #1129 - Backpacks February 9, 2009

I'm brand new to backpacking, but have done a bit of camping and day-hiking. I want to start taking weekend backpacking trips and, sometime this year, take a 5 day trip. I'm not considering going light or ultralight, and will need a pack that I can use comfortably on my weekend trips, but will also be suitable for the 5 day trip I want to take. Would I be better off getting an external frame, such as this one, or going with a smaller internal frame, around 3500-3700cu in?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

By Backcountry.com Employee February 9, 2009

Hey Ken,I was in your shoes about 2 years ago when I was getting into overnight backpacking. If you are looking to eventually get a pack for a 5 day trip, I think you are in the ballpark of what size of a pack you should get. In 2007, I did several shorter weekend trips and then a "grand finale" trip to Glacier NP that lasted 7 days in the same pack that is 4400 cu in. Anything in the 4000 - 4800 cu in range should be good for your objectives. If you are not planning on going light as you said, I would hesitate on getting a pack below 3800 cu in. for a 5 day trip unless you are OK with strapping items on the outside of the pack (assuming you are packing a lot). A pack 5k cu in and above would probably be unnecessary unless if you wanted to pack a lot of stuff/go on an extended trip. I'd recommend something like the Gregory Baltoro... it's the size you are looking for, it's extremely sturdy, and very comfortable, and it can hold a heavy load. I used this pack for a year straight on many trips and I've been very happy with it.http://www.backcountry.com/store/GRE0059/Gregory-Baltoro-70-Backpack-4149-4638cu-in.htmlIf you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me directly... I'd be happy to assist you with anything else (ggoodson@backcountry.com) - Greg

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

Tech Specs:

Material:
600D Polyester, 420D nylon 
Volume:
4900cu in (80.3L) 
Suspension:
Aluminum frame, S-curve shoulder straps, dual-density hip-belt 
Hydration Compatible:
No 
Torso Adjustment:
Yes 
Detachable Pack:
No 
Sleeping Bag Compartment:
No 
Rain Cover:
No 
Access Types:
Top, panel 
External Pockets:
1 Lid, 2 side, 2 water bottle 
Snowboard Carry:
No 
Ski Carry:
No 
Gear Loops:
No 
Ice Axe Loops:
No 
Shovel Pocket:
No 
Weight:
4lb 13oz (2.2kg) 
Recommended Use:
Backpacking, hiking, traveling 
Manufacturer Warranty:
Lifetime 
Country of Origin:
China 
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