Backpack Advice

[Richwang2112]

Hello

I need an expedition pack with internal frame that has a capacity of around 5500 cu. in. What are some good ones that arent too pricey. I was looking to spend less than $200.

Thanks

[JimS]

EMS is having a great deal on their expedition pack. It didn't get great reviews itself...but I'm typically very happy with their stuff, and this is a really good deal...
http://www.ems.com/catalog/product_d...=1202379085244

[Dan]

Richwang, my only advise is to make sure you don't tade price for fit!!! If your buying an expedition pack that means its going to be loaded heavy and you will be going long distances with it! The EMS pack could be great. I've used a 4400 cu in EMS pack for years, but make sure you load it with 50 + lbs when you try it on at the store. Last year I bought a Gregory Denali Pro with intentions of using it on long trips (5 or more days), and it fits great! It cost a fair amount but I feel it was money well spent. It puts my EMS Longtrail to shame. I lugged 85lbs in it for 7 miles and the the pack carries the weight very well.

[rockin rex]

When me and my buddy did the 100 mile wilderness he used the E.M.S. expedition pack and loved it. He carrierd around 60 pounds and we did big mileage days (Monson to Abol in 7 days) He never once complained about the pack. When we came out at Abol Bridge he just raved about the pack and said he would highly recommend it to anyone. For the price it is an incredible pack that you will get many years use out of. Remember Eastern Mountain Sports stands behind all their products for life.

[a3dad]

you get what you pay for... $200 (list price) is NOT a lot to pay for an expedition pack. I think if you spurge another $100 your back will thank you every step of the way.

[climbabout]

I can vouch for the fact that a good suspension system is paramount to comfort when carrying big loads. I have a Gregory Whitney pack and it makes 60-70lbs feel like 35-40.
Tim

[Charlie]

do you think the sales help at ems or rei know what they doing when it comes to info or experience with packs and other things .i live in pa and not sure what they know at the ems here and never bin to the rei store here .
so what have you ran into

thanks

[mtruman]

do you think the sales help at ems or rei know what they doing when it comes to info or experience with packs and other things

I've had really good experience with the sales help at REI both in RI and in Boston - particularly with packs. The guys that have helped us in both stores on several occasions have obviously spent lots of time on the trail themselves and have the knowlege of the proper fitting process, right pack for the purpose, etc. Top notch. Similar in other departments in REI including with hiking boots, etc. A little more hit or miss at EMS although they have some really knowlegable folks as well. Pretty easy to tell if the person knows what they are talking about early in the conversation...

[donnellyvj]

I love my Mystery Ranch pack (G Light Glacier 4200). Worth every penny!!!

[Charlie]

i went into the local ems and picked up a pair of sandals and the help if i could have them in gore-tex the waited for a response and they started to laugh