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Packs should fit correctly. All the weight
needs to be on your hips and not on your shoulders. Gear Experts at
local outdoor stores can help fit a pack to your body type. Pay close
attention to torso sizes of packs. Many internal frame packs will have
adjustable torso lengths, but make sure that you fit into the range in
which the pack adjusts.
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Always try on your pack. If you want to get a
good deal, go to a local store and try on the pack, write down all the
information, and look it up online. Great deals can be found online but
you need to make sure the pack your purchase fits correctly first. We
have special WR discounts with both Backcountry.com and Sawyer Products.
If you find your gear on either of those sites, call us in the office
for info on those discounts.
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Some handy features that you should look for
in a backpack include a sleeping bag compartment and a front-loading
panel.
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Packs are measured by how much they will
hold. Some pack companies measure in cubic inches while others measure
in liters. Packs that hold over 5,000 cu in will probably be too big for
most women. Guys can use a pack that large but it isn’t necessarily
recommended. If you have space you will use it. In order to keep your
pack at a decent weight and keep it comfortable to carry, get a pack
between 4,200 and 5,000 cu in. Packs under 3,500 probably will not
suffice. On most gear sites the packs that fit a World Racer’s needs are
labeled as “Week-Long” packs.
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You probably will not need a rain cover for
your pack. It would be a rare occasion that you are caught carrying your
pack in a downpour. It’s not out of the question, but it is definitely
not commonplace.
Consider buying a “pack duffle” or an
“Airporter.” This is a giant duffle that protects your backpack when you
check it for flights. This is not required but could prolong the life
of your pack and protect the important buckles and straps. Some people
have had these bags made.
when you are packing that you will have to abide by the baggage weight
restrictions imposed by the airlines.
Daypacks:
Along with your large backpack, you’ll need a daypack. This is a
regular sized school pack. You do not need a large daypack. If you have a
large one, it will be full and heavy. Inside, you can put some of your
electronics and books. Keep your valuables in your daypack when you
travel. When you are in-country you will probably take this pack with
you on short-hikes, trips into town, and on ministry outings. Again, a
large daypack will be extremely cumbersome for these purposes.
