Women's backpack for a long trip
FR

Translated into English.

Original post
KI
Hi everyone!

I'm one of the future round-the-world travelers, leaving on July 2, 2012.

This is my first time gearing up, and I don’t want to make a mistake with my backpack. I’ve already done quite a bit of research, but I was wondering if you could help me refine my choice.

Needs: - Around 50L backpack - Comfort as a priority - Lightweight - Designed for a woman’s back (I’ve read on other forums that this really makes a difference) - Durable fabric (water-repellent is a bonus) - Max load of 7/8 kg

> I don’t need gadgets for experienced hikers (spots for trekking poles, ice axes, etc. = useless for me and just drives up the price)

A salesperson had me try two models in-store with weights—they’re very comfortable (though I don’t have anything to compare them to).

These models don’t have small front pockets—are those essential? They don’t come with a rain cover, but I’ll buy one if I go with either of these.

What do you think?

http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_aura_50_12&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_aura_50&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 (same bag, older model, cheaper)

http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_exos_46&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_exos_58&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 (the best, but expensive...)

Thanks! 🙂
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
TR Triphop33 ·
Hi there,

You're right to choose your backpack carefully—it'll be your home for the next year! :) Comfort first, absolutely! If you've tried a few, you must have felt the difference. Personally, I swear by my Quechua backpack—I find it super comfortable. Way ahead of the big brands sold at Sport Aventures.

For me, lightweight isn't a priority. Sure, it's important, but don't forget the bag will travel in the hold or in a bus trunk. During the day, it'll stay at the guesthouse.

Another priority you didn’t mention is practicality, especially the openings. Mine, for example, can open from the top but also has a double zipper that lets me open it along its entire length. The two zippers meet, so I can put a padlock on it and secure everything when it’s not right next to me.

For the smaller bag, it really depends on what you plan to do during your trip. I do a lot of hiking, so it’s not uncommon for me to leave the big one at the guesthouse for a few days during shorter walks.

So, to sum up, my advice would be: 1. Try other backpacks to compare comfort (you’ll have plenty of options at the Decathlon in Mérignac). 2. If you’re torn between two equally comfortable models, go for the one that seems the most practical.

Happy travels.
triphop33
TH Thibetju Regular ·
Hello!!

Good luck with the preparations—I’m leaving at the end of August with my partner!

As for the backpack, I haven’t bought one yet, but I’m leaning toward an OSPREY because it seems like great quality. I also found it more comfortable than other backpacks, especially for hip support.

Good luck, and see you soon! Julie
Nous sommes en plein tour du monde jusqu'au 1 er juin 2013 http://www.nousetlemonde.fr
KI Kitty2222 ·
I swear by my Quechua—it’s super comfortable. Way better than the big brands sold at Sport Aventures.

I’ve tried Quechuas (different models) with weights, etc., and they were really uncomfortable for me (no need to go into details, that’s not the point). The salesperson even half-admitted that their best product would only be good for a use like mine.

For me, lightness isn’t a priority. Sure, it’s important, but don’t forget the bag will travel in the hold or in a bus trunk. During the day, it’ll stay at the guesthouse.

Really? How can you know how I plan to organize myself? Anyway, what you said above doesn’t apply to me.

Another priority you didn’t mention is practicality, especially the openings. Mine, for example, can open from the top but also has a double zipper that lets you open it along its entire length. The two zippers meet, so I can put a lock on it and secure everything when it’s not right next to me.

That’s normal—it’s not one of my priorities. Everyone has unique needs. All the backpacks I’ve tried have the pockets and zippers you mentioned.

I know I’m direct, but don’t take it the wrong way. I’m just trying to be as clear as possible, and I’m looking for very specific advice. I’ve already done quite a bit of research on the forum where all the "basic tips" are covered. Thanks !
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
JO Jopops06 ·
Hi,

All of this interests me a lot because I'm leaving for a round-the-world trip in September 2012, and I'm also right in the middle of preparations and backpack choices. I was looking at this brand but more specifically the Atmos 50 model. Have you tested it?

http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_atmos_50&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 http://www.sports-aventure.fr/boutique/fiche_produit.cfm?ref=osprey_atmos_50_12&type=131&code_lg=lg_fr&num=2 (latest version, more expensive)

Thanks in advance! Laurence
MA Marie31 Globetrotter ·
Great backpack! We own 2 of them (and soon 3—my future birthday gift, an Exos 🙂🙂). My husband has the Atmos (first link). We do a lot of hiking with them, and we took them on a long trip, but more as a secondary bag because with 5 people, it was a bit too small for all the gear 😛. When it’s not fully loaded (with the top pocket tucked in), it even fits as carry-on luggage. They’re sturdy and lightweight.

To try them "loaded," check out Vieux Campeur if there’s one near you.

Some brands are more or less comfortable.
KI Kitty2222 ·
Atmos is a very good model, but it's actually the men's version of the Aura model (designed for women). That's why I only tried the Aura and Exos models (more unisex) from Osprey. But honestly, I think it obviously depends on our build!

The nearest Vieux Campeur from my place is in Toulouse (I live in Bordeaux), but I might go check it out. I'd love to! There's a store in Bordeaux (Sport Aventure), kind of a "mini Vieux Campeur" :)

Marie, since you have Ospreys, I'd love to know: have you tried the Aura or just the Exos? Given my build (1.60m and 50kg), do you have any advice on these models? (I heard you shouldn't be too small and slim for Osprey, but that was just something I read on another forum—I don’t know more...) Just so you know, these backpacks come in three sizes (S, M, and L).
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
JO Jopops06 ·
Thanks so much for all this info!

I hadn’t even realized that some models are designed for men or women! Guess I’ll keep trying them on! !
MA Marie31 Globetrotter ·
After many tries (all the models displayed at Vieux Camp in Toulouse!!) I prefer the Atmos, but I'm 1.68m and 60 kg 😉 Then again, this is just my personal feeling.

I went for a size M.

Personally, whether it's a men's or women's model, I don't really care—the important thing for me is whether it's comfortable or not (so it's better to try it with something in the bag). Lightweight Durable (but there's a trade-off with weight) Practical (I like when the top pocket can be raised, and I don't like side pockets that stick out too much because I want to be able to fit my sleeping mat or part of the tent on the side) The price (but for the Exos, I'll buy it in the US 😛 since my husband just left for work there)
KI Kitty2222 ·
Here I am again to wrap up! 🙂

In the end, I went with another brand: http://www.kite-tek.com/deuter-act-lite-45-10sl-pine-moss-2012-deuter, fr,4,2TACTL45SLPM.cfm

A Deuter ACT LITE 45 + 10 SL WOMAN backpack.

A trusted brand, guaranteed comfort, and top-notch quality (no, I’m not a Deuter sales rep 😉).

Still, Deuter and Osprey are two brands that are pretty close in terms of quality and lightweight performance. I’d say it ultimately comes down to personal preference—your body type, needs, selection criteria, and habits.

This pack’s gonna be with me for a year around the world… full review when I’m back!
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
MO Morice55 Regular ·
Oh, another little tip—don’t leave with your backpack stuffed to the brim. Leave some space for fruits and veggies you’ll pick up along the way, plus food and water you’ll buy during the day for the evening or even for the week when you’re in areas with no grocery stores for miles around. It’s a small detail, but you’ll see—it’s important..

And as for the K-way cover over your backpack, it’s not 100% effective. I’d recommend waterproof liners to put *inside* your backpack instead.. Also, pack a good water bottle with Micropur tablets—plastic bottles are gross in hot countries, and the water will taste like petrol ;)

Hope all this helps, and I wish you an amazing trip! If you pass by Réunion Island, stop by and say hi—I’ll make you a delicious carry 😉
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMC6knYPrUI
KI Kitty2222 ·
Thanks Morice! Sure enough, I’ve planned at least 5–10 liters of extra space for daily essentials (mostly food + odds and ends).

Unfortunately, I’m not stopping by Réunion Island ... 🙁 but it’s only postponed—it’s just so tempting! People always tell me the natural parks there are fantastic. And food-wise, I’d be thrilled since I’m a huge fan of island cuisine 😉
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
OR OrSiouxsie Regular ·
Hi Audrey,

How’s the Deuter ACT Lite 45+10 SL working out for you in practice?

I’m also heading off for a year and I’m looking for a backpack that’s both sturdy and lightweight. I’m torn between two models you mentioned: - Deuter ACT Lite 45+10 SL - Osprey Aura 50 They’re pretty much the same in terms of price (150 €) and weight (1.5 kg), but I’ve heard several times that Deuter is more durable. So far, I’ve only tried the Osprey when it was loaded (8 kg), and it was really comfortable, but I can’t compare it to anything else.

Thanks in advance if you get a chance to share your thoughts on the Deuter! 🙂 !
KI Kitty2222 ·
I've been traveling with it for a month now and I'm really happy with it. It's sturdy and lightweight, but I can't tell yet if it'll last the full 12 months I've planned.

There are lighter options, but you shouldn’t compromise on quality. Between the two models you mentioned, you can’t go wrong with either choice ;)
Seuls ceux qui iront au bout sauront jusqu'où il est possible d'aller

http://my-bubbles-world.fr
OR OrSiouxsie Regular ·
Thanks so much for your reply, Audrey! According to a salesperson, the Osprey can handle lighter loads (8 kg) than the Deuter (12 kg).

And what a beautiful project you have, by the way 🙂, safe travels!
AN Anto6969 ·
I recently bought a backpack for my travels—lots of pockets, pretty big, and can easily hold 8–10 kg. It has a solid back and is quite lightweight despite being made of leather. Unlike fabric, it’s much more durable. https://www.commergo.com/3242-large_default/sac-a-dos-en-cuir-edison.jpg

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