Backpacks-Tips and Suggestions on Backpacks for Europe. Eagle Creek 2002 packs and more!
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Take it from me...

Like I said earlier...a good pack is worth a million dollars when you are tired, hungry and lost.

Sounds like I know what I'm talking about? Yep-it's true. I was one of those who decided to take the cheap way out and buy a no name, not as expensive pack.

I know, I know...I should have know better.

My boyfriend, on the other hand, bought an Eagle Creek that was a bit more expensive.

At the end of our 7 month trip, I was on my second pack as the whole harness had peeled away from the pack-making the shoulder straps useless.
(Obviously when you are using a pack, shoulder straps are an important feature!)

My boyfriend's pack looked good as new and throughout all the strain and travel, had no signs of wear. His fit better and when I was gritting my teeth with the pain my cheaply made pack caused-his was fitted right to his back, with thick padded straps and waist belt.

And, even if he had of had problems, Eagle Creek packs have a life time warrenty.

How can you go wrong?

The lesson here?

Buy it right the first time-or it will be you gritting your teeth, wishing you had taken this advice.

Helpful Articles

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Backpack Fit Guide

Finding the Right Backpack

Backpack Layout

Packs for Women

Backpack Checklist

Backpack Across Europe Using Hostels

Backpack Guide

Choosing a backpack is one of the most important steps in planning your trip to Europe. If it doesn't fit right or just isn't comfortable, it can really slow you down.

There are some things you can cheap out on but trust me, it is worth every cent to get a pack that fits you properly.

Go here to print this list on how to choose a pack.

When choosing your pack, keep these things in mind:

Size

  • How long are you going for?
  • How much are you planning on packing?
Seasons
  • When are you going?
  • You might need a slightly bigger pack if you are carrying winter clothes or a sleeping bag.
Daypack
  • Are you interested in a pack that has a removable daypack?
    (I strongly suggest this)
Compartments
  • Are they easy to get into?
  • Can you lock the zippers?
  • Note-too many outer pockets can throw the weight of your pack off-not a good thing!
Material
  • What is it made of?
  • Is it water resistant or can it be treated so it is water resistant?
Waist Belt
  • Is the waist belt comfortable? (Don't buy one without a waist belt-80% of the weight sits on your hips)
  • Does it sit right on your hips?
  • Would a woman's fit pack sit better for you?
Chest/Sternum Buckle
  • Does it have one?
Loading
  • Is it top loading or panel loading?
  • Top loading loads everything from a top pocket while panel loading loads from (usually) a large zippered pocket on one side.
  • Will it load evenly to distribute the weight? (Panel loading is better for this)
Warrenty
  • Does it come with one?
  • What does it cover?

If you aren't certain about a pack, ask the sales clerk at the store to put some weight in it for you.

Often they have weights or sandbacks they can put inside to give you a more realistic feeling.


Eagle Creek 2002 Line

Eagle Creek Packs

Eagle Creek Matrix Tungsten
Eagle Creek Matrix Tungsten

Capacity: 2,100 cu. inches.

Dimensions: 13" x 19" x 8.5".

Weight: 2 lbs. 5 oz.

Available in black, pine, red hot and navy.

Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek Global Travel Pack 50L
Eagle Creek Global Travel Pack 50L

Capacity: 3,100 cu. inches.

Dimensions: 26" x 15.5" x 9".

Weight: 4 lbs. 7 oz.

Available in black, brick, and pine.

Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek Global Travel Pack 65L Expandable
Eagle Creek Global Travel Pack 65L

Capacity: 3,850 cu. inches.

Dimensions: 28" x 16" x 10".

Weight: 5 lbs.

Available in black, brick, and pine.

Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek Independent Journey
Eagle Creek Independent Journey

Capacity: 3,900 cu. inches. (4,450 expanded).

Dimensions: 23.5" x 15" x 11".

Weight: 5 lbs. 6 oz.

Available in black and forest.
Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek Continental Journey
Eagle Creek Continental Journey

Capacity: 3,900 cu. inches. Daypack 1,200 c.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9".

Weight: 4 lbs. 7 oz.

Available in black, brick, and forest.

Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek Switchback Plus - Large
Eagle Creek Switchback Plus - Large

Capacity: 4,250 cu. inches. Daypack 900 c.

Dimensions: 14" x 26" x 9"

Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz.

Available in black, brick, and forest.


Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek New World Journey - Women's Fit
Eagle Creek New World Journey - Women's Fit

Capacity: 4,800 cu. inches. Daypack 1,200 c.

Dimensions: 17" x 28" x 10"

Weight: 6 lbs. 3 oz

Available in black and brick.
Purchase/More Info

Eagle Creek New World Journey
Eagle Creek New World Journey

Capacity: 5,000 cu. inches. Daypack 1,200 c.

Dimensions: 27.5" x 16.5" x 11"

Weight: 6 lbs. 8 oz

Available in black and forest.

Purchase/More Info

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