I kinda look at this as you would layer clothing for colder weather. When out sight seeing or simple day hikes, I tend to wear my Orvis travel vest (first layer)...ya, I know it's a cotton vest with mesh lining, not ideal for survival, but it works well when around a lot of other people and not far from civilization.
I'm currently working on replacing my small fanny pack (second layer...currently carries Kimber Ultra Compact .45). I've found these can carry those bare essentials and are easy to keep on you at all times. My Camal Back is another to consider here, they don't look to odd, are easy to throw on for a bike ride or walk around the town.
For short hikes or overnighter's, I must agree with Jeff about the Becker Patrol Pack (last layer). Mine is OD, still has that military look, but my excuse is that I am in the military
The number of quick access pockets, camal back compatible, divided interior and additional exterior add-on spots makes this a great short term BoB or for any day hikes. I thought at first it was a little small, but it's really easy to keep at hand and can be packed with all your short term essentials. Blackhawk Industries now has a larger version with about twice the cu inch capacity (RTO version)...a little to specialized (but again, I'am a commo dude
) I think you need to start adding a frame when you start to go over 30-40 pounds.
For the hiking/camping trips, I'll go with my Mountainsmith (sheeple safe), or with my CFP-90. Both can carry more weight than I'm willing to hump, but both are also quite comfortable wear. The reason for these choices are that I grew up with the good'ol Coleman style external frames...and they alwasy snagged brush and never really secure enough for climbing rough trails. Both of these internal frames snug the body and can be cinched down to avoid that "floppy" feeling. The only real draw back is the lack of air flow which can cause you to get a little sweaty, but I think the pay-offs are worth it.
As a side note, water is always a top priority, and I like camal backs, but I also had one punctured once duing some mountain biking. I always carry a Nagalene water bottle or what I've really come to appreciate are the good'ol GI 1qt plastic canteens (with cover and cup). I usually have one on my Becker or CFP-90 pack.
I have found it quite important as DANGELO pointed out, always keep the basics on your person! My vest and fanny pack are always very easy to leave on and even forget at times. And, if you've set up camp, it's nice to do day hikes around the area without all the heavy stuff.
The South African vest is very interesting and I've been tempted. You could probably even fool the anti-mil types that it's a "South African Cross Country Running Outfit"...?
Maybe I can use that one on my wife?
Dave
[This message has been edited by dp (edited 09-11-2000).]
