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Hello everyone! I am looking forward to my first camino next summer and I am in the process of figuring out my gear. I am struggling with my backpack fit and was hoping for some tips.
It seems like those are heavier but if it's a better fit, that extra pound will probably be worth it....right?
You are wise to have purchased your bag from REI, especially if you are a member and can take advantage of their members' return/exchange policy. Before our first Camino, my wife and I went through a whole series of backpacks and footwear during our preparation, and never once did REI question our returns. In fact, they were more than eager to help us select alternatives. Because of the popularity of the Camino, many of the REI stores have unofficial Camino specialists to help with gear, clothing, and footwear -- which can be quite different from traditional backpacking needs or treks on the AT or PCT. Be sure to ask at your local or nearby REI if they have such a person....
A staff member at REI measured my torso at "just under 20" (I am 5ft 9)inches so I purchased a "medium" Gregory Zulu 30 L. I took it out on two hikes (well, as much as one can "hike" in Chicago) packed to about 15 pounds for 7 miles. The pack didn't quite feel right, specifically it felt too short and kept sliding up to my waist more than my hips. My shoulders and back did not hurt at the end of the hike but it I was always very aware of it and constantly making adjustments to the straps. So I tried the the same pack in the "large" and this one feels too long. If I lean my head back, it rests on the top part of the frame and I feel like too much is crowding around my neck. And it feels like on a long hike, it could inch up around my waist again.
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Love my lifetime geezer pass to federal parks! Also like my REI membership.You are wise to have purchased your bag from REI, especially if you are a member and can take advantage of their members' return/exchange policy. Before our first Camino, my wife and I went through a whole series of backpacks and footwear during our preparation, and never once did REI question our returns. In fact, they were more than eager to help us select alternatives. Because of the popularity of the Camino, many of the REI stores have unofficial Camino specialists to help with gear, clothing, and footwear -- which can be quite different from traditional backpacking needs or treks on the AT or PCT. Be sure to ask at your local or nearby REI if they have such a person.
I consider the minimal cost of REI membership to be one of my wiser decisions (along with my lifetime geezer pass to federal parks and recreation facilities, which was only $10 when I purchased it longer ago than I like to admit).
Krissten, I don't expect that they will get sick of you. You are the customer they desire. I didn't buy all my shoes at REI except for the 1 pair that I ended up taking on the Camino. The other 3 pairs were left at home. Do your best to find what works for you. Enjoy not only the Camino but also the preparation.I have definitely been taking advantage of their generous return policy. I am hoping they don't get sick of me!!
Also, just as we would adjust the laces on our boots a few times a day due to feet swelling, you might adjust the straps on your pack multiple times a day too.
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