Gear Bag Help

Jax718

Jax718

Joined
Jan 19, 2008
Messages
360
I am looking for a small gear bag to use on short day hikes and to throw some gear in during the summer time when I have on shorts without a bunch of pockets. I have checked out some threads and looked at a few bags but I can't seem to find exactly what I'm looking for. I'm looking for a bag big enough to hold a few items like a phone, wallet, small pistol, possibly a bottle of water and a few other items. I don't really want a back pack or duffel bag as those are too big for what I'm looking for and I don't want anything too over the top. I would prefer one that is water proof and very durable. I would appreciate any recommendations you might have and pics would be great if you have any on hand. Thanks in advance for the input. This is my first post in the Wilderness & Survival Skills Forum, I posted this thread in the Gadgets and Gear but I think I will get more feedback from here.
 
saanichInlet064-1.jpg
 
Why don't you want a back pack? You can pick up a small one from REI/Walmart/bass pro etc that wont be heavy and will give you enough room to store the basics.

You might also look into one of those sinch/draw string bags. I picked up one from wal mart, all it is basically is a nylon bag with rope straps that you can pull tight and close the bag with. Its enough to carry the basics.

There are also some glorified fanny-packs out there now, My parents got me one with like 2 big compartments and a slot for a water bottle. I don't really like the feel or look of fanny packs but it might be OK for what you want.
 
If you can do the fanny pack thing, check out the Camelbak Goblin. Its designed for concealed carry.

The first generation Oakley Sandbag might have done you well too. Unfortunately they're discontinued and pretty scarce. If you see one, let me know :p.
 
I love my Maxpedition Jumbo Versipack, which contains a 'secret' rear pocket designed for concealed carry. It also includes a Nalgene bottle holder. It holds more than enough for any of my day hikes.
 
I like the Maxpedition Devil Dog, it can be worn as a lumbar pack or with a shoulder strap. If you are looking for something smaller the Remora is very nice.

mike032.jpg
 
Pidog,

Yep, you've set the standard around here pretty high, I'm having to step up...
 
Being hopelessly oldschool, I use an old milsurp canvas buttpack, or a Euro milsurp canvas assault pack, slung on a carry strap. Works fine, sufficiently waterproof that it will float, and as durable as can be.
 
I'm really curious as to why there aren't many people who like small backpacks for this purpose? If you size/wear a backpack correctly it would probably be the most comfortable IMO, especially one with a small hip strap (not neccesarily a bulky padded thing, but just a bit of flat strapping that secures in the front in order to keep the bottom of the pack from bouncing on your lower back. A shoulder strap carry would just be in the way and cumbersome. If you had a shoulder strap carry or a lumbar pack on you, good luck if you had to break into a run for any reason. You would probably end up losing the shoulder strap carry bag, and the lumbar pack would be flopping all over on you.

I wonder if the aversion to backpacks comes from the tendancy for backpack space to be vertically oriented. What I mean is that for most backpacks, you have to "stack" your items in the space, rather than having more "floor" space for the height? I can understand that I guess, but I'm sure there are backpacks out there that solve the vertical space problem with some good organizational innovations.

Any ideas on why people dont like backpacks??
 
The Maxpedition Jumbo is my choice as well. Very comfortable and carries everything I need.
 
I use a Camelbak MULE on my day hikes. I like it alot and it's got plenty of room for what I need.
 
This guy carries everything I need for a short hike.


/www.bladeforums.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=90976&d=1204628364
 
absolutindian said:
Any ideas on why people dont like backpacks??
Click to expand...

I generally prefer backpacks if I'm out in the woods and/or walking longer distances but I can see how a shoulder bag could be much more convenient in some situations. With a shoulder bag you have easy access to everything without having to take the bag off. Also when taking public transit it's a bit handier because you can sit without having to remove the bag. The Maxpedition bags include a belt loop on the back that I think would make them a bit less prone to flopping around if you had to move quickly. . . A backpack would still be better in that situation I'm sure but the belt loop would help.
 
Bah, just toss your lunch in a plastic shopping bag and tie the handles around your belt. When you're done, just chuck it in the bush somewhere with all the other ones...lol

I picked up one of these from MEC and love it (yeah, I'm sure they ship to the US too if you can afford the exchange - rofl)
MECbladder.jpg

Rides just as well on one shoulder as both. I usually carry a 35mm w/zoom,lunch,and 3l of water plus little stuff. $51 Can
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top