Faremax: Travel Forums

Alright, Lets see what everyone has to recommend. Purpose: A 6-7 day hike to Machu Picchu (Peru). It needs to be able to carry a decent amount of stuff while being reasonably comfortable. I'm not too concerned about price if it sacrifices quality and durability. Thanks!

I've hiked a bunch of times both with the military and civilian organisations. I've used both private and issued back packs, and hand's down, the Bergen, as issued by the RAF kicked butt. Nothing compared to the comfort, carrying capacity (I used an 80), the external carrying straps and so on. Really, I could have carried half my wardrobe and not even felt it on my back.

My suggestion would be get down to a hiking store and try a few on. The independant stores near me will let you put a few things in a bag so you can see how the weight feels, and will let you try out a few different backpacks - they're really really patient and helpful.

I agree a good bag makes a massive difference.

What's a good carrying capacity to go for? 80+lbs? Or lower?

Its not normally the weight that rates it, but the volume. So I used 80 liters normally, though that was for just a few days. Three days you could do in a 60, if it had good external carrying straps.

I usually take an 80 Litre for pretty much everything - I strap my sleeping bag and sleeping mat to the outside, and stuff every pocket as full as possible. For only three days you shouldn't need anything bigger than an 80 Litre in my opinion.