checking backpack

[gypsywind]

I am getting close enough to worry about traveling to camino. I know my backpack specs are big, but it is so light ( I hope I will still think that walking into Santiago), does anyone carry their pack onto the plane? also, if checked, my pack cover does not cover my hip belt, does all those hanging straps cause problems?

 

[Wokabaut_Meri]

I am getting close enough to worry about traveling to camino. I know my backpack specs are big, but it is so light ( I hope I will still think that walking into Santiago), does anyone carry their pack onto the plane? also, if checked, my pack cover does not cover my hip belt, does all those hanging straps cause problems?

Have taken my packs as carryon all over the world. There are lots of ways of transporting them but I usually fasten the hip belt around the front of the pack and do the same with the shoulder straps. If going as checked baggage either do the same or if you are worried about the straps (and ensuring security of your pack, I know I am!) once again the Forum provides: how to prepare backpack for flight?

Oh and try to enjoy your preparation a little more and worry a little less... most questions can be answered by the collective wisdom of the forum just try a search in the top right corner of the page The forum really helped me with my preparation and all the questions that bubbled up.

Buen Camino!

 

[Deleted member 43985]

While not available in every airport, you often find the plastic wrapping service to keep things tight and safe. Alternatively, I have an Osprey Airporter that I put my gear into. I normally use that when I'm checking my pack but can also be used for carry-on to keep unruly straps under control! One note is if you're planning to take trekking poles you likely will have issues trying to carry on.
Buen Camino
Jordon

 

[movinmaggie]

Hi GW. I had an Osprey with a built-in rain protector. I wrapped it around all the straps including the hip belt and it was perfect. Walkabout_Meri is right...don't worry too much. You must be very excited though. Buen Camino.

 

[mla1]

I usually carry my pack on the plane when I am on my way to go walking and then I check it when I am on the way home.
When checking the pack, I just do up the hip belt and the chest strap, and pull all the straps down as tightly as possible and tie off any loose ends.
I never thought to use the raincover. That's a good idea if you can make it tight enough to stay on.

Buen camino.

 

[movinmaggie]

I usually carry my pack on the plane when I am on my way to go walking and then I check it when I am on the way home.
When checking the pack, I just do up the hip belt and the chest strap, and pull all the straps down as tightly as possible and tie off any loose ends.
I never thought to use the raincover. That's a good idea if you can make it tight enough to stay on.

Buen camino.

Mine had the elasticized drawstring which was very strong and never loosened once. I only thought of it last minute , after pondering for days about what would work best.

 

[C clearly]

Carry your backpack on the plane, but reduce the bulk first by checking a small disposable bag/package with your sleeping bag, walking sticks and any sharp items. That way you will have your most important items on board with you, and the backpack straps won't be an issue.

 

[jmcarp]

My wife and I carried our backpacks onto the airplane. Both slightly exceeded the airline's published carry-on size limit (my pack was an Osprey Kestral 38 and my wife's was an REI Lookout 40). We reduced the size by carrying a few essential items in very small, lightweight daypacks (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Outdoor-Products-221681/19487073) that compress down to the size of a large orange (fruit) and are easily stored in the bottom of our main packs as we walked the Camino. The little daypacks were useful for shopping and evening activities along the way and when sight-seeing in the major cities along the Camino. By taking raingear, toiletries, and a change of underwear and socks from our large packs and carrying them in the daypacks, we were able to compress them down to meet the carry-on regulations. We did, however, place our trekking poles, Swiss army knife, and liquid toiletries in a cardboard shipping tube that was checked. We figured if those items were lost by the airline they could be easily replaced in Spain.

 

[Angie94]

Mine had the elasticized drawstring which was very strong and never loosened once. I only thought of it last minute , after pondering for days about what would work best.

what kind do you have? I think I have changed my mind about checking my backpack and may just check my poles and a few other things and take my backpack on board...I like the idea of using the rain cover over the pack.

 

[Angie94]

never mind Maggie...I scrolled up further and saw where you posted what you used. Thanks!

 

[julia-t]

And if you take a couple of metres of paracord (alternative use = clothes-drying line) you can wind this round your rain-covered pack to keep it all together.

 

[november_moon]

My pack is well within the carry-on limits for flights, so I carry it on. Last Camino, my husband's pack was too large, so he checked it. He has a transport sack for his pack and just put it in that with our poles. It was fine. This time around though, he is getting a new pack and choosing one specifically to ensure it is within the carry on limits for the flights.

 

[Rob the Slob]

Here's a question for anyone whose backpack has a mesh back support like Osprey's airflow or AG suspension systems: do they survive being carried as checked luggage? This is perhaps the most important part of the pack, but also the part that's most susceptible to being squashed or torn.

 

[t2andreo]

My easy solution is to buy a bright-colored nylon or polyester laundry bag in the local "dollar store." I actually did for last year's Camino...for one USD. I have also used a ten dollar bag I bought in a local WalMart on earlier trips. On comparison the primary difference was the cost and color.

I first secured all the rucksack straps so they would not move around, using several very large rubber bands (from the office supply store). I also secured my collapsed hiking poles to one side of the rucksack using the rucksack straps. The rucksack is taller than the poles, so that worked well.

This "assembly" was inserted to the laundry bag. I cinched the pull cord using a spring-operated, push-button, plastic toggle fastener I had around the house, attached a luggage ID tag to the cord, then double-tied the pull cord. All the excess cord was careful tucked into the tiny opening of the bag. At this point, if you are at the airport and desire to toss any last minute items like outer wear you will not wear enroute, just toss it into the bag.

I then simply dumped the rucksack-in-a-sack at airline check-in. All my valuables, documents, medications, and electronics went on board with me. Easy peasy...no problems. The brighter the laundry bag, the easier you will spot it coming off the conveyor at your destination. Trust me, despite what the airlines advise, your bag will NOT look like any others.

As soon as I have my checked bag on arrival, and before I depart the baggage reclaim area, I untie the knots, remove the rucksack, and fold the bag. The now, very small laundry bag easily goes into the rain cover pouch already built into my rucksack. To make it easier to do, I stand my rucksack upside down so the weight is off the bottom rain cover compartment.

The freed rucksack goes on my back and we are off to the races...so to speak.

I hope this complete description helps. I have practiced with it and have used it on other, non-Camino overseas trips and it works brilliantly.

 

[movinmaggie]

My wife and I carried our backpacks onto the airplane. Both slightly exceeded the airline's published carry-on size limit (my pack was an Osprey Kestral 38 and my wife's was an REI Lookout 40). We reduced the size by carrying a few essential items in very small, lightweight daypacks (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Outdoor-Products-221681/19487073) that compress down to the size of a large orange (fruit) and are easily stored in the bottom of our main packs as we walked the Camino. The little daypacks were useful for shopping and evening activities along the way and when sight-seeing in the major cities along the Camino. By taking raingear, toiletries, and a change of underwear and socks from our large packs and carrying them in the daypacks, we were able to compress them down to meet the carry-on regulations. We did, however, place our trekking poles, Swiss army knife, and liquid toiletries in a cardboard shipping tube that was checked. We figured if those items were lost by the airline they could be easily replaced in Spain.

Mine was a 36L Osprey Kyte. It was a very comfortable fit; and I still and had some space to spare.

 

[Angie94]

This "assembly" was inserted to the laundry bag. I cinched the pull cord using a spring-operated, push-button, plastic toggle fastener I had around the house, attached a luggage ID tag to the cord, then double-tied the pull cord. All the excess cord was careful tucked into the tiny opening of the bag. At this point, if you are at the airport and desire to toss any last minute items like outer wear you will not wear enroute, just toss it into the bag.

I then simply dumped the rucksack-in-a-sack at airline check-in. All my valuables, documents, medications, and electronics went on board with me. Easy peasy...no problems.

this sounds like a good plan, I guess my concern at this point is "lost luggage". I know the odds are not that great of it happening, but it does happen and I have invested considerable research, time and effort in getting my gear together (considering I had to start from absolute scratch as I knew nothing of all the many things people have talked about on here - I know it could replace it all once arriving in Spain, but would rather not!) hmmmm...which way to go - checked bag or carry it on.

 

[movinmaggie]

this sounds like a good plan, I guess my concern at this point is "lost luggage". I know the odds are not that great of it happening, but it does happen and I have invested considerable research, time and effort in getting my gear together (considering I had to start from absolute scratch as I knew nothing of all the many things people have talked about on here - I know it could replace it all once arriving in Spain, but would rather not!) hmmmm...which way to go - checked bag or carry it on. [/QUOTE
Personally Angie, I never check anything. I have learned over the years and a few experiences with bags that didn't show up, to just pack enough for a carryon, with only one exception…when I go to India, I take lots of supplies for the kids. If your trip is for the Camino only, could you not not get by with just your backpack? Now walking poles is another issue. Many airlines do not permit them in the cabin, so no choice but to check them. I bought my poles in St. Jean, but as it turned out, they ended up 'walking away' and I ended up with a gifted one pole and was so glad I did because I discovered I prefer just one pole and often, no poles, but I don't want to start that debate again. It all comes down to personal choice. Keep those spirits high….you'll be fine. Lucky you!!

 

[Angie94]

thanks Maggie, I believe I have decided to carry my backpack on and check my poles and a few other items - if they don't show up, no big deal. Thanks for your help! I am looking forward to this journey so much.

 

[t2andreo]

Sounds like a good plan to me. Buen Camino...

 

[sunwanderer]

When I bought my equipment at REI, they said that foldable poles that fit in a backpack usually go through security OK. I checked the TSA website, but it stated that all poles need to be in checked luggage.

I bought a cardboard mailing tube about 4 inches in diameter (just big enough to hold all 4 of our poles), slid the poles in, and then attached the tube to the straps at the bottom of the backpack. I figured if security wouldn't allow them through, I could always check just the tube and take everything else as carry-on.

It worked fine. They wanted a closer look at some of the stuff in my pockets, but ignored the tube. So, last Sept. the tube with the poles went carry-on round trip and I didn't have to check anything.

 

[Urban Trekker]

I am getting close enough to worry about traveling to camino. I know my backpack specs are big, but it is so light ( I hope I will still think that walking into Santiago), does anyone carry their pack onto the plane? also, if checked, my pack cover does not cover my hip belt, does all those hanging straps cause problems?

I'm making a ripstop nylon stuff sack to put my pack in for check in. Drew string closure and a carry strap. It will fit in the bottom of my pack when not in use or I can use it as a pack liner. Buen Camino

Happy Trails

 

[Wokabaut_Meri]

what kind do you have? I think I have changed my mind about checking my backpack and may just check my poles and a few other things and take my backpack on board...I like the idea of using the rain cover over the pack.

I got a ZPacks cuben fibre pack cover to test on the Camino and really gave it a workout to see how it would hold up. It's incredibly light - 1.2oz/34gms for a medium size - and proved to be very tough. Details on the ZPacks website.

 

[gypsywind]

Carry your backpack on the plane, but reduce the bulk first by checking a small disposable bag/package with your sleeping bag, walking sticks and any sharp items. That way you will have your most important items on board with you, and the backpack straps won't be an issue.

that small checked bag is a good idea, thanks

 

[Anniesantiago]

It's amazing how much gear I can stuff into my Macabi skirt pockets.
That and a small carry-on daypack makes my larger pack fit just fine for carryon.
I've known of several people who arrived in Spain without their checked packs, creating quite a bit of drama.
I'll never check my pack.

 

[peregrina2000]

When I bought my equipment at REI, they said that foldable poles that fit in a backpack usually go through security OK. I checked the TSA website, but it stated that all poles need to be in checked luggage.

I bought a cardboard mailing tube about 4 inches in diameter (just big enough to hold all 4 of our poles), slid the poles in, and then attached the tube to the straps at the bottom of the backpack. I figured if security wouldn't allow them through, I could always check just the tube and take everything else as carry-on.

It worked fine. They wanted a closer look at some of the stuff in my pockets, but ignored the tube. So, last Sept. the tube with the poles went carry-on round trip and I didn't have to check anything.

Hi, sunwanderer, I also carry on my poles every year and have never had a problem at any TSA in any US airport. But I have two questions -- how did the tube get from the start of your camino to the end of your camino? And, are you saying that you were able to carry on poles at the Santiago airport? That is reported to be the black hole where all unchecked hiking poles go to die.

buen camino, Laurie

p.s. Just like my pal annie, I would never ever check my backpack.

 

[Sailor]

Good conversation! Thanks everyone for all the good inputs. Senior Trekker, I like your good idea [nylon stuff sack]. I plan to hand-carry the backpack and check the poles, knife, and other [non-TSA-friendly] items, and hope for the best. Again, thanks everyone. Que Dios Te Bendiga (God Bless You).

 

[Brendan Dawson]

I recently presented the contents of my Backpack to a meeting of the Charlotte NC afficionados of the Camino Santiago. Dr. Bob Barret asked me to commit the contents to paper. I reproduce them here with the hope that this might be of some assistance to a future Pilgrim.

I have walked the Camino Frances each of the last two years. It is important to note that my walks have been in May/June and September.

Remember, what you carry is a VERY individual choice. There is no "right" way or "wrong" way....there is only your way!!!

First, it is important to note that almost all my equipment is from REI....I don't work for them in any capacity, but I have found them to be a reliable source, with an excellent "return" policy, i.e., I have bought and returned 5 different pairs of boots over the last three years...no questions asked!

Osprey Backpack airline Bag...to check in and ship backpack and sticks on my way over. I also carried a flattened small box to pack this in and mail to Post Office at back end. PO to PO works great anywhere along the route. PO will hold your item for a reasonable amount of time. They say 30 days but really no problem. You can also mail any items directly to Ivar in Santiago. He has a price schedule somewhere on the forum. I have used both!

Osprey Exos 58 liter backpack.....personal preference. Most folks do not require more than 40 liter (very important.....make sure that you have the right size, determined by the length of your back)....any outfitter should be able to measure you (S-M-L).
Raingear....either the all-inclusive "Apacka" Poncho or Rainjacket/pants and backpack cover.
Refillable water bottle or Water Bladder....When filled, both will weigh about the same.....I found that water in the bladder got warmer sooner!
70 Liter dry bag.....that I used as a backpack liner.....worked very well but so do plastic garbage bags.
Very light weight running shoes, (10 oz...used at end of day, also for showering, perhaps even as a change of pace on the trail (not with my ankles.)

Hiking Boots or shoes...Hi-Lo_Mid...mine are Salomon Mid...for the ankle support. I also have Montrail Mid. Completely up to you but be sure to wear them on a couple of long walks before you go to the Camino...some folks wear Sandals! Suggestion from Camino Forum...Wear 1 full size larger, it made a difference in comfort late in the walk.
3 pairs of wash/wear underwear.....wear one, pack two
3 pairs of "Wright" socks...two ply...no need for a liner...wear one, pack two.
2 very light weight wash/wear long sleeve shirts
1 wash/wear tee shirt.......You may want to buy a souvenir tee shirt along the way!
1 Merino wool tee shirt....not absolutely necessary but does keep you warm even when wet.
1 pair of wash/wear hiking shorts
1 pair of convertible long pants...zip off shorts...also wash/wear
1 pair of long trousers...travel to and fro...maybe some evenings
1 Fleece shirt...I chose very light weight....personal preference....if you go rain jacket, slightly heavier may be a better choice
1 first aid kit...usual distribution.....Ibuprofen, bandaids, first aid cream, sterile pads, tweezers, etc. remember duct tape. I also had my Doc prescribe a Z-pac just in case I got a cold.....still carrying it!
1 Sea to Summit "Coolmax" fabric ADAPTOR insect shield....used instead of a sleeping bag. Most Albergues and Pensiones will supply a clean (or sterile) sheet and pillow. In warm weather, this was sufficient.....Occasionally asked for a blanket but felt insect proof in this.
1 COCOON Mummy Bag liner....100% silk, used inside ADAPTOR
1 Bivy Sack....no weight but...to be sure to be sure!
1 toiletry bag...contents: "Wilderness Wash" for clothes...Body Glide (anti-chafe), Hair Brush, comb, toothbrush, paste, soap, razor, clothespins, cord, sink stopper....you may find a Plastic carabiner to be worthwhile for hanging bag and valuables.
1 Packtowel, Medium
1 Hat...with brim...you are walking north to south so sun is usually on your left (unless you walk all day....small tube of sunscreen works...I bought it on the trail.
1 Universal electrical adaptor with USB plug and appropriate charging wires.
1 international "BLU" phone....very small for calling ahead for reservations....35 cents/min
1 Ipad Mini....for picture taking, guide books, Kindle books,FACETIME and SKYPE.....WiFi is ubiquitous!
1 Buff
1 Knife....your choice....I carried OPINEL with corkscrew
1 Spork....for snacks and shared meals
1 emergency match
1 small bottle of water purifier..."Potable Water" Plus......really not needed, water is good everywhere
1....under your clothes money holder.....Around your waist or around your neck.....ALWAYS take to shower with your toiletries
1 small light.....if you are walking super early, you will need a headlamp....I didn't!
1 extra glasses.....I didn't use sunglasses as sun was always somewhat behind me
1 Zpacks.com pack that I connected to my Backpack and wore on my chest. In it I carried 30-40 Euros. My Credit Cards in a tamper proof holder. My passport, My Pilgrim Credential, My I-Pad Mini and my maps turned to that day
1 pair of Hiking sticks.....Used Leki adjustable poles on my 1st trip and Pacer Poles (UK Website) on 2nd. Both excellent and worthwhile.
1 extra set of rubber Tips for walking sticks.
1 waterproof plastic bag to hold copies of your travel docs Passport and pictures of your credit cards.....keep it at the bottom or back of your backpack. I put it in the space designed for the water bladder. VERY IMPORTANT!!!

Other things to consider (but I did not use) Sleeping Bag, Seal skin rain gloves, Gaiters, compact Therma-Rest mattress, Bed Bug Patrol Luggage Spray, Bed Bug repellant sheet.

I did spray all my walking gear, Pants, shirts and Backpack with Sawyers anti insect spray Permethrin.....supposedly repels all insects, even bed bugs, Who Knows?? Do not spray while wearing nor on your skin.

My total pack weight (without water or snacks) was just over 15 Lbs. Rule of Thumb is 1/10th of your body weight. I am 180 and pack was non issue!

Buen Camino,
Brendan

 

[movinmaggie]

Fantastic information Brendan….much time and work and much appreciated. I believe REI is only in the U.S. We have the equivalent here in British Columbia - MEC (Mountain Equipment Coop) also with generous return options. But we are only two countries of what I do believe were over 100 countries that passed through the Camino last year. I've already made a couple of notes from this.

 

[Brendan Dawson]

Fantastic information Brendan….much time and work and much appreciated. I believe REI is only in the U.S. We have the equivalent here in British Columbia - MEC (Mountain Equipment Coop) also with generous return options. But we are only two countries of what I do believe were over 100 countries that passed through the Camino last year. I've already made a couple of notes from this.

As was appropriately pointed out REI (recreational equipment Inc) is a US outfit, apologies !
I did notice that I left out a small scoop and toilet paper. Yes, I had them! Either bury used or pack out the merely wet (ladies take note)

 

[Deleted member 43985]

Here's a question for anyone whose backpack has a mesh back support like Osprey's airflow or AG suspension systems: do they survive being carried as checked luggage? This is perhaps the most important part of the pack, but also the part that's most susceptible to being squashed or torn.

I checked an Atmos 50L with Airspeed and an Atmos AG 50L and had no issue with either however I did have them inside an Osprey Airporter mostly to keep the straps et al contained.

 

[Brendan Dawson]

I checked an Atmos 50L with Airspeed and an Atmos AG 50L and had no issue with either however I did have them inside an Osprey Airporter mostly to keep the straps et al contained.

I checked my Osprey 58L Exos,also inside an air porter. No problem.
First year, I used a very large dry bag to hold my backpack.....worked fine.
I don't think that I would check the backpack unless it was inside "something" !

 

[zagato]

Greetings,
I purchased a FRAKTA storage bag from IKEA for $2.99. My Deuter ACT Trail 40 fits with plenty of room to spare. When not in use it folds flat and I store it in the water bladder compartment. Here's a link:
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90149148/?query=901.491.48
Buen Camino,
Daniel

 

[Pamb]

I checked an Atmos 50L with Airspeed and an Atmos AG 50L and had no issue with either however I did have them inside an Osprey Airporter mostly to keep the straps et al contained.

I'm considering buying a new pack. I've used Oneplanet WBA on my last 2 caminos, which has a fantastic harness, but I want a bit more versatility with packing. How did you find the Osprey Airspeed harness compared to the AG?

 

[Deleted member 43985]

I'm considering buying a new pack. I've used Oneplanet WBA on my last 2 caminos, which has a fantastic harness, but I want a bit more versatility with packing. How did you find the Osprey Airspeed harness compared to the AG?

AG is incredibly comfortable and in cold temperatures keeps my back very warm. I haven't used it in really warm temps yet but fear it may be too conforming and get the sweat rolling but that's where I think I'll revert back to the Airspeed. The other really noticeable difference is how the kidney belt actively grabs you with the AG. So far really happy to have the AG but will keep the Airspeed for warmer weather I think. The other new feature on the AG that I quite like is the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom with separate zipper. Not a huge feature for the Camino unless you're a Night Pilgrim and want to load the rest of your bag before going to be and then just slipping your bag in the bottom of the pack quietly as you get up. Also regarding versatility, was sad to see the waterproof pockets didn't make the cut for the AG. I used to put my wet rain gear, gators, gloves, etc in those pockets and found them pretty handy. Now I just cinch them down on the daisy chain or tool holders but not a fan of items swinging around the outside of my pack.

 

[Pamb]

AG is incredibly comfortable and in cold temperatures keeps my back very warm. I haven't used it in really warm temps yet but fear it may be too conforming and get the sweat rolling but that's where I think I'll revert back to the Airspeed. The other really noticeable difference is how the kidney belt actively grabs you with the AG. So far really happy to have the AG but will keep the Airspeed for warmer weather I think. The other new feature on the AG that I quite like is the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom with separate zipper. Not a huge feature for the Camino unless you're a Night Pilgrim and want to load the rest of your bag before going to be and then just slipping your bag in the bottom of the pack quietly as you get up. Also regarding versatility, was sad to see the waterproof pockets didn't make the cut for the AG. I used to put my wet rain gear, gators, gloves, etc in those pockets and found them pretty handy. Now I just cinch them down on the daisy chain or tool holders but not a fan of items swinging around the outside of my pack.

Thanks for that. More food for thought. I found with my WBA that I was drenched under my poncho (altus) because I had no ventilation between my pack and my back, whereas my walking partner did not experience this. And I am not normally a hot body person. I like the idea of a sleeping bag compartment and note that the Sirrus has this with the Airspeed.

 

[Maxie]

I carried a Deuter 36 pro last year(1.8Kg empty, nice bag and a good carry but heavy) . I use poles so needed to check my pack, put pack in a cheap bag worked for me no probs. Ordered a Zpacks 62 Arc blast when I arrived home .Only weighs 586g , very well made but pricey will be putting this one in a cheap bag as well .

 

[Rob the Slob]

My wife has graciously agreed to accompany me to Madrid to see me off. So she'll take a suitcase and I'll put my Osprey Atmos AG50 in it with all my gear. We'll spend a few days in Madrid, then I'll pack my rucksack and hit the road and she'll pack everything she's bought into her suitcase and head home.

 

[Walkin' Man]

I am getting close enough to worry about traveling to camino. I know my backpack specs are big, but it is so light ( I hope I will still think that walking into Santiago), does anyone carry their pack onto the plane? also, if checked, my pack cover does not cover my hip belt, does all those hanging straps cause problems?

The rain cover works well if you just put on backwards - that way it covers the straps. It you check it, I'd recommend wrapping a strap or two around the pack so the cover doesn't come off.

 

[gypsywind]

The rain cover works well if you just put on backwards - that way it covers the straps. It you check it, I'd recommend wrapping a strap or two around the pack so the cover doesn't come off.

Thanks for that, I am still torn, as really rare it might be to loose my pack, I also want to save the time in the airports waiting for luggage before off to Customs & Immigration

 

[alipilgrim]

Last time I checked my backpack, I wrapped it up in a garbage bag with lots of packing tape. Note: make a handle of packing tape so you can carry it as needed. Straps will be secure and no pesky bag handler can snoop inside your bag! On the arrival end the only slight issue was to find car rental counter or info booth after exiting Customs to find some scissors to cut free the backpack. Carry a 2nd bag inside your pack - use as an interior drybag, or a bag to put pack in if albergue floor is dirty or if you worry about bedbugs, use as a sitting cloth on wet/dry ground, whatever. Then you'll have another bag at the end to wrap the pack back up in for the flight home. Just need to borrow or buy some tape at the end!