Jacotrans -ruined backpack

[CarrieJL]

Used Jacotrans for past 2 weeks. Received backpack today after a transfer in Astorga. Found one shoulder tension strap ripped out of its seam making backpack completely unusable. Other shoulder strap had couple seams ripped out. Replacement value $300+ range. Suggestions to ask of Jacotrans?

 

[C clearly]

Suggestions to ask of Jacotrans?

Well, I would start by asking them.

 

[Former member 49149]

Well, I would start by asking them.

The sooner the better, and with clear photos, and link to similar replacement on internet. Buena suerte.
Meantime, find a cheap bag to sit your backpack into, and continue using the company. Clearly something went badly wrong. So sorry, you must be very upset.

 

[FLEUR]

Sorry to hear about the damage to your rucksack.

I've mentioned this before but will repeat my advice.
Buy a packable holdall, you can pack your good rucksack and poles in this when using air travel and have to check your luggage as hold baggage.
On the Camino use your holdall to pack your unwanted items for Jacotrans or other carriers to transport. You carry your lightly filled, good, comfortable rucksack on your daily walks.

 

[pepi]

Used Jacotrans for past 2 weeks. Received backpack today after a transfer in Astorga. Found one shoulder tension strap ripped out of its seam making backpack completely unusable. Other shoulder strap had couple seams ripped out. Replacement value $300+ range. Suggestions to ask of Jacotrans?

I too had forwarded my mochilla by Jacotrans “all the (CF) way”. As reported in another thread, it was twice sent to wrong places, in spite that I submitted a full and detailed Excel document for a start.

The problem is that Jacotrans has no-one to assume responsibility in case of a problem, because it is a cooperation of 5 or more independent entrepreneurs, none of them capable -or willing- to respond to English complaints.

In view of the huge increase of business over the last few years, it would be befitting to this service to install a single and competent multilingual Helpdesk along with an insurance coverage to give customers protection.

I know Jacotrans since many years and they generally do a good job, as many peregrinos commented to my post. Nevertheless, increasing incidences show, that Jacotrans should revamp and adapt their service-quality to match the grown size of the business.
To the OP I can only wish good luck -and solid knowledge of Spanish-in claiming damages.

 

[trecile]

Sorry to hear about the damage to your rucksack.

I've mentioned this before but will repeat my advice.
Buy a packable holdall, you can pack your good rucksack and poles in this when using air travel and have to check your luggage as hold baggage.
On the Camino use your holdall to pack your unwanted items for Jacotrans or other carriers to transport. You carry your lightly filled, good, comfortable rucksack on your daily walks.

This is excellent advice. No point in carrying both a day pack and a regular backpack when the intention is to ship the backpack daily.

 

[CarrieJL]

Thanks for those who chimed in. Jacotrans will take no responsibility. I can’t prove it nor they. Who knows maybe hotel staff or a hotel.

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

 

[CarrieJL]

Thanks for those who chimed in. Jacotrans will take no responsibility. I can’t prove it nor they. Who knows maybe hotel staff or a hotel.

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

I decided to switch to Transporte rather than Jacotrans, who claims they’ve never
Run into damages backpack issues before in all the 10 yrs of service. Im doubtful
Of that.

 

[pepi]

I decided to switch to Transporte rather than Jacotrans, who claims they’ve never
Run into damages backpack issues before in all the 10 yrs of service. Im doubtful
Of that.

You should be able to find a suitable shop in Ponferrada.
By the way: you had to deal with the same Jacotrans-guy and his wife, as I. Plain rude.

 

[henrythedog]

Looking ahead you’ll probably find a cobbler / shoe repairer (zapatero) in Ponferrada who would be able to make a repair.

 

[isobelmtl]

I agree with the idea of trying to find a dry cleaner? shoemaker? to make repairs. This may not be feasable for you but I was able to patch up a fellow pelligrina's shoe using dental floss and a stout needle which I had brought from home. I also had a thimble to help with the sewing but any tough object will be OK. Dental floss has been my go-to ever since for repairs on trail items. In terms of transport companies - I used Correos for the last half of my walk last fall. They are the naitonal post service. The one time there was a problem (the albergue had just changed its name) my pack was taken to the local post office in Burgos and I was able to retrieve it. Best of luck. This is very upsetting I'm sure.

 

[Former member 49149]

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

Perhaps what are known as Los Chinos, ie a Chinese shop, selling everything maybe including the kitchen sink... the very light checked bags that could hold half a mountain...no, not really, but a rucksack yes.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

I've abused backpack's on Camino's over the years. I've never had an issue like this. What brand of pack is it, if I may ask? One strap maybe but for both straps to rip from the seam sounds more like a manufacturing problem. Hope you make out better on your Camino.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

One strap maybe but for both straps to rip from the seam sounds more like a manufacturing problem.

The damage appears to me too weird to be inflicted accidentally. I can't get it out of my mind that the pack may have been vandalized; still usable but with enough damage to be annoying. I'm assuming you left it to be picked up after you started walking.

Are you a snorer?

 

[Anamiri]

The damage appears to me too weird to be inflicted accidentally. I can't get it out of my mind that the pack may have been vandalized; still usable but with enough damage to be annoying. I'm assuming you left it to be picked up after you started walking.

Are you a snorer?

I wondered the same if it was deliberate damage. The packs sit in an accessible pile in reception where anyone has access.

 

[CarrieJL]

Looking ahead you’ll probably find a cobbler / shoe repairer (zapatero) in Ponferrada who would be able to make a repair.

Interesting idea, though if I come across one I’ll check it out. We’re walking through Ponferrada so don’t have much time for repair work. Might be best to get a cheap large rucksack.

 

[CarrieJL]

I've abused backpack's on Camino's over the years. I've never had an issue like this. What brand of pack is it, if I may ask? One strap maybe but for both straps to rip from the seam sounds more like a manufacturing problem. Hope you make out better on your Camino.

It’s a Gregory Octal 55L (ultra light) bought from REI, on sale (half price), that I bought about 6 months ago. I hope they will let me return it for credit/refund. If not I’ll check with travel insurance.

 

[henrythedog]

First review on Amazon in the UK for that model;

“On day 3, one of the load lifters ripped out. I was able to kind of fix that by using the connection to the pack's brain as a work around. Then on day 10, the pack's hipbelt stitching began to shred the fabric where it was stitched. I spent the next 10 days extremely worried about the entire hipbelt falling apart, which would have been an extremely problematic outcome.”

 

[MikeyC]

Ponferrada has a Decathlon store

 

[phildimashq]

If you go to decathlon looking for a lightweight pack, I used their Trekking MH500 30 Litre on the Camino Portugues this year and it was very comfortable.


https://www.decathlon.ie/walking-ba...6s7E5iGC7LtTvuHQ0EQEt_vcPKA8YWIRoC3GQQAvD_BwE

It comes in two back sizes. People shorter than 5'7 or 170 cm take size S. Any one taller takes L

I'm 5'7 and took size L and was very happy with it. Weight was approx 1.3kg or 2.8 Lbs

They also do a 40 litre version of the same pack if you need the space - obviously it'll be little heavier.

These are their best "lightweight" options.

As you're shipping the luggage ahead, Decathlon also do some large holdall type bags and you could probably find one that you could fit the entire damaged backpack into.

A cheap option, as Kirkie mentioned earlier, is to find a chinese shop and I'd say you'd be almost guaranteed to find something similar to the big blue ikea bag shown below

BAZAR ASIA could be a winner :

https://goo.gl/maps/bCatxvJgUa3gX53o7

 

[trecile]

It comes in two back sizes. People shorter than 5'7 or 170 cm take size S. Any one taller takes L

You need to buy a pack based on torso length, not your height. Two people with the same height can have very different torso lengths depending on if they are long legged or long waisted.

This article explains to to measure torso length.

 

[Anamya]

If you go to decathlon looking for a lightweight pack, I used their Trekking MH500 30 Litre on the Camino Portugues this year and it was very comfortable.

Decathlon is great for backpacks and quick gear replacements.
My husband has the MH500, walked the Portiuguese and Lebaniego with it. I have the NH100, very affordable for Australian standards, and fits me perfectly.

 

[VNwalking]

Try find a zapatero!

We’re walking through Ponferrada so don’t have much time for repair work.

They do great work, perhaps even while you wait. As fast as shopping and a ton cheaper and more sustainable.

 

[dick bird]

I would definitely take it to a zapatero in Ponferrada, if you can find one. They are magicians.

 

[VNwalking]

I would definitely take it to a zapatero in Ponferrada, if you can find one. They are magicians.

Absolutely. And cheap.
Just ask around - people will know. They will be more centrally located than the Decathlon, an added bonus.

 

[phildimashq]

You need to buy a pack based on torso length, not your height. Two people with the same height can have very different torso lengths depending on if they are long legged or long waisted.

This article explains to to measure torso length.

Good point.. the OP can of course try both sizes on in store to see what fits.

 

[TaraWalks]

Thanks for those who chimed in. Jacotrans will take no responsibility. I can’t prove it nor they. Who knows maybe hotel staff or a hotel.

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

Ponferrada has a Decathlon. They may have something.
Tara

 

[caminka]

Thanks for those who chimed in. Jacotrans will take no responsibility. I can’t prove it nor they. Who knows maybe hotel staff or a hotel.

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

there's a decathlon in ponferrada. it is about 1.5km south of the old centre past the train station.

 

[caminka]

Looking ahead you’ll probably find a cobbler / shoe repairer (zapatero) in Ponferrada who would be able to make a repair.

there was once a cobbler in ponferrada in the vicinity of the post office. I know because he reparied my shoes very nicely. but that was, um, 17 years ago.

 

[Robo]

Sorry, this may be a dumb suggestion.
But if the bag is being transported, you could replace it with a $2 zipup Laundry bag.
(or at least put your pack inside it)
This is what I have used in the past, when I needed luggage transfer.
(and still used my pack as a day pack)

If you see how the bags get thrown on and off, I'm not sure I'd risk a backpack with all the bits hanging off it. In no way defending poor handling, but I can imagine how it could have been on the bottom of a heavy pile and got yanked out by the straps or something.

But the repair idea sounds like a good one, if you still need to use the backpack as a backpack.

Hope it all works out.....

 

[Scott Sweeney]

It’s a Gregory Octal 55L (ultra light) bought from REI, on sale (half price), that I bought about 6 months ago. I hope they will let me return it for credit/refund. If not I’ll check with travel insurance.

Well you should get a refund from REI then. Not that it does you any good now.

 

[Sparleb644]

I would definitely take it to a zapatero in Ponferrada, if you can find one. They are magicians.

I totally agree. And they have strapping material. And sewing machines that can do this kind of material. And they totally understand how the fabric and loads work. And not expensive. But only if you are needing to carry it later. If you do transport, you’ve got lots of advice for that.

The damage to the left shoulder strap is along a seam. The damage to the right strap is the tearing of the adjustment strap. Both look like someone lifted your pack using the adjustment straps. They are not designed to take the full weight of the pack, so that would explain their failing and as @Rick of Rick and Peg said, it may have been in a pile…..

Good luck and Buen Camino

 

[CarrieJL]

I totally agree. And they have strapping material. And sewing machines that can do this kind of material. And they totally understand how the fabric and loads work. And not expensive. But only if you are needing to carry it later. If you do transport, you’ve got lots of advice for that.

The damage to the left shoulder strap is along a seam. The damage to the right strap is the tearing of the adjustment strap. Both look like someone lifted your pack using the adjustment straps. They are not designed to take the full weight of the pack, so that would explain their failing and as @Rick of Rick and Peg said, it may have been in a pile…..

Good luck and Buen Camino

Thanks for all input & advice.

UPDATE- I ended up going to Decathalon in Ponferrada & Buying a shipping cover designed for backpacks. I plan to contact Gregory to see what they suggest; may look into a repair shop when I get home in a week. I too hate wasting stuff. I just didn’t want to deal with the hassles and time lost looking for a zapatareo on a Sunday.

I had a hunch these not so wide straps might be iffy. I had difficulty finding a backpack to fit my small frame & this backpack was it. Glanced at reviews but ignored looking deeper in them. Looks like Gregory discontinued this model. I think it was gross mishandling. It did have a fair amount of weight as my stuff and hubby’s were packed in there - maybe 30-35 lbs or a tad more - hard to tell. I ended using day pack hubby used his own 40L one.

Been an adventure! One more week til we walk into Santiago!

Thank you all for your support! Buen Camino!

 

[Wanderingfriend]

Thanks for those who chimed in. Jacotrans will take no responsibility. I can’t prove it nor they. Who knows maybe hotel staff or a hotel.

Im in Rabanal so it will be a challenge finding a store that sells something to fit backpack into. Any ideas where to buy such a inexpensive bag
enroute to Santiago?

I would try to find some sort of bag to put the damaged pack into and send it ahead until you reach a larger city. Maybe one of the albergues would have an idea for a bag.

 

[trecile]

I would try to find some sort of bag to put the damaged pack into and send it ahead until you reach a larger city. Maybe one of the albergues would have an idea for a bag.

@CarrieJL has done exactly that

UPDATE- I ended up going to Decathalon in Ponferrada & Buying a shipping cover designed for backpacks.

 

[Lurch]

I tend to ship half of my gear Via Jaco. However, I use an IKEA bag, ugly as sin, to put my gear in. It has been damaged, true, but never torn apart. Cheap and easy.

 

[Bogong]

Used Jacotrans for past 2 weeks. Received backpack today after a transfer in Astorga. Found one shoulder tension strap ripped out of its seam making backpack completely unusable. Other shoulder strap had couple seams ripped out. Replacement value $300+ range. Suggestions to ask of Jacotrans?

I looked at the damage photos and was appalled. Also the price you quoted $300 is outrageous. I’ve bushwalked, XC skiied, travelled in some pretty vicious conditions at times. A halfway decent pack should survive pretty well anything. Sorry, but your pack is absolute rubbish and massively, indeed horrendously overpriced. Never ever buy this brand again. There seems to be a bit of an obsession with ultralight and ultra expensive. I suspect only too often it also amounts to ultra rubbish. For around a tenth of the price you could have bought an Aldi one which would have done a lot better that this and which would have been only slightly heavier. This advice may go for others too.

De Colores

Bogong

Thanks for all input & advice.

UPDATE- I ended up going to Decathalon in Ponferrada & Buying a shipping cover designed for backpacks. I plan to contact Gregory to see what they suggest; may look into a repair shop when I get home in a week. I too hate wasting stuff. I just didn’t want to deal with the hassles and time lost looking for a zapatareo on a Sunday.

I had a hunch these not so wide straps might be iffy. I had difficulty finding a backpack to fit my small frame & this backpack was it. Glanced at reviews but ignored looking deeper in them. Looks like Gregory discontinued this model. I think it was gross mishandling. It did have a fair amount of weight as my stuff and hubby’s were packed in there - maybe 30-35 lbs or a tad more - hard to tell. I ended using day pack hubby used his own 40L one.

Been an adventure! One more week til we walk into Santiago!

Thank you all for your support! Buen Camino!

 

[trecile]

It’s a Gregory Octal 55L (ultra light) bought from REI, on sale (half price), that I bought about 6 months ago. I hope they will let me return it for credit/refund. If not I’ll check with travel insurance.

If you are an REI member you should be able to return it for refund, no questions asked, within a year of purchase.

Return Policy & Instructions | REI Co-op

REI has you covered with our 100% satisfaction guarantee. See our Returns and Exchanges policy and instructions for returning by mail or in store.

www.rei.com

In addition, Gregory offers a lifetime warranty.

Lifetime Warranty & Guarantee | Last a Lifetime | Gregory

Gregory Mountain Products

www.gregorypacks.com

 

[MikeyC]

I did wonder how they organised collection and delivery so as to minimise handling and damage.
I'm still none the wiser but it doesn't look too scientific.

 

[Bogong]

If you are an REI member you should be able to return it for refund, no questions asked, within a year of purchase.

Return Policy & Instructions | REI Co-op

REI has you covered with our 100% satisfaction guarantee. See our Returns and Exchanges policy and instructions for returning by mail or in store.

www.rei.com

In addition, Gregory offers a lifetime warranty.

Lifetime Warranty & Guarantee | Last a Lifetime | Gregory

Gregory Mountain Products

www.gregorypacks.com

A lot of promotional “spin” and an awful lot of wriggle room in the caveats. I wonder if there’s a central agency selling this or a similar sample text to anyone who wants it. Here at any rate the action for the consumer is to put a claim on the seller, not the manufacturers. Sometimes the seller will try to fob you off. I had this happen once with an expensive new camera bought at a duty-free airport shop. After some back and forth they accepted their legal responsibility and sent it to the manufacturer’s agentTheir response was to claim one of the caveats and tell me to get lost. I checked the issue out with my camera specialist who rubbished their argument, so I next sent them a copy of the letter I intended to send to Consumer AffAirs Dept and they caved in. I suspect you’ll get decent service from REI.

De Colores

Bogong

 

[Rita Flower]

Used Jacotrans for past 2 weeks. Received backpack today after a transfer in Astorga. Found one shoulder tension strap ripped out of its seam making backpack completely unusable. Other shoulder strap had couple seams ripped out. Replacement value $300+ range. Suggestions to ask of Jacotrans?

So sorry to hear this happened for you.
I now now realise (from my recent Camino experience) that no matter how well prepared we are, bad things can happen to anyone at any time - through no fault of our own.
Practice patience and persistence in resolving this issue - if Jacotrans don’t reimburse you would this be covered by your travel insurance.