Today I helped Vicki get a backpack for the trip. She had done her research and had found one she liked online, but when we got to the store and she looked at it in person, she knew it wasn’t for her.
The big thing I look for in a backpack/daypack is the ease of getting to ‘my stuff’ inside. I like the packs that have the big zipper 3/4 of the way around so I can easily find what I’m looking for or rearrange items. I also like a pack with waist pockets…the perfect place for tissues, snacks, pepper spray – anything that I might want to access quickly. And of course, space for a water bladder.
Vicki tried several on and found that some were super uncomfortable for her, but she settled on a nice Osprey pack. It’s great to do research on gear, but there’s nothing better than checking it out in person to make sure it works for you!
Adventures in Colorado, 2023 edition 