[pct-l] affordable lightweight advice?

[Jim & Jane Moody]

Myla, 

Don't worry - the Aura 65 will do fine.  I started a thru hike in 2010 with an Osprey Aether 70, and it did great.  Strong and rugged and capable of carrying all my gear, including bear canister through the Sierra.  I got hurt at Sonora Pass and couldn't finish that year.  In 2011 I carried the Aether sans removable top pocket , which reduced the weight so mewhat.  It was still plenty big for my gear north of Sonora Pass, since I didn't carry a bear canister. 



Because I'm old and have bad knees (and other leg problems) I started 2012 at Chester with a n e w strategy - fewer miles a day and less weight on my back.  I bought a ULA Circuit and a lighter sleeping bag, and I left the stove at home.  Since it was summer, I needed fewer clothes, so the Circuit and my reduced gear were significantly lighter, which helped the legs make about 600 miles before wildfires forced me off again.  



I plan on staying with the Circuit in moderate weather; it's comfortable and adequate for my gear.  However, if I were going thr o ugh the Sierra again, I would carry the Aether, for the increased strength and capacity.  Lindsey and Dennis were right - you can do just fine with the Osprey.  If you have an extra $200 to spend, I'd say look at your sleeping system, tent, and clothes first, before switching out the pack. 



Good luck, 

Mango 



----- Original Message -----


From: "Myla Fay" <mylafay at gmail.com> 
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Saturday, March 2, 2013 5:35:55 PM 
Subject: [pct-l] affordable lightweight advice? 

Anyone have experience using osprey packs on through hikes? I have 
an Osprey Aura 65. I got it as a gift and have found it comfortable for 
shorter trips, but it weighs around 3 pounds so it's not exactly 
lightweight. 

I've looked at gossamer and ULA packs and they look great, but 
unfortunately out of my budget. Does anyone have ideas for cheaper light 
backpack options? 

Thanks! 

-- 
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