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I have been very interested in the Packa- it is easy to put on because you leave it on your pack like a pack cover. Then you can pull the arms and hood out from it easily if it starts to rain.
However, my pack is 30 liters and the maker of the Packa advised me that 32 liters is the smallest...
I just noticed the link was for a 2 pack of the Matador Flat Pack, at REl it's only $14, not $28
https://www.rei.com/product/204290/matador-flatpak-soap-bar-case
It's not cheap but if it saves shampoo and mess it's worth it to me.
I use the Matador flatpack soap bar case- it really does work! I keep a small piece of shampoo bar, conditioner, and body soap in it. They last a long time. You can buy it from Matador or REI.
https://www.rei.com/product/204290/matador-flatpak-soap-bar-case
cheaper at REI...
FYI I tried the GG Kumo last year but found the shoulder straps to be uncomfortable. My upper arms rubbed when I walked. That was a deal breaker for me. I settled on an Osprey because of the comfort. In the long run, that was more important to me than the weight. The Osprey Tempest Pro 28 was...
We walked from Vila de Conde to Rates last April, following the Aqueduct route. Much nicer than the route that goes to Arcos. It's a bit tricky to find but starts up a hill and some steps on the right soon after the bridge. It does follow the Aqueduct for a long portion. The yellow arrows...
I had part of my right knee meniscus removed 10 years ago. Similar to you, it was pretty painful before. The pain went away immediately. The surgeon told my husband I'd need a knee replacement next time. But I lost some weight, did PT, walked, did strength training, and changed my diet to be...
My recent experience with Booking.com is frustrating indeed. I mentioned it above. But now I am locked out of my account. Essentially I received an email about a booking I didn't make. I cancelled the booking, no charges for me, luckily. I sent messages notifying Booking.com, nothing back from...
I also got a weird booking confirmation with a credit card declined. It was for a hotel in Sri Lanka, Logged into my Booking.com account and saw the actual booking! Immediately changed my password. Fortunately my credit card info wasn't available, cancelled the reservation. Weird and scary, The...
I trained in Altra Lone Peak 6's and loved them but bought Astra Olympus 5's for the Camino Portuguese to give better protection from the cobblestones. It was a good choice. They are different than the Lone Peaks with Vibram soles and more cushion and much more support. I didn't mind the...
Yes, Southwest was flying then- I used to fly from Austin to Dallas when I was in college to go to the orthodontist to get my braces tightened. Cost $19. Also before 9/11 so no security lines, so was faster than driving. I could go to morning classes and see the dentist in the afternoon.
I wore Altra Olympics on the Portuguese in April/May. Loved them! They lasted for training before and I am still wearing them without issues. A couple observations that may be helpful.
I also trained in Lone Peaks and love them too but they are different than the Olympus. The Olympus is better...
I walked the Camino Portuguese from Porto to Santiago wearing my LightHeart Gear hiking skirt with a Smart wool T-shirt and a sun protective shirt to protect my forearms from more sun damage. When it was cool I wore wool tights. Loved it, especially when the weather is warmer. Easy to wash and...
We did the Aqueduct route and found it easy, with no scary roads like I have heard are on the river route. The Tourist Office in Vila do Conde was not particularly helpful about the Aqueduct route but the Wise Pilgrim App has the route to follow. We just did it at the end of April.
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