Need a larger backpack - advice please

[Margaret A]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack and I love it, and also love that I can manage to travel (fairly) lightly. Now I'm about to do the entire route in one go (gulp) but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions. My trusty Lowe Alpine will not accommodate the boots (Scarpa) whenever I change into my runners - unless I pack little else! I would welcome any suggestions as to how much more capacity I would need in a backpack and what brands I might consider. I've been looking at the Gossamer Gear brand from a mention in another thread but it doesn't seem to be available from a Uk or Irish site. And this is fairly urgent as I fly out on Sept. 13th. Thanks in advance.

 

[code_monkey_001]

My personal solution to a similar problem was to attach my backup shoes to the outside of my pack. I might have looked silly but had easy access to dry footwear without sacrificing storage space.

 

[NualaOC]

Hi Margaret, I know that this isn't answering your question, but would you consider wearing something lighter than the Scarpa boots? They are probably heavier than is needed for the Camino Frances. I alternate between hiking shoes and Keen hiking sandals and although I was hesitant about the sandals (I have some foot issues), they've worked out really well. And I've no bother fitting the shoes or sandals with the rest of my stuff in my 30L or my 35L Deuter backpacks.

Where do you live in Ireland? There are some great shops around the country that will help you find the perfect backpack for your needs.

Good luck - hope you get something that works for you.

 

[SYates]

I have an Osprey Exos 58 that weights just over 1kg and is very comfortable to me. Link: http://www.ospreyeurope.com/gb_en/exos-58

Like always, you need to try it first, to see if it fits! Buen Camino, SY

 

[anna klara klintegaard]

Love Osprey

 

[linkster]

There is also an Osprey Exos 48. This is in between what you have and what SYates suggested. Here is a hyperlink to a YouTube review of the Exos 48.

 

[cher99840]

My personal solution to a similar problem was to attach my backup shoes to the outside of my pack. I might have looked silly but had easy access to dry footwear without sacrificing storage space.

This would be my solution as well. @Margaret A , usually the compression straps on the pack will accommodate this solution---one boot per side and secured with carabiners if necessary so they don't flop around. Many are against danglies but I prefer that to a larger pack inviting more stuff.

 

[Margaret A]

My personal solution to a similar problem was to attach my backup shoes to the outside of my pack. I might have looked silly but had easy access to dry footwear without sacrificing storage space.

Thanks for this suggestion Code Monkey - but I'm inclined to get everything into the pack if possible, esp thinking of bad, rainy days.

 

[Margaret A]

I have an Osprey Exos 58 that weights just over 1kg and is very comfortable to me.

Thanks SY - I've been looking at this and it seems v good. Is there an integrated rain cover? I just don't see it mentioned in any review.

 

[Margaret A]

would you consider wearing something lighter than the Scarpa boots?

Hi Nuala, I live in the south east and have to travel to either Dublin or Cork for specialist gear - both about an hour and a half from me. If you have any recommendations for service/expertise? Also I'd prefer to wear the boots if possible, they seem to suit me. Buen Camino

 

[SYates]

Thanks SY - I've been looking at this and it seems v good. Is there an integrated rain cover? I just don't see it mentioned in any review.

No, there isn't, I just use a separately bought one. Buen Camino, SY

 

[MTtoCamino]

If the Exos doesn't the Osprey mgf makes one. I used an Osprey Kestral 48 & I could fit my boots or shoes in it easily I would assume the Exos in that size would be the same. You could always use a compression bag for your sleeping bag & put your boots in the lower sleeping bag compartment. I am a huge Osprey fan, for multiple day or week trips in the backcountry I use an Osprey 85L pack. They make good stuff.
Make sure you visit the Osprey web site they give the weight of the different backpacks, you need to follow their max weight for comfort. As the lighter packs start getting uncomfortable in the 25# or 13k range. You will also need to order the correct size so you get a good fit. All of the newer packs you can adjust the fit easily.

 

[spursfan]

but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions.

Forgive me, but I'm not clear - are you expected to wear them on alternate days (irrespective of weather and conditions) or are you expected to choose between the boots and runners depending on weather and conditions (in the latter case, if the weather is hot and predominantly dry, then you might wear only one of the two types nearly all the time)

I'd still be tempted to keep your 35L pack - but get rid of bulky items such as a fleece (need a light rain jacket more, can take a couple of Merino tops against cold) and a sleeping bag (and instead take a silk sleeping bag liner)

 

[Margaret A]

are you expected to choose between the boots and runners depending on weather and conditions (in the latter case, if the weather is hot and predominantly dry, then you might wear only one of the two types nearly all the time)

Thanks Spursfan - I don't bring a fleece or a sleeping bag. Just as you said, a light rain jacket, rain pants and a silk sleeping bag liner plus merino layers that I use as the occasion demands. Buen camino

 

[Lmsundaze]

I have a ULA Ohm2.0. It weighs under 2 pounds, cinches in nicely when you are carrying less, and I think would work for you. Check it out. If you need a bit bigger people like the ULA Circuit.

 

[dougfitz]

Footwear of any description takes up a lot of space in a pack, even if you stuff it full of clothing, etc. In the past, I would want all my load inside my pack, but I am now with @code_monkey_001, and have taken to carrying my alternative footwear strapped to the sides of my pack on the Camino. I wouldn't do that bush walking, where I still think having the load carried inside the pack is important. My only other observation is that I had to make sure that I had a rain cover that fitted over both the pack and any external load.

 

[patk]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack and I love it, and also love that I can manage to travel (fairly) lightly. Now I'm about to do the entire route in one go (gulp) but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions. My trusty Lowe Alpine will not accommodate the boots (Scarpa) whenever I change into my runners - unless I pack little else! I would welcome any suggestions as to how much more capacity I would need in a backpack and what brands I might consider. I've been looking at the Gossamer Gear brand from a mention in another thread but it doesn't seem to be available from a Uk or Irish site. And this is fairly urgent as I fly out on Sept. 13th. Thanks in advance.

what about runners and a good pair of walking sandals?? I have tried all the boots etc and always get blisters but last time, i changed to a pair of Teva sandals if I thought a blister was on the way. The rest does your feet more good than 50 compeeds, and I have gone through packets of those. good luck.

 

[MTtoCamino]

Thanks Spursfan - I don't bring a fleece or a sleeping bag. Just as you said, a light rain jacket, rain pants and a silk sleeping bag liner plus merino layers that I use as the occasion demands. Buen camino

You probably will be fine with what you have tying off at 2 points on your boots outside the pack. Do your boots have a leather loop at the top of the ankle area? Does your pack have lashing points on the top & sides? Carabiners work great with the shoe laces a way to anchor the boot. Then just visit a store that carries backpacks & try to find a cover that is hi vis to cover it all. Just another suggestion.

 

[NualaOC]

Hi Nuala, I live in the south east and have to travel to either Dublin or Cork for specialist gear - both about an hour and a half from me. If you have any recommendations for service/expertise? Also I'd prefer to wear the boots if possible, they seem to suit me. Buen Camino

Hi Margaret, I can understand why you prefer to stick with what works for you. I suppose I was just thinking of the weight and size of a typical Scarpa boot.

As regards outdoor shops in the South East, I don't know of anywhere. I think that forum member @Deise is in your next of the woods, so he might be able to help. If you are travelling to Dublin, 53 Degrees North is worth a visit - the Blanchardstown and Carrickmines stores are near the M50. They have a good range of backpacks.

As other have said, tying your boots to you pack is an option too.

Buen Camino!

 

[AcrossTheWater3008]

Hi @Margaret A, I am currently on the Camino, in Muxia, having walked from SJPDP.... I am using the Osprey Exos 48....it is a great pack wt a trampoline back etc... plus it is lightweight. My only complaint is that it is only a top loader, which means that if I wish to get anything out of the pack, I hv to unpack the pack as, inevitably, although I left it at the top for access, it had slipped to midway or the bottom.... hence, I wish this great pack has a bottom or side loading too. The fact that it does not come wt a raincover is not a problem for me as I hv a great poncho that covers everything!!!

Buen Camino!

 

[Margaret A]

If you are travelling to Dublin, 53 Degrees North is worth a visit - the Blanchardstown and Carrickmines stores are near the M50.

Thanks Nuala - yes I'm familiar with the 53 Degrees North stores in Dublin and Cork and have found them to be good. Buen Camino

 

[Margaret A]

I am currently on the Camino, in Muxia, having walked from SJPDP.... I am using the Osprey Exos 48....it is a great pack wt a trampoline back etc... plus it is lightweight.

Hi there, thanks for that enthusiastic endorsement - I'm getting the feeling that the Ospreys have a loyal following. I'm going to investigate them, but will likely try to get one with an integral rain cover as I don't wear a poncho. Buen Camino

 

[Jo Ann Rademacher]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack and I love it, and also love that I can manage to travel (fairly) lightly. Now I'm about to do the entire route in one go (gulp) but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions. My trusty Lowe Alpine will not accommodate the boots (Scarpa) whenever I change into my runners - unless I pack little else! I would welcome any suggestions as to how much more capacity I would need in a backpack and what brands I might consider. I've been looking at the Gossamer Gear brand from a mention in another thread but it doesn't seem to be available from a Uk or Irish site. And this is fairly urgent as I fly out on Sept. 13th. Thanks in advance.

I was able to carry my boots inside my backpack when I wanted to hike in my sandals. I use a Deuter 40+10 backpack.

 

[linkster]

@Margaret A
The Osprey Exos 48 does not have an integrated rain cover, but Osprey does have a rain cover designed for the pack. Here is a hyperlink to the Ultralight Raincover Medium.

I agree with @AcrossTheWater3008 about the cons of a top loading pack. The pro is simplicity ... no zippers to fail, usually lighter. I also like the removable lid to lighten the pack weight.

 

[julia-t]

Despite all its weight advantages I didn't like the Osprey Exos 48 when I tried it. Maybe the back wasn't adjusted properly, but it just didn't fit me right.

I returned it and replaced it with the Osprey Kyte 46.

I know a lot of people have the Kyte 36 - there is no difference in the length or width of the pack but there is a bit more depth should I need it - and I have...

...to pack my boots inside!

Could be worth considering, especially as it has an integral rain cover.

 

[C clearly]

Do the integral rain covers do anything the non-integral ones don't, other than not go astray? I thought the integrated part was just the storage.

 

[MTtoCamino]

Do the integral rain covers do anything the non-integral ones don't, other than not go astray? I thought the integrated part was just the storage.

Yes the only difference is the pocket on the pack. 2 osprey packs I own have the integral the oldest 3rd does not. I actually like the purchased pack cover better as it has snaps that snake thru the back & keep it in place better. Also you can find specialty Hi visibility covers when close to roads. In a downpour it is always dark anyway adding a reflective rain cover is a darn good idea.

 

[Purple Backpack]

Hi Margaret,
I use Scarpa approach shoes for heavier hiking with ultralight trail runners to change into. For cold weather or longer trips, I use my Osprey Kyte 38 pack. The bottom sleeping bag compartment fits the extra shoes, sleeping bag and rain gear (but if I'm using the Kyte, the rain gear is usually needed!). The main compartment is used for clothing, food and personal items and first aid kit goes in top so I can get to it fast. Phone goes in one hip pocket, tissues and protein bar in the other. I just switched out the old Osprey water system for the new fold top system and love it. Much easier to clean and fill from low faucets. The Kyte is designed for women so fits my shoulders and hips better and is really comfortable. The built-in rain cover is easy to get to if a storm comes up fast or if I just want to make it a bit harder for someone else to get into the pack. I had the Kyte 48 but switched down to this streamlined version. For lighter loads, I use the Talon 33 or women's Tempest 20 but these don't work well for heavier gear.

 

[MTtoCamino]

The Kyte is what I would buy for my wife after having it fitted.

 

[HikeTall]

I love the Osprey Exos that was suggested, as I have the Exos 38 and its both super light & comfy.... But keep in mind, the Exos series does not have bottom access. I'm not a boot guy, but If you really do have to take boots, I'd pick a pack that has a seperate zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment to store your boots in - such as the Osprey Talon 44, or Stratos 34/36/50 or another such pack. That way you can isolate your boots from the rest of your pack items if they are muddy. Or like some have said, you can always tie your boots to the outside of your pack to save space. Bien Camino!

 

[Melensdad]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack ...

My daughter just completed the Camino in July using a Lowe Alpine AirZone 35L pack. Great pack. In fact I use that same pack on many short trips too. The adjustable torso system and the internal frame allow that small pack to carry more weight than most other small packs and do so very comfortably. I understand why you love your pack. Keep it. Use it.

Heed the advice of others here. Strap your boots to the outside of your pack, they will likely fit under your rain cover unless you have giant feet. Use the compression straps to keep them from flopping around.

 

[drawstring]

I used an Osprey Talon33 this year on the Portuguese Camino. Good pack for me. 5kg total plus 2 kg water. I could have fit hiking boots in if needed. I used trail shoes and had a pair of plastic sandals strung outside. I'll admit I seem to be blessed with good feet. Travel light.
Alan

 

[Margaret A]

My daughter just completed the Camino in July using a Lowe Alpine AirZone 35L pack.

Thanks @Melensdad - I agree completely with you about my Lowe Alpine! I am about to make a decision and will post here the outcome of all the advice I received to my query. I will update shortly and thanks to you all.

 

[Margaret A]

I'll admit I seem to be blessed with good feet. Travel light.

Thanks @drawstring - I have feet envy!!

 

[christy wharton]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack and I love it, and also love that I can manage to travel (fairly) lightly. Now I'm about to do the entire route in one go (gulp) but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions. My trusty Lowe Alpine will not accommodate the boots (Scarpa) whenever I change into my runners - unless I pack little else! I would welcome any suggestions as to how much more capacity I would need in a backpack and what brands I might consider. I've been looking at the Gossamer Gear brand from a mention in another thread but it doesn't seem to be available from a Uk or Irish site. And this is fairly urgent as I fly out on Sept. 13th. Thanks in advance.

Hi there. I sowed a simple but suitably sized pocket/pouch/patch onto the lower back of my bagpack to carry "backup footware" +etc. Footwear takes up a lot of space when packed internally. They can swing if tied loose. Having them external is also more hygenic. The pouch need not be used going through airport security. Ultreia

 

[cher99840]

Hi there. I sowed a simple but suitably sized pocket/pouch/patch onto the lower back of my bagpack to carry "backup footware" +etc. Footwear takes up a lot of space when packed internally. They can swing if tied loose. Having them external is also more hygenic. The pouch need not be used going through airport security. Ultreia

Very interesting!! Could you post a picture of your added pouch?

 

[Margaret A]

I have bought the Osprey Exos 48! I like it's roominess (esp in the hood), the way it can be cinched to keep it streamlined, the clever use of space/storage and the light weight of the pack itself. Other packs that were suggested (like the Kyte) I couldn't get here. So, like all decisions, I had to compromise a little. But I feel happy with this and thank you all for your help with suggestions. We arrive in SJPdP next Tuesday and plan to start walking on Wed 14th. Looking forward to getting on with it and glad to see that the temps are dropping. Buen camino everyone.

 

[domigee]

Good choice Margaret (well I would say that, I LOVE my Exos 48 )
and buen camino!

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

Yes the only difference is the pocket on the pack. 2 osprey packs I own have the integral the oldest 3rd does not. I actually like the purchased pack cover better as it has snaps that snake thru the back & keep it in place better. Also you can find specialty Hi visibility covers when close to roads. In a downpour it is always dark anyway adding a reflective rain cover is a darn good idea.

I agree...my beloved exos is olive and charcoal (and it's rain cover is hi-viz yellow). For added measure I put runners' flashing lights on the back And my chest strap.

 

[MTtoCamino]

I agree...my beloved exos is olive and charcoal (and it's rain cover is hi-viz yellow). For added measure I put runners' flashing lights on the back And my chest strap.

So my question to the Exos owners since it is one main compartment & the lid do you use a compression bag for your sleeping bag if you walk in cooler seasons or just stuff it in & go? In 2013 the Exos was not available when I purchased my Kestral, but the Exos is at least 1.5 LB lighter.

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

So my question to the Exos owners since it is one main compartment & the lid do you use a compression bag for your sleeping bag if you walk in cooler seasons or just stuff it in & go? In 2013 the Exos was not available when I purchased my Kestral, but the Exos is at least 1.5 LB lighter.

I had an ultra light super warm down bag that came with a stuff/compression bag. Or it was warm until one of my hotel stays when the laundry ironed it. I put it in last, out first. I'm a dreaded early riser so I'd pack everything the night before and tiptoe out in am carrying pack and bag. In the common area or entry I'd stuff bag into into sac, toss it into pack, put on boots and close the door quietly behind me (all in the dark). I put Spanish phone, extra socks, credential, sunscreen extra batteries/sim card, rain cover and Tevas in top pocket for mid-day access if needed. Rain jacket and pants in the back flap

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

You will love love love your exos!

 

[domigee]

So my question to the Exos owners since it is one main compartment & the lid do you use a compression bag for your sleeping bag if you walk in cooler seasons or just stuff it in & go? In 2013 the Exos was not available when I purchased my Kestral, but the Exos is at least 1.5 LB lighter.

Yes I use a stuff bag and as it is a down sleeping bag I put the lot in a small dry sack.

 

[HikeTall]

I have the Exos 38 and love it. Super light & comfy. Since it doesn't have a seperate compartment for a sleeping bag, yes, I would use a stuff sack. You don't have to, but I would. It will help protect your sleeping bag from getting wet or dirty. Bien Camino!

 

[poogeyejr]

Hi Margaret!

How was your Camino - Did you like the Exos?
I would love to hear how it worked out.

Kathy

 

[timr]

Hi Nuala, I live in the south east and have to travel to either Dublin or Cork for specialist gear - both about an hour and a half from me. If you have any recommendations for service/expertise? Also I'd prefer to wear the boots if possible, they seem to suit me. Buen Camino

Margaret, I live in (very rural) Wicklow and have to travel to buy stuff too. If you do come to Dublin I'd recommend Basecamp in Middle Abbey Street. <basecamp.ie > They are independent with just one other shop in Kilkenny I think. They are Camino friendly as you will see from their website. I had helpful email discussion (about wide shoe fitting) before I went and spent well over an hour one morning trying on different shoes ending up with my most comfortable shoes ever. I think the 'hour' more significant than the brand! Finding what is comfortable is something you cannot do online. They were patient, completely non-pushy and very knowledgeable. They have a big range of sacks too and you can load them and try them on. I'm in Portugal right now, with perfect shoes and perfect bag. And no, I am not related to the shop in any way. Tim

 

[linkster]

FYI, The Exos 38 and 48 are on sale at various online retailers in the US for ~ 25% discount.

 

[Hiawatha]

Tieing boots to the outside of a pack is just asking for trouble . I came across a man , who for reasons much as yours needed to alternate footwear , he was in sneakers, midway on the worst shale slope I have ever climbed . One of his Scarpa boots had fallen off some place and he had been backtracking for hours looking for it .
Filthy ,muddy and sometimes stinking boots have no place in your backpack either . The best solution I have found is to use a light daypack securely attached to the main pack with dedicated straps .
This method would let you keep your existing pack and keep your footwear safe and dry as well as isolated from clean contents .

 

[Kanga]

I carried a pair of boots all the way from Pamplona to SDC, hanging off the outside of my pack. They were expensive and I did not want to discard them, even though they had given me trouble. I carried them back to Australia. I never wore them again. For ten years they sat in the cupboard. Eventually I threw them out. How we hang on to useless burdens!

 

[Purple Backpack]

I carried a pair of boots all the way from Pamplona to SDC, hanging off the outside of my pack. They were expensive and I did not want to discard them, even though they had given me trouble. I carried them back to Australia. I never wore them again. For ten years they sat in the cupboard. Eventually I threw them out. How we hang on to useless burdens!

~from themicrogardener.com

 

[eesaston]

My personal solution to a similar problem was to attach my backup shoes to the outside of my pack. I might have looked silly but had easy access to dry footwear without sacrificing storage space.

I agree. Boots are very space-consuming, unless you use a suitcase, it will not be able to be placed. In the existing conditions, hanging it outside the large backpack with a charger is a labor-saving option. You can also choose to carry it in a separate bag.

 

[Kanga]

@eesaston I think you are replying to a post written in 2016 - a trap for young players! We leave the old threads and posts there because some things don't change, and old information is often good information, but it helps to check the date of the posts.

 

[Dilbin]

Hello everyone,
I have been doing the Camino Frances in stages over the past three years using a Lowe Alpine Air Zone 35L backpack and I love it, and also love that I can manage to travel (fairly) lightly. Now I'm about to do the entire route in one go (gulp) but because of a foot issue a podiatrist I consulted has advised me to take boots and runners and to alternate wearing them according to weather and conditions. My trusty Lowe Alpine will not accommodate the boots (Scarpa) whenever I change into my runners - unless I pack little else! I would welcome any suggestions as to how much more capacity I would need in a backpack and what brands I might consider. I've been looking at the Gossamer Gear brand from a mention in another thread but it doesn't seem to be available from a Uk or Irish site. And this is fairly urgent as I fly out on Sept. 13th. Thanks in advance.

Hi Margaret. I appreciate your issue and need to bring alternative forms of foot wear. My backpack is not a brand name and 45litre. For your issue the backpack themselves are usually lightweight regardless of litre capacity so switching to a bigger backpack may indeed solve your problem. However with the boots/shoes inside that is quiet a bit of weight. As another pilgrim observed maybe a second pair of trail runners may be a better solution bearing in mind I've never yet had the need for boots on previous Caminos. Unless your podiatrist has specifically said otherwise. Enjoy your full Camino and hopefully you find a solution to this. Fellow Irish pilgrim Daniel

 

[Icacos]

Hi Margaret. I appreciate your issue and need to bring alternative forms of foot wear. My backpack is not a brand name and 45litre. For your issue the backpack themselves are usually lightweight regardless of litre capacity so switching to a bigger backpack may indeed solve your problem. However with the boots/shoes inside that is quiet a bit of weight. As another pilgrim observed maybe a second pair of trail runners may be a better solution bearing in mind I've never yet had the need for boots on previous Caminos. Unless your podiatrist has specifically said otherwise. Enjoy your full Camino and hopefully you find a solution to this. Fellow Irish pilgrim Daniel

This seems to be happening quite frequently recently … people responding to OPs not realizing that they are several years old. Perhaps it’s a sign of all of just wanting to get back to the camino, to walk and enjoy Spanish hospitality and the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims. Best wishes all