Pack Question

[bakwoi]

I'm about to purchase a new pack and need a lil advice. I have only been backpackin once and used someone elses timberland pack which was ok and now I need to get my own for a trip in July.

I think I've narrowed it down to the Eaglecreek Voyager 65L or 90L
http://eaglecreek.com/bags_luggage/a...age-65L-10051/

http://eaglecreek.com/bags_luggage/a...age-90L-10054/

does anyone have any experience with these paks?? I like all the features, expecially the front loading sinceI was stuck with a top loading before which was rough. I see that basically the only difference is the sleeping bag compartment on the bottom of the 90L which i figure ill need since i will be doing a good amount of hiking and will need some place to put my boots.

any thoughts?

[mbo108]

Is there anyway to strap your boots to the outside of the 65L with carabiners or bungees? You'll probably be wearing them while doing the actual hiking, so presumably the boots won't be worn on the easier treks and whatnot.

I'm just thinking that 90L is HUGE. Unless you're going to really be camping and need all that space for equipment, 65 should be fine for the essential clothes and other things.

Good luck in your travels.

[joe7f]

I bought an Eagle Creek that is no longer made (it is closer to the 90L only without the Sleeping bag compartment, I think it was 75L). My sister has the 65L which is great for her, but my clothes are bigger (I'm 6' and about 240) so for a long trip, I think I needed the extra space.

If you are smaller and/or the trip is not that long, you can probably get by with the 65L. The big advantage there is that it is carry on legal

I have been very happy with my Eagle Creek bag.

--Joey

[mbo108]

Glad you got something you're comfortable with. Have a great time.

[leecian]

I have'nt experience yet, but i'll try to check it

[ryant]

I have the 90L pack and love it but choosing a pack size comes down to personal preference. I like the versatility of the big pack – If I am on a short trip I will throw the day pack inside, I also have to carry a laptop for work wherever I go. The big pack gives me plenty of room for clothes, laptop and souvenirs (even when traveling for 3+ months with winter clothes).

On the other hand a big pack can get heavy. I am a large person 6’4” 220LB so the weight of the pack doesn’t bother me too much but if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking the big one may not be for you.

On a side note my Eagle Creek has held up really well. I have done 5 extended backpacking trips with it – living out of it for approx. 1 year – I have never had a problem with it. Eagle Creek has a great warranty if you do have a problem.

[petalbear]

Heya! You're in luck. I got the Voyage 65l in Graphite last year. I absolutely loved it [ and still loving it] It's much different the typical pack, being much more back-friendly. I really like daypack [that's about 20l, if i remember correctly] that can be taken off and attached back. I think the bigger the pack, the more I will be tempted to put so the 65l [to my personal pref] is great. I'm 5'7" and about 150lb.

So far, I've had it for a year and haven't had any problems. I used it on a 6 week long around Spain/Morocco last year. Did lots of walking, no hiking. It was summer, so didn't need all the warm clothing. Also used on a trip in SE Asia, no problems there.

Hope this is helpful!

-petalB

[The Monsignor]

Pack size is a killer, too - A bigger pack allows you to carry more, but at the same time, you almost feel obligated to carry more. A smaller pack requires you to think hard about what you're bringing along with you.

I have a different Eagle creek backpack, but I have to say, I'm really pleased with their stuff so far. I've used mine for years now, and though I'm pretty tough on my equipment, I've not had any issues with it.

[bakwoi]

I ended up with the 65L. When it arrived I kinda thought it might be too small since i doubt there will be much room for souvenirs but I think it is for the btter since i know if I got the 90 I'd b bringing way too much stuff.

So those of y ou with the 65L, do you just tie stuff u buy on the the pack and stick stuff in the daypak?