In this video, we break down your day hiking gear essentials to ensure you’re prepared, comfortable, and ready to conquer any trail. We’ll cover everything from the ultimate day hike packing list to what to wear on a hike for maximum comfort and style.

Need tips on what to pack for hiking? We’ve got you. Think of this as your go-to hiking essentials guide, tailored for every adventure seeker. From hydration to snacks, layers to safety gear, this day hiking gear list is packed with practical tips to make your next hike as smooth as that scenic mountain trail. Perfect for beginners and pros alike, this guide ensures you won’t leave anything important behind. Watch now, and let’s make your next day hike unforgettable!

And hey, everyone, please welcome our new contributor, Elina Osborne! She’s a filmmaker and hiker, and you can check out her work here.

Featured gear:

Osprey Tempest Velocity 20L

Hikerkind Apparel

Injini Socks

HOKA Speedgoat 6

Arc’teryx Beta

Icebreaker Thermals

Nova UL Outdoor Vitals

Black Diamond Carbon Z

Sea to Summit First Aid Kit

Miir x Carryology Water Bottle

Lifestraw Peak 1L Collapsible Bottle

AllTrails App

Camera Gear Sony A7sIII + Lens: 20-70mm f4/0

DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Fujifilm: X100VI

Oben CTT-1000L Carbon Fiber Tripod

Peak Design Camera Clip

Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 Rechargeable Headlamp

Nitecore NU25 UL 400 Lumens Ultralight Headlamp

Garmin Inreach Mini 2

A heads up: Bellroy and Carryology share the same founders. You can read about our origin story here.

And hey, we’re reader-supported too, so if you find something that sparks your interest and click through and purchase via our affiliate links, sometimes we’ll get a little kickback from the brands or retailers. It helps us to make more content and build this channel. Although, we’ll just point out, some brands don’t have affiliate options, and that’s cool with us too. If the carry is awesome, we recommend it!

The post Day Hiking Gear Essentials | What to Pack! appeared first on Carryology.

Like and subscribe if you’d like more on the world or street and techwear insights.

Featured Brands:

ACRONYM

Bagjack

Arc’teryx Veilance

GOOPiMADE

Outlier

HAMCUS

We’re reader supported!

Hey folks, this channel is reader-supported, so If you find something that sparks your interest and click through and purchase via our affiliate links, sometimes we’ll get a little kickback from the brands or retailers. It helps us to make more content and build this channel.

And hey, we’ll just point out, some brands don’t have affiliate options, and that’s cool with us too. If the carry is awesome, we recommend it!

The post 5 Techwear Brands You Need to Know appeared first on Carryology.

As a youth, Falvai recalls his escapades with his father, scouring the aisles of the local department store for rocket kits and building them in his backyard. They were the kind they don’t make anymore: tall cardboard cylinders with gunpowder inside and batteries, engines, and fuses. Each launch was a mesmerizing spectacle as they pierced the heavens, leaving only wisps of smoke behind. 

In retrospect, he muses during our virtual call, he’s always been a self-professed “rocket nerd.”

So in 2016, when his inbox pinged with a new message from an engineer named Mike Miller from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), he leaned unusually far back in his seat. 

NASA was preparing for Mars Landing and they needed special packs to carry their equipment for their mission. They’d tried off-the-shelf solutions but nothing came close to their exacting standards. And so their research had brought them to Mark and Mission Workshop – and they believed Mark was the right person to help. 

The project would be challenging. It was called BASALT. And scientists and engineers were teamed up to simulate Mars exploration in volcanic terrains. They’d set up a communication system similar to what they’d need for Mars missions – this involved the astronauts carrying heavy GPS devices weighing 50 pounds – allowing crew members in the field to talk to those in a control center on Earth. 

The simulations would occur in three different volcanic terrains: Idaho, Hawaii, and Iceland. These terrains were intentionally rugged and mimicked Mars’s surface. It would be rocky, uneven ground where you might have to drop to your knees or swing a hammer just to get around, while lugging seriously heavy loads. The packs they’d tested before were heavy and had been torn to threads by jagged rock or melted by the acid rain found in the volcanic areas. There were also other challenges like access to their gear such as spare batteries and tablets. Protecting their comms devices from the outer space elements, high wind, rain, and extreme cold and heat. The differing heights and body shapes of their astronauts. And how to tell each specialist astronaut apart when on the Mars surface, so their comms lead could help manage the data collection in real time.

Mark tells me he underestimated the challenge and the intensity of working with NASA at the time, but he couldn’t say no; it was too damn interesting to pass up. 

Before he knew it, he was traveling to the Ames Research Center, located in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley. After passing through the many-tiered levels of security, he was chaperoned by a team of scientists and engineers and led to a meeting room full of equipment and wires and blueprints splayed across desks. He was shown the tools they’d use and the communications apparatus. He’d brought a first prototype based on their initial calls and whiteboard sketches, and they’d test it first in their Roverscape, a rocky outdoor area the size of two football fields, sitting in a trailer behind a big glass window to observe the test and gather their first design notes on changes and improvements.

“Development came right down to the wire”, Mark says. Each pack took 10 days to make and had to be handmade, to make sure that every stitch was perfect, and so he sewed into the night, finally shipping the eight packs needed to Idaho as NASA had just embarked on their plane flight. 

The backpack would be called the BASALT EVIB (EV = extravehicular and IB = Informatics Backpack) and Mission Workshop rolled along to the testing terrain, to chronicle and document the tests.

Mark had finely tuned the EVIB and it performed extremely well. It was a triumph of problem-and-solution design, and here’s how it shaped up…

Gear and Load

The softshell backpacks of the EVIB were tailored to accommodate the communications apparatus, including the GPS antennae, and were bolstered by an internal frame, added straps, reinforced double bartacking, COBRA buckles, and load lifters. Special attention was given to securely mounting the shoulder camera, antennae, and managing cable routing, ensuring convenient access to batteries. The communications batteries also got very hot, so Mark designed cooling ports for even airflow, an extraction point for the exhaust, and a shaped top-flap to cover the GPS and protect it from the elements, while allowing the antenna to poke out of the back for clear signals. 

Easy Access, Airflow and Setup

At the base of the pack, Mark added easy access via a base opening for the GPS apparatus, making it easier to slip the bag over the apparatus (instead of trying to place it in from the top). It also allowed easier access to the battery pack at the base so they could change the batteries out without taking everything apart. 

Teams of Varying Size

There was a “one size fits all” requirement for these backpacks, to minimize the daily changes between crews and to keep within the project budget. The issue was that each and every astronaut was different: some women in the team were 5’2” and some of the guys were 6’4”, over 10 inches difference. So Mark designed an all-new adjustable harness that moved on rails and interchangeable waist belts. 

As Little Weight As Possible (But Super Strong)

Standard fabrics like Cordura had failed – they were too heavy and melted in the acid rain. So Mark looked to UHMWPEs for a solution and landed on the newest technological innovation at the time: Challenge Sailcloth’s Ultra. It provided water, acid rain, and high abrasion resistance and cut the weight in half. The white color also helped reduce heating effects from the Sun. 

Unbreakable 

Plastic hardware wasn’t an option. When you’re spending hundreds of millions of dollars and traveling 300 million miles your equipment can’t fail. So AustriAlpin hardware was used in every possible way, ladder locks, slide buckles, and more. The base of the pack was triple-wrapped in fabric, and the frame was aeroplane-grade aluminium alloy.

Color-coding Teams

There were three teams on the mission, each with a different expertise and job. Mark told me, “ They kind of triangulate. So the ground team relays information from the mothership to the communications lead on the surface, and he or she relays that information to the team in the valley. And so that comms lead needs to know who’s who, and be able to understand this from quite a distance.” So he employed Mission Workshop’s ARKIV System and added colored pouches, allowing for a Red Team and Blue Team, for example. He also made sure the pouches had long toggles, so a gloved hand could access them easily, when they were collecting soil and rock samples. 

After Idaho, there was Hawaii and Iceland. Mark and Mission Workshop received footage of astronauts disappearing into volcanic terrain with their EVIBs strapped to their backs, and Mark continued to make small improvements. 

Mark tells me they’ve only recently been given clearance to share this story. Working with NASA, although a lifelong dream come true, also comes with secrecy and protecting the special innovations you make. 

He’s excited to talk about it now. And when I ask him about his favorite moment he gives a surprising answer. “It was making the cover of Astrobiology Journal. You know, because it was something really serious, and taken seriously by this whole world of the science community. It wasn’t the cover of a skateboard magazine or a fashion magazine, you know. It felt like the ultimate street cred,” he laughs. 

He also tells me the EVIBs he designed are being used on another mission. There are moon bases to be built and construction work to be performed on the moon, so the EVIBs can be tailored to that scenario too. But that won’t be an issue, I suspect. Not for a self-professed ‘rocket nerd’ like Mark. 

As we get off the call, Mark and I play a round of what ifs, imagining what a NASA-inspired pack might look like in the everyday world. It was a fun idea, and so we get our teams together and threw some more ideas around… started to shoot for the stars…

And the rest, they say, is history… 

The post Mission to Mars | Designing Backpacks for NASA appeared first on Carryology.

Let’s talk steel. They’ve chosen the full tang CPM MagnaCut steel, one of the toughest and most durable metals. This steel has been making a considerable impact on the outdoor market due to its toughness, wear resistance, and edge retention. The full tang eight-inch blade adds the durability that any knife intended for rough use might need. The blade is DLC coated to improve corrosion resistance. The handle is crafted out of G10, and with the bolster area crafted with jimping, the handle holds very well, even if your hands get covered in fish oil. The return has a nice curve that holds your finger well for added stability.

I was stoked to receive this knife as I am a massive fan of The James Brand and carry the Carter daily. Their craftsmanship is always impressive, and their designs are always works of art. The Anzick is no exception. When you receive it, the packaging is incredible, and the sheath is a snap-lock Hypalon. The knife itself is one that you almost want to frame and just look at… but, hey, you need to use your gear. 

Pros

The knife works as a great all-around knife. If you want to take this out camping, you can do everything from peeling vegetables to filleting a large fish. I have used this knife for about six months, both camping and in the home, and it has performed very well. The edge held for months before I needed to have it sharpened. The handle is comfortable and, as previously mentioned, grips well even when wet or oily. When held properly, the jimping helps maintain a nice feel and doesn’t slip.

Cons

My first thought when I opened the knife was how thin the blade was, from top to bottom. Back in my kitchen days, we would call this a knuckle buster. The blade is thin enough that when you slice down, you can end up hitting your knuckles on the cutting board. But if you had a larger knife, it would’nt pack as well when traveling. This was a minimal issue, but if you have big hands, this might be an issue with extended use. 

While this knife is currently sold out, it is a solid knife, and if they do another run of them, I recommend picking one up. The price tag of $499 is a little steep, but the quality and design make that price tag worth it. This is a knife that will last you for years to come. 

The post The James Brand x SITKA Anzick Review appeared first on Carryology.

His advice stuck with me as I continued my 6-week journey through Europe: schlepping my things from train station to hostel; packing and repacking so as to fit it on a Ryanair flight; and the constant feeling of relief whenever I dropped it on the ground and abandoned it for a while. It would be nice to have a smaller bag, I thought. So what could I pack less of? 

After five years and thousands of miles of travel, I finally acted on his advice. I downsized from a 48L to a 22-25L bag for any trip one week or longer. Even if it seems extreme, I recommend it for anyone who wants to:

• Avoid paying for checked bags (even on budget airlines or basic economy tickets)
• Easily take public transportation or walk a few blocks with your luggage
• Spend less time packing and unpacking
• Feel less burdened by your stuff

Interested? Read on to see packing lists, tips, and inside my bag and get inspired on how to pack light for a week (or more) of travel.

The bag: Charlie 25L

I’d spent the majority of my 20s traveling with the Osprey Kestrel 48. While it had begun to feel too big for my needs, it had some features I’d come to love and want in my next bag: the separate top and outside mesh pockets, comfortable hip straps, and lightweight, durable material. I also found the ability to access the main pack from the top and bottom handy, but knew it might be hard to find a smaller bag with this feature. Initially, I switched to the Osprey Talon 22, a day bag that excels at its intended purpose—day hikes and moving around town—but was also a good fit for multi-day, ultralight travel. Recently, I switched it out for the similarly sized backpack, Charlie 25L by Remote Equipment, which is better designed for travel.

The pros

• Size and space: With a 25-liter volume (expandable to 30+ liters), the backpack has plenty of space for a week’s worth of clothes and travel essentials. To travel as light as possible, I often leave the removable top pocket at home. However, it does help seal the bag and make it fully waterproof—I’m more likely to keep it on for that reason vs. the extra capacity.
• Organization: The triple-cavity organization system provides effective compartmentalization that’s ideal for travel. Two inner pockets, water bottle pockets, and a laptop sleeve help provide additional organization. Additionally, it has top-loading access and a front access zipper so you can access everything without emptying your entire bag.
• Weight: Weighing 2.19 pounds (992 grams), the Charlie 25L is heavier than the Osprey Talon I used to use, but lighter than many carry-on travel backpacks. Fortunately, hip straps (a rarity in non-hiking backpacks of this size) help distribute weight and make it comfortable to wear even when loaded up.
• Comfort: The backpack features ergonomic shoulder straps with dual-density foam and a stepped back panel design for comfort and breathability. The removable waist and sternum straps also enhance stability and help balance weight. Although designed for commuting and urban scenarios, I found it comfortable to wear while hiking and had no issues using it as my main pack while hiking for 4 days on the Kumano Kodo trail of Japan.
• Look and feel: I love the stylish, modern design and look of this bag. Unlike some other backpacks, which can feel bulky and dorky, this one is sleek and just plain cool.
• Durability: Constructed with Challenge Outdoor ECOPAK fabric, the backpack is environmentally friendly, waterproof, and abrasion-resistant. The materials used, including Spectra fiber and high-density polyethylene, contribute to the backpack’s durability.
• Waterproof: I walked for 2 hours in the rain (some of it torrential) and everything inside my pack was totally dry when I finally arrived at my hotel. If that isn’t a bode of confidence for its waterproofness, I don’t know what is.

The cons

• Value: Priced at $269, the Charlie 25L isn’t cheap but this is on par with other bags of its category. I think its quality construction and versatile design justifies the cost. So far, it’s proven to be a durable, feature-rich backpack, and the price isn’t too different from other, similar backpacks.
• Access: When my bag is full, I’ve had a little trouble accessing the small inner pockets and quickly taking my laptop in/out of the laptop sleeve. But neither is a deal breaker.

The packing tips: How to pack light for a week in a 25L bag

Packing this light isn’t always easy for all travelers, but below are a few strategies I use to pack light enough to fit everything I need for a week (or longer) in a 22-25L bag:

1. Pack three days’ worth of clothes

Don’t assume you need seven outfits for a seven-day trip. Instead, pack three knowing you can mix and match those items to create enough options for your entire trip. Take a capsule wardrobe approach and focus on basics and versatile pieces that are easy style for many occasions.

2. Limit your shoes to 1-2 pairs max

Shoes also tend to take up a large portion of our bags: bring 1-2 pairs max. For cold weather trips, I bring one versatile pair of waterproof boots that I can use for urban and outdoor adventure (I like Sorel’s line of Chelsea boots for this). For warm-weather trips, I wear one pair of slip-on sandals (right now, my go-to is the Crescent Slip-On by Roam) and pack a pair of super packable, lightweight, water-friendly sneakers by Tropicfeel (currently, I wear the Jungle model).

3. Bring the smallest version of your toiletries

With limited space to use, you won’t catch me traveling with a 12-ounce bottle of shampoo—or even a 3.4 ounce, most trips. Keep everything as small as possible—you typically need less than you think, anyway.

4. Bring what you know you’ll need, not what you think you’ll need

“The space in our pack is a precious commodity. It should be used efficiently and guarded from our own laziness of packing items ‘just in case’. Yes, we should be prepared. But let’s be smart about it,” advises the Carryology HQ team in The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel. Though in reference to hiking, it applies to travel as well. Trust that you can pick up most ‘just in case’ items on the road if and when you actually need them. Stick to only bringing the “know I’ll need” items.

5. Pack a couple of days in advance, then revise

When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to pack too much—or all the wrong stuff. To avoid this, set aside time a few days before your trip to gather everything you’ll need. Then, the day before, take a second pass at everything. Is there anything you forgot? Anything you could omit? Do you really need five t-shirts?

6. Use compression packing cubes

Packing cubes help keep items in your bag organized while traveling, but compression cubes also do this and help you fit more in a small space. Make use of compression cubes, like Thule’s Compression Cubes, to make your items more compact.

7. Roll or fold, it doesn’t matter

The TL;DR on this debate is no, rolling clothes instead of folding them does not save you more space in your bag—though it does better organize it. Do whichever you prefer.

An ultralight packing list for a week in a 22-25L bag

Although your exact packing list will vary depending on your personal preferences, trip, and time of year, use this base as an example of what will fit and inspiration for figuring out your own packing list.

Clothing

Clothes take up the most space in our bag while traveling, so it’s worth focusing a good amount of energy here. Pare down to the essentials, and pick items that aren’t overly bulky. You don’t necessarily have to go out and buy travel-specific clothing—there’s a lot you can do with just your existing closet— but there are a couple of items you may want to invest in. For example:

• Underwear: 3-5 pairs, depending on if you’re willing to do laundry or not.
• Bras: 1-2 (one sports bra, one non)
• Socks: 1-4 pairs, depending on your shoes. I like Smartwool’s Merino wool socks since they’re easy to wash on the road.
• Tops: 3 total (e.g. 1 tank, 1 t-shirt, 1 long-sleeve)
• Warm sweater or sweatshirt: 1 neutral, versatile option.
• Jacket: pack 1 or none, depending on climate. For spring trips, go for a lightweight rain jacket. For colder climates a down jacket, like Columbia or Patagonia, packs down best.
• Pants: 2 pairs of pants
• Skirt/shorts: 1 total, not each.
• Bathing suit: Men, a multi-purpose pair of shorts like Patagonia’s all-wear hybrid shorts make the best travel swimsuits.
• Shoes: Wear one, pack one, and try to limit yourself to no more than 2 pairs of shoes. For runs and hikes, choose something that packs down small, like Tropicfeel’s line of sneakers.
• Hat (optional)

Toiletries

For your toiletries, give yourself a “one bag challenge” (that’s right, no separate makeup and toiletry bag). Grab a small-ish dopp kit and pack:

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste (use Matador’s refillable toothpaste tubes or Humankind’s toothpaste tablets if you want to avoid buying mini travel toothpaste)
• Shampoo, or Dr Bronner’s, which doubles as body wash and shampoo.
• Conditioner
• Lotion
• Face wash and skincare
• Deodorant
• Sunscreen
• Razor
• Tweezers
• Band-aids
• Pills and first-aid
• Comb
• Makeup (optional)
• Bug spray (if needed)

To lighten your toiletry load, use reusable containers such as those by GoToob or Cadence to decant your favorite toiletries into small containers with just enough for the trip at hand. I find that GoToob’s 1.25oz containers can hold enough shampoo or conditioner for a week-long trip, whereas Cadence’s smallest containers, at 0.56 ounces, are ideal for things like makeup, serums, and face lotion.

Electronics

Like everything in your pack, avoid redundancies with your electronics too (e.g. packing a laptop, tablet, and smartphone). Generally, the most I’m ever bringing is a kindle, phone, laptop, and camera, though usually I won’t bring all four. Here’s an example packing list for your electronics:

• Phone
• Laptop (optional)
• Camera (optional)
• Kindle (optional)

Accessories

• Chargers
• Multi-purpose brick (I like the Anker 737 charger, so I can bring just one brick for phone, laptop, and everything else)
• External battery pack (the Anker 622 is compact and doubles as a phone stand ideal for watching in-flight movies)
• Adapters, if you’re going to another country. Apple has a well-made set that lets you pack only the one (or two) adapters you need.

In-flight essentials

To stay comfortable while flying, you could go extra minimalist and pack nothing but a warm jacket, phone, and earbuds to keep you comfortable and entertained. But if you have extra room (which you should), add these items:

• Headphones: To save space, I stick to Apple’s AirPods. Other headphones may have better noise-canceling capabilities and comfort but when it comes to saving space, the AirPods are hard to compete with. Plus, the most recent generation has come a long way in terms of filtering out unwanted noise.
• Headphone adaptor: Although some airlines are adding the ability to connect bluetooth devices to your personal TV, it’s not standard (yet!). The AirFly adaptor allows you to connect your headphones to TVs in flights and is a handy, and tiny, addition to my in-flight kit.
• Travel pillow: I don’t usually bring a travel pillow unless the flight is more than 6 hours long. When I do, I reach for the Trtl Pillow, which is more compact than a traditional U-shaped foam pillow.
• Water bottle: Vapur is one of the most compact water bottles around.
• Eye mask: Muji make good ones for travel.

Other travel gear

You don’t need much beyond your clothes, toiletries, in-flight essentials, and electronics—especially since you’ll be able to pick up most emergency items on the road. But a couple of extras you shouldn’t forget:

• Passport (if traveling abroad)
• Wallet (if you usually carry something bulky, consider a slimmer travel wallet)
• Snacks
• Pen

How low can you go?

Packing for a full week of travel (or longer!) in a 22L backpack may seem crazy, unnecessary, or just too difficult. But it’s also such a great feeling to travel without the burden of things on your back. So why not give it a go? After a little practice and thoughtful crafting of your own ultralight packing list, I’m sure you can downsize your bag and pack extra light for a week of travel too. 

This article was written by Jessie Beck. Check out her blog at eatbiketravel.com.

The post How to Pack Light for a Week: Tips, Lists, and Bags appeared first on Carryology.

If you’re new to the Forecast, the digital report is our annual snapshot that aims to shed light on what the carry world will look like in 2024 and beyond. For us, it’s a chance to pause and make sense of all that caught our attention from across the year. We explore how everything from pop culture to innovations by big brands or new releases from local artisans might converge or diverge in the coming year. It’s not about prescribing what should happen but plotting where things are heading. For us, it’s about doing our small part to keep designers and brands in tune with future needs and wants, and hopefully avoiding wasted effort and energy. Given today’s climate, being mindful of how we expend energy has never been more important.

So what are we seeing on the cards in 2024? One thing that keeps surprising us is all the positivity in response to the heavy times. Despite all the scary seismic shifts taking place like climate change or AI, there’s an undercurrent of fun and optimism that’s popping up in all sorts of unusual ways. Ranging from the craziness of Marshall Columbia to the futuristic utopia of the Moncler Art of Genius event, designers are putting out good vibes. It’s as if optimism has become its own form of resistance or future-proofing.

Another noteworthy theme that’s running through 2024 is the continued rise of conscious design. Design that isn’t just about aesthetics or function but carries ethical, transparent, and broader societal considerations. Take for example the emergence of brutalist design in the carry world, from brands such as GR10K which takes authenticity to a new level. Or the pushback against greenwashing in the new EU through their new transparency labeling. It’s possible that the design world is reaching a new level of maturity. The “Soft Life” trend, focusing on better quality sleep and general well-being, is a case in point, showing how brands are placing more importance on healthy or mindful values.

This quick rundown is just the tip of the iceberg. For those who want to delve deeper, our comprehensive 40-page 2024 Forecast is available for free download from today here. Inside, you’ll find an in-depth analysis of these themes, as well as coverage of the details we see shaping design in the coming year.  We’d love you to take the time to check it out, share it, and let us know what you think. If you have any insights or questions, you can find us at contact@softservestudio.com.

The post Design Talk | 2024 Trend Forecast appeared first on Carryology.

What is “Mid-Country”?

Most people, regardless of experience, are familiar with the idea of “backcountry”. It’s where you go when you want to get away from people. You strap on your pack, tie down your bivy, and head out into the wilderness to “get off grid” or “live off the land”. If you’re someone who has been fortunate enough to be introduced to outdoor activities and feels comfortable in austere environments, the idea of a two-day backpacking trip probably isn’t that intimidating to you. However, if you’ve never even been car-camping, the idea of having to sleep outside, bring your own food and water, and running into a plethora of potential problems while miles away from civilization might be enough to stop you from diving all in. That’s the idea of backcountry–the barriers to access are high enough that (most) people will take the time to acquire the skills and resources to successfully be in those environments–the more remote, the higher the barrier to entry, the (hypothetically) more prepared people will be before they even attempt to adventure.

Take this in relation to “frontcountry” which might be your town’s local trail system or hiking area. Maybe you can see the parking lot the whole time you’re out and you’ll probably pass at least a few people in various iterations of outdoor gear ranging from tacticool to yoga-dad. Anyone can easily access the outdoors at these places and even the most ill-prepared adventurer will have a myriad of resources to help them if they get into trouble. It’s easy to get to, and easy to stay safe.

Enter “midcountry”. In my town, it’s the back side of the local mountain range: about a 40-minute drive from town and while the front side of the range is most definitely “frontcountry”, the back side doesn’t seem too intimidating to the average recreational enthusiast. Usually this doesn’t present a problem and thousands of hikers, climbers, walkers, and bikers head out into the mountains and come back without any problems. However, places that I classify as midcountry are places that can easily get wild with a variety of weather, terrain, or other dangers, throwing some less experienced outdoorists in way over their heads. In my own backyard this often means rallying our local volunteer mountain rescue group to assist a hiker who got lost on an unmarked trail or a group who came underprepared for changing weather conditions.

Now before we go too far, I want to make it perfectly clear that my goal is not to scare you away from pushing your limits and heading outside–just the opposite in fact. No matter what your skill level, I want to encourage you to head outdoors as much as possible, but I also want to make sure you come back and while I can’t protect you from a rogue wildcat or freak avalanche, I can help you be prepared. So without any further ado, here are the 10 things you need to bring with you before heading into the front, middle, or backcountry.

1. Knowledge is power

Okay, so I lied. First off, the list will have 11 things and second off, here’s some further ado. The next 10 things on this list are absolutely useless without proper knowledge. As an Emergency Medicine doctor who sometimes operates in austere settings, I see tons of people stocking first aid supplies that would rival the kit I carry in a critical care helicopter, but carrying these things into the wilderness without knowing how to use them is akin to putting me in the cockpit of an F16: It’s gonna make me feel really cool, but I’m probably more likely to hurt myself than anything else and I’m definitely not carrying an F16 in my pack for my overnight camping trip. Same goes for that $1000 GPS you just bought…it might have a 7-week battery life and have topographical accuracy to within 17 inches, but if your ability to use it starts and ends with “red button turns it on” it might as well be an expensive rock at the bottom of your pack.

Investing in your knowledge by taking a Wilderness First Aid course through the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) or upping your navigation game by meeting up with your local Orienteering Club is probably a better use of your time AND money than almost anything else. Another huge advantage to meeting locals in your community is meeting mentors who can help you advance your skills safely, not to mention often helping you find deals on used or high-quality, entry-level gear when you’re first getting started.

2. Navigation: Get There and Get Back

Arguably one of the most important parts of an adventure is where you’re going and how you’re going to get back. Depending on your destination, that powerful GPS-enabled supercomputer in your pocket might be all you need. I usually make sure my destination is downloaded on Google Maps, or another outdoor navigation app such as AllTrails, or Garmin Earthmate ahead of time and if I’m relying on my phone for anything important it’s not a bad idea to bring some extra juice.

If you want to leave the phone behind (hint: don’t do that in case of emergency. Maybe just turn it off), you can try a standalone option. Many of the new Garmin Watches have preloaded and downloadable topo maps and you can even plot your route in advance.

For the low-tech, nothing beats a good map and compass. As mentioned above, make sure you know how to use them, but sometimes there’s nothing more satisfying than some analog navigation.

3. Communication: Can You Hear Me Now?

As above, sometimes the best tool for the job is the one you already have, and many frontcountry areas will have great cell reception. That being said, having an emergency communication device might save your life and can be a relatively small investment if you’ll be spending time outdoors, especially alone. I’ve had the Garmin inReach Mini for several years now and while neither the device nor the monthly subscription is cheap, it gives me the confidence that I can always get in touch with loved ones (or rescue crews) in a pinch and with a live tracking option my support crew can follow me on longer adventures to make gear or supply drops.

Again, if you’re looking to get away from technology, having a whistle and signal mirror (again, prior knowledge required to use) are the minimum requirements to stay safe without taking up too much space. While any whistle will do, we know that Carryology fans have a slight penchant for overly-engineered products so checking out the Fox 40 and Vargo titanium whistles might be a good way to spend a few extra bucks.

4. Light: Like a Moth to a Headlamp

The number of times I’ve headed out on a late afternoon run or ride and ended up coming back in the dark with only my cell phone light is almost equal to the number of times my cell phone has run out of battery about half a mile from the car. Carrying an emergency light source, even if you plan to be back well before sunset, can not only save your butt, but give you flexibility to take your time, watch the sunset, or explore that new trail offshoot.

Recently, I’ve been throwing the BioLite 325 headlamp into my pack anytime my adventures might butt up against sunset. It’s small enough to fit in a running vest or even jacket pocket but is WAY better than a phone light if you find yourself on the trail after dark. For those times when your intention is to be out past twilight, I’d recommend the BioLite 800 Pro which is comfortable enough for trail running and has enough juice to last you until sunrise.

5. Sun Protection: Not just sunscreen and funny hats

Actually, it is kind of all about sunscreen and funny hats. While you may not think about sun protection when the ground is covered in snow, you’re equally as likely to have problems from sun exposure when it’s cold out compared to when it’s warm. Tailor your wardrobe appropriately (more on this later) for the season but don’t forget eyewear, head coverings, and a good ol’ dollop of white stuff on any areas not covered by clothing. At Carryology, we’re fans of Zealios sunscreen (as well as their other offerings) in terms of protection and water resistance.

If you’re looking to keep the sun off your dome, the Filson Summer Packer Hat looks good on the trail and at the bar afterwards and will keep your ears from getting fried. If you’re more of a cap kinda person, I tend to rock a local maker, Send It Safely, but I always support finding your own local flavor.

6. First Aid: Boo-boos and Bandaids

This is always a contentious backcountry topic and you can go as far down the rabbit hole of wilderness medical kits as you like. Our best advice is to separate your kit into “life-saving” and “comfort”. For me, I file things like tourniquets under life-saving. On the other hand, as someone who is prone to migraines at high altitude, I never go anywhere without 1000mg of Tylenol as part of my comfort kit. No, we’re not going to give you any medical advice here, but if you’re looking for a solid, reputable, pre-packaged system that doesn’t go over the top but has enough to keep you safe and comfortable, Adventure Medical Kits makes a variety of outdoor-oriented offerings that won’t break the bank.

7. Knife: That’s Not a ____

Of all the things on this list, this is the one I am LEAST qualified to talk about. I’ve been carrying the same Leatherman Skeletool for pretty much as long as I can remember. Instead, take some advice from Taylor Weldon on pocket knives or the Carryology HQ Team if you want some truly drool-worthy blades. For me, the important part is to have a tool that can cut my steak, widdle a stick, strike on a flint, and open a beer. For you, it might be important to be able to field dress a squirrel or fight a ninja. Whatever it is, having a reliable tool is important but doesn’t need to break the bank.

After hearing that I knew pretty much nothing about knives, Benchmade was kind enough to send over one of their Bugout models to teach me a thing or two. Not only is this an easy blade to take care of, but it’s light enough that even my weight-weenie partner will carry it on one of her ultra-light trips without TOO much complaining.

8. Fire: Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot

Again, this is not something you might think of when taking your dogs out for a quick stroll on the local trails, but carrying the right supplies to start a fire can be crucial if you find yourself lost in the backcountry. Not only does fire provide heat, water sterilization, and a possible signal for help, but it also improves morale, which can be vital in real survival situations.

If you’re carrying a knife, you might just need to add a ferro rod to your pack which doesn’t cost much and doesn’t take up space. I carry a bit of a DIY fire kit and the Firebiner from Outdoor Element which weighs practically nothing. You could also opt for a small tin of waterproof matches, or your favorite classic Zippo Lighter. Again, these tools are useless without appropriate knowledge so study up!

9. Shelter/Clothing: AKA FASHION

The survival rule of 3s says that you can survive 3 weeks without food, 3 days without water, and 3 hours without shelter. At minimum I always bring some kind of emergency shelter such as a space blanket if I plan to go anywhere even remotely wild. Depending on your season, getting too hot or too cold (sometimes both) can be your biggest safety issue. Knowing how to layer is probably the most important part of any big outing in terms of staying comfortable.

This season I’ve been using a combination of gear from prAna and Mountain Hardwear. The Stretch Zion Shorts from prAna are pretty much the most comfortable pair I own, and unlike many other cargo shorts, can actually be worn in public without being ashamed that you’re wearing cargo shorts (they look that good!). On warm days, you can pair that with the Kirkwood button-up and easily go from trails to the bar without an outfit change.

On a bit chillier note, Mountain Hardwear has been bringing the fire to keep you warm as winter approaches. The Kor AirShell Jacket is something I’ve been bringing with me pretty much every time I head out and has quickly become my favorite ultralight windshell. Paired with the Mountain Stretch Hoody and the Stryder Pants, you can head out for a day in nature and be covered for any temperature or conditions.

10. Food: It’s What’s for Dinner (and Lunch, and Breakfast…and Snacks)

Even if I think I’m just going out for a quick 30-minute trail run I’ll always stuff a gel or a bar in my pocket or running vest. At worst you’ve added an extra 3oz of weight and forget about it, only to find an expired GU in the wash 3 months from now. At best you prevent bonking when your easy recovery run accidentally turns into an all-day affair. If you plan on going on a longer trip, it’s never bad to treat yourself to a warm meal by bringing your Jetboil and some dehydrated food pouches or an outdoor coffee setup.

11. Water: H2 OH YEAH

You’d think this would be a no-brainer but bringing the right amount of water is always difficult. I tend to either over-prepare and end up lugging 10L of water on the last day of a backpacking trip or under-prepare and finish my ride at the car with a dry, parched throat. As a general rule of thumb, I usually assume I’ll drink about 750ml water per hour, with adjustments made depending on the season, activity, and my own fitness level. If you’re going somewhere where flowing water is available, something like a small Sawyer water filter might help keep your back happy by reducing carried water weight and your stomach happy by keeping out bad bugs.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it, 10 (plus a bonus) things you need to consider to stay safe whether you’re on your local trails or in the middle of Antarctica. Obviously as your needs and adventures change, your loadout will as well. While some of us relish being able to have a specialized kit for hiking vs. biking vs. paragliding, others prefer to have a jack-of-all-trades pack ready to go on any adventure at any time. While I might not carry an expedition tent on my evening dog walk, I’m not here to yuck your yum. The most important thing about getting outside is doing it in a way that’s both safe and fun.

Do you have gear that you won’t leave home without? What’s your most ridiculous story of being over or under-prepared for an adventure? Join our community and let us know!

This article was written by Jeff Wayland, trail runner, backpacker, cyclocross racer, fledgling paragliding pilot, and wannabe DIY pack maker.

The post Beginner’s Guide | Gear to Stay Safe Outside appeared first on Carryology.

The snow’s fallen, the conditions are just right, and the slopes are calling. It’s a thing of beauty…and we’re not just talking physically. The freedom, the thrill and the adrenaline-pumping action are hard lures for a snowboarder or skier to resist. But to really make the most of a snow outing you need suitable gear in addition to proper experience and knowledge. A good pack can make the difference between a great adventure and a potentially disastrous one.

So we’ve highlighted some points to consider when choosing your pack, along with some of the best snowboarding and ski backpacks of 2023 to suit your needs and budget.

Size

How long will your trip be? Where will you go? How much gear do you need to carry? Thinking about these questions will help you decide what size of pack is best suited to your needs. For minimalist carry setups and short excursions up to around 20L of pack volume should get the job done. If you need to pack a little extra for longer day trips, consider packs around the 20L to 35L range. Look upwards of this range if you’re planning overnight or hut tours (around 35L to 55L) or multi-day trips with equipment such as a tent and cooking gear (around 60L to 70L).

Fit

If your pack doesn’t fit well it won’t be comfortable for long hours on the slopes. Plus it could potentially reduce your stability and freedom of movement  – not a situation you want to be in when trying to stay safe on the snow. Remember, the fit will change once you start filling the bag. So if you can, try the pack on in person and load it up with snow gear before you buy it. Also make sure it suits your torso length (some packs offer adjustable torso lengths). In addition, some packs come in gender-specific options which will suit male and female users respectively.

Safety Gear Storage

In an emergency time is precious. You don’t want to waste it trying to get to hard-to-reach safety gear. Your pack should provide designated storage for snow tools such as a probe and shovel, ideally within their own compartment and easily accessible without having to remove the skis or board. Make sure the gear is stored internally rather than attached externally to the pack (which helps reduce the chances of it being ripped off or lost from snagging, accidents or avalanches). Look for organization pockets too; they’ll help you access safety gear faster and more easily.

Access

Rummaging for gear is both frustrating and a waste of time, so try to ensure your pack offers convenient access to the contents. Back panel access to the main compartment is handy for reaching gear throughout the compartment, plus it helps to keep snow off the back panel when laying the pack down to get to gear. Ideally look for at least two access options (such as top and back, back and side, etc.) to maximize efficient access to gear throughout the pack.

Key Features

Your pack should cater to your specific needs, which might change depending on different trips. However, there are a few key features that are handy to have for a range of trips. For instance, exterior loops to carry an ice axe, a helmet carry system to keep the helmet secure when not in use, and quick-access storage for goggles. Plus you may find it useful having additional attachment points for extra gear as required. Think about what carry requirements you really need your pack to handle, and choose accordingly.

Durability

Skiing and snowboarding can be tough on your carry gear, so a solid build is key. It doesn’t need to be built like a fortress (remember, the more durable a bag is, the heavier it likely is). But you never know when the bag may scrape past tree branches or unforgiving rock faces. Plus your gear can be hard on your pack too. So it should at least offer abrasion-resistant fabric in areas of high wear, such as the bottom of the pack or where the sharp edges of snow safety gear, skis or a snowboard may connect with the fabric. Also think about reinforced seams and stitching in high-stress areas if you’re going to be making big demands of your gear and/or hauling heavy loads.

Weatherproofness

You’re going to be in wet and snowy conditions. So it makes sense your gear should have at least some degree of water resistance. Consider features such as water-resistant coatings, a back panel designed to shed snow, water-resistant zippers, sealed seams, and storm flaps over zippers. The degree of weatherproofness you need will be trip, gear and environment-specific. In general (but not always) expect to pay a little extra the more weatherproof a pack is. However, if you’re on a budget you can pick up some inexpensive dry bags (or even trash bags) to provide extra protection for important items such as clothing and electronics that you don’t want to get wet.

Ski and Snowboard Carry

Different packs will carry skis and boards in different ways. For instance, some may offer vertical or horizontal board carry, diagonal or A-frame ski carry, or a mixture of options. Ideally look for a pack that gives you more options rather than less, as this will give you greater carry flexibility in a range of environments. For example A-frame carry can keep the load more stable but will be a hindrance in areas with low-hanging branches or rocks. If you can, try to get the attachment strap measurements before buying the pack so you can check they’ll accommodate your skis or board.

Hydration Bladder Compatibility

Having a pack with hydration bladder compatibility means easy access to water without having to slow down or remove the pack. Ideally the bag should offer insulated routing along the shoulder strap for the hose, with designated storage for the bladder and an exit port for the tube.

Suspension System

A good suspension system will help keep you comfortable on the go, enhance load stability, and assist with carrying heavier loads. Look for elements such as a comfortable and adjustable sternum strap and waist belt, a suitably rigid frame to suit the load, and comfortable padding in the straps and waist belt. Compression straps also help bring the load closer to your body for better stability and comfort.

Airbags

It’s important to note that backpacks with airbags won’t guarantee you will survive an avalanche or won’t get injured. However, they can greatly reduce the chances of injuries (particularly to the head and neck), as well as offering the added bonus of keeping you as close to the snow’s surface as possible. This will make the rescue process easier and faster, thereby boosting your survival chances. There is of course no requirement to get a pack with an avalanche airbag, and they will be heavier and more expensive than snow packs without an airbag system. However, it’s worth considering getting such a pack in areas that are prone to avalanches (plus it can boost your peace of mind). Remember it’s important to be aware of and implement appropriate snow safety knowledge at all times, and to know how to use avalanche safety gear appropriately. A variety of avalanche and snow safety courses are available to help keep you and your trip companions safe and prepared on the slopes.

Our Selections

Osprey Glade 12 (US$77.50)

The Osprey Glade 12 demonstrates that functional snow packs don’t need to break the bank. The hydration bladder compatible pack offers a slim profile for carrying the essentials without unnecessary bulk and enabling easy chair lift rides. It offers quick-access storage for smaller items, is made with water-resistant bluesign® approved recycled materials, and provides vertical and horizontal snowboard carry and diagonal ski carry. 

Pros:

– Great value for money

– Sustainable bluesign® approved recycled materials

– Vertical/horizontal board carry and diagonal ski carry

– Hydration bladder compatible

Cons:

– Compact volume won’t suit those needing to carry larger loads

– Basic stabilizing hip belt doesn’t provide much comfort

Osprey Soelden 22 (US$92.50)

The Osprey Soelden 22 is a lightweight, durable pack designed for active backcountry use. The suspension enables dynamic movement while keeping the load comfy and stable. The pack provides easy front access to snow tools, while full panel back access provides easy packing and gear retrieval. There’s also a quick-access top pocket for goggles and other small items. The pack enables vertical board carry and both diagonal and A-frame ski carry. And if you want a women-specific fit, check out the Sopris 20.

Pros:

– Vertical board carry and diagonal/A-frame ski carry

– Quick access to snow tools and goggles

– Good value for money

Cons:

– Basic webbing hip belt doesn’t offer much comfort

Mammut Aenergy ST 20-25 (US$95)

The Mammut Aenergy ST 20-25 takes inspiration from trail running vests to keep the load close to the body and bounce-free on the move. The roll-top closure provides flexible volume, while rear access lets you easily pack and reach items in the main compartment. The pack’s front pocket offers dedicated storage for snow tools, while additional gear loops and daisy chain provide added carrying options for larger items. Added bonus? You can snag it at a great price too.

Pros:

– Lightweight build and trail running inspired harness helps keep you moving agilely

– Dedicated storage for snow tools

– Rear access for easy packing and gear retrieval in the main compartment

– Good value for money

Cons:

– Could benefit from additional quick-access pockets for smaller items

– Relatively small capacity may not suit those needing to carry large loads

Burton [ak] Dispatcher 18L Backpack (US$96.99)

The Burton [ak] Dispatcher 18L Backpack is designed to provide everything you need for a day on the slopes, with nothing you don’t. The pack is hydration bladder compatible and offers dedicated storage for snow tools and goggles. You also benefit from quick-access hip belt pockets and a clean, comfy design. The pack is made with sustainable bluesign® materials and backed by a lifetime warranty too.

Pros:

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Dedicated storage for snow tools and goggles

– Good value for money

Cons:

– May not suit those seeking to carry larger loads

Dakine Heli 12L Backpack (US$99.95)

The Dakine Heli 12L backpack is designed for carrying the essentials, and features exterior storage for a shovel along with vertical board carry and diagonal ski carry options. The interior includes a fleece-lined goggle pocket and a hydration bladder sleeve that can also double as a laptop sleeve.

Pros:

– Versatile design can alternate between days on the slopes and EDC use

– Good value for money

– Quick-access shovel storage

Cons:

– Size may be too compact for some users

– Basic hip belt

– Lack of many quick-access pockets for snacks and other small items

Thule Upslope 20L (~US$103)

The updated Thule Upslope 20L offers great access thanks to a zipper that coils round the entire pack, letting you get to gear in the main compartment without having to take the pack off. The pack carries skis diagonally and a snowboard vertically, with stowable straps to prevent snagging. An insulated hydration sleeve helps prevent the hose freezing, and interior compression keeps your gear secure and stable on the move. Plus with side pockets that wrap round your body, this pack will carry comfortably and stably when you’re on the move.

Pros:

– Carries both snowboards and skis, with an adjustable loop to suit different widths

– Access the main compartment without having to take the pack off

– Insulated hydration sleeve to help stop the hose freezing

– Quick-access side pocket and protective goggle pocket

– Interior compression to help keep the load stable

Cons:

– Exterior lash point for helmet carry but won’t prevent it moving around on the go

CamelBak Powderhound 12 (US$110)

The CamelBak Powderhound 12 is a solid option for days on the slope with essential gear in tow. The pack offers 10L of gear capacity and additional space for an included 2L Crux Reservoir. The pack carries a snowboard and also offers A-frame or diagonal ski carry. The Lift Access QR harness makes it easy to access gear while you’re on the chair lift, while the SnowShield material keeps snow from sticking to your pack. 

Pros:

– Insulated tube storage for the hydration bladder

– A-frame and diagonal ski carry plus snowboard carry

Cons:

– Compact volume doesn’t offer much flexibility for days when you need to carry larger loads

– Basic hip belt doesn’t provide much comfort

Dakine Heli Pro 24L (US$140)

The Heli Pro 24L backpack (also available in a women’s version) offers a choice of vertical snowboard carry and diagonal and A-frame ski carry. A snow tool pocket, fleece-lined goggle pocket, and quick-access pocket keep essentials within easy reach, while back panel access provides handy access to the main compartment. The pack also offers stowable helmet carry and an insulated hydration sleeve.

Pros:

– Choice of ski and board carry options

– Fleece-lined goggle pocket

– Helmet carry

– Quick-access snow tool pocket

Cons:

– Fairly basic hip belt with no quick-access pockets

– More weatherproof options available

USWE NORDIC 10L Hydration Pack (US$149.99)

The USWE NORDIC 10L Hydration Pack is a versatile bag that works well for cross-country skiing but also running and mountain biking. It offers a 10-liter capacity in total, including a 2.0L hydration bladder, and comes with Thermo Cell insulation technology to prevent the drink tube and bite valve from freezing even in extreme conditions. And the No Dancing Monkey 1.1 four-point suspension harness provides bounce-free carry so you can hit the slopes in comfort.

Pros:

– Tough construction

– Comfortable four-point suspension harness

– Hydration bladder compatible with Thermo Cell insulation technology

– Versatile design lends itself to multiple activities

Cons:

– Small volume won’t suit those needing to carry larger loads

Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 25L Backpack (US$179.95)

The 25L Dawn Patrol is ready to roam the backcountry on day trips with medium loads, offering useful features such as front pocket storage for snow tools, rear back panel entry for easy access to the main compartment, and insulated hydration bladder compatibility. The pack features 100% recycled main body fabrics, dual hip belt pockets, and a choice of diagonal/A-frame ski carry and vertical snowboard carry.

Pros:

– Rear panel access to main compartment

– Dual hip belt pockets for smaller items

– Front quick-access storage for snow tools

– Hydration bladder compatible

Cons:

– Waist belt buckle can be fiddly with gloves on

Osprey Kamber 32 and Kresta 30 (~US$180-$210)

Osprey’s Kamber 32 and Kresta 30, designed for men and women respectively, combine functional features with comfortable design for a day in the backcountry. Both packs offer diagonal and side ski carry as well as vertical and horizontal board carry. Designated storage for snow tools and a quick-access goggles pocket help keep your gear tidy, and the main compartment is easily accessed through the back panel. The packs are also compatible with hydration bladders and include insulated hose routing on the shoulder strap. In addition, handy hipbelt pockets keep small essentials and snacks within easy reach.

Pros:

– Multiple ski and board carry options

– Helmet carry

– Quick-access hipbelt pockets

– Men and women-specific models

– Hydration bladder compatibility

– Glove-friendly zipper pulls

Cons:

– Access to the goggles pocket is blocked when carrying a helmet

– Having to unclip buckles on the shoulder straps for back panel access may annoy some users

Arc’teryx Rush SK 32 (~US$185)

Arc’teryx’s Rush SK 32 is honed for the backcountry, with a clean silhouette to reduce potential snagging and a water-resistant build featuring a weather-resistant exterior, WaterTight zippers, and taped critical seams. The roll-top main compartment provides flexible storage for changing loads, while quick-access pockets keep smaller items close at hand.

Pros:

– Diagonal and A-frame ski carry and vertical snowboard carry

– External helmet carry

– Flexible roll-top volume

Cons:

– Lacks hydration bladder storage

Mammut Nirvana 35L Backpack (US$199.95) 

The Mammut Nirvana 35L is a great pick when you need to pack for a long day out in the backcountry. The main compartment can be accessed through the rear panel, while the front pocket provides dedicated quick access to snow tools. You’ll also find molded protective storage for goggles, as well as hydration bladder compatibility. The pack accommodates board carry as well as diagonal and A-frame ski carry, and if you want to trim the load, the hip belt is removable too.

Pros:

– Molded goggles storage

– Comfortable harness

– Compatible with a hydration bladder

– Snowboard carry and diagonal/A-frame ski carry

– Removable padded hip belt

– Quick-access snow tool storage

Cons:

– Could benefit from an additional hip belt pocket for smaller items

– Getting on the pricier end of packs

Mountain Hardwear Powabunga 32 (US$200)

The Mountain Hardwear Powabunga 32 packs a punch with its feature-rich and functional design. A pivoting hip belt and ergonomic suspension keep the weight distributed evenly and efficiently, allowing the pack to move with you while you’re on the go. Access has also been well considered, with quick-access front storage for tools and goggles and full back panel access to the main compartment. The pack supports both A-frame and diagonal ski carry and is hydration bladder compatible too.

Pros:

– Supports A-frame and diagonal ski carry

– Pivoting hip belt for efficient load carry

– Insulated hydration tube routing in the shoulder strap

– Quick access to tools and goggles

Cons:

– On the pricier end of ski packs

Osprey Kamber 42 (~US$213)

Like the features of the Osprey Kamber 32 but want more space? The Osprey Kamber 42 delivers, sharing the same ski and board carry options, a front pocket for snow tools, hydration bladder compatibility, helmet carry and a pocket for goggles. However, the pack also includes a removable lid so you have the option for additional storage if needed or a means to shed excess weight and travel lighter. In addition, dual access through the top or back panel makes getting to your gear convenient and quick. The pack comes in a S/M size (40L) and M/L (42L) to suit different loads and users.

Pros:

– Multiple ski and board carry options

– Removable lid lets you lighten the load or utilize extra storage capacity as required

– Rope can be carried under the lid

– Quick-access hipbelt pockets

– Hydration bladder compatible

Cons:

– Leaning towards the pricier end of ski/snow packs

– Helmet holder can be difficult to unhook

Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak Pack (US$219)

The updated 25L Saddle Peak is aimed at day-long ski touring adventures, with Mystery Ranch’s signature burly functionality well on display. The external reinforcement panel with 840d nylon and a tough Carbonite coating pairs with upgraded 320d NP Phantom Ripstop fabric with a wax coating, helping the pack tackle demanding use while shedding snow and water. The pack offers quick access to snow tools and goggles and is also hydration bladder compatible. The pack accommodates vertical board carry and diagonal and A-frame ski carry and also offers an adjustable torso length to suit different users.

Pros:

– Tough build for demanding use

– Adjustable harness suits different torso lengths

– Quick access to snow tools and goggles

– A-frame and diagonal ski carry and vertical board carry

– Stowable helmet carry

Cons:

– Not budget-friendly

Thule Upslope 25L (US$239.95)

The Thule Upslope 25L offers a practical pack for skiing and snowboarding, with the flexibility to accommodate a Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 if desired (note the airbag is not included). The wrap-around side pockets provide load stability as well as quick-access storage, while a front pocket provides dedicated storage for snow tools. The pack provides diagonal ski carry and vertical snowboard carry, along with an insulated sleeve for hydration bladder compatibility.

Pros:

– Space to accommodate a Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0

– Roomy quick-access side waist pockets

– Diagonal ski carry and vertical board carry options

– Quick-access snow tool storage

– Stowable helmet carry

Cons:

– Not budget-friendly

– Could benefit from a top pocket for storing smaller items

RMU Core Pack 25L (US$249)

The RMU Core Pack offers a sleek blend of snag-free styling and tough construction, featuring a weatherproof and abrasion-resistant 420D nylon exterior. The pack uses recycled nylon and a recycled polyester lining and is backed by a lifetime warranty. To get to gear, the pack features full back panel access, quick access to snow tools and goggles, as well as separate storage for wet items. And with hydration bladder compatibility, you can stay easily hydrated on the move.

Pros:

– Tough, highly weather-resistant build

– Quick access to snow tools and goggles

– A-frame and diagonal ski carry options

– Insulated shoulder strap hydration tube storage

Cons:

– Expensive

Thule Upslope 35L (US$ 279.95)

Thule delivers sleek functionality and flexibility with the Upslope 35L backpack. Back panel access lets you get to gear throughout the bag while keeping snow off the back panel. There’s also a dedicated front compartment for storing snow safety gear away from dry items. Additionally, the backpack can be used with the Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system (sold separately) for enhanced safety on the slopes.

Pros:

– Can be used with the Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system

– Large side pockets keep quick-access items at the ready

– Carries skis diagonally and snowboards vertically

– Insulated hydration sleeve prevents hose freezing

– Top pocket for goggles

– Helmet can be stored on the front or bottom of the pack

Cons:

– Expensive

USWE HAJKER Pro 24L (US$279.99)

If you’re after toughness with bounce-free comfort, look to the USWE HAJKER Pro, which features their four-point No Dancing Monkey 2.1 harness system and waist support belt for all-day comfort. The pack offers flexible volume and protection from the elements with a roll-top opening, plus a removable waterproof dry bag, so you can keep your valuable essentials safe and dry on the move. For a nifty extra feature, the waist belt can be used on its own, providing a compact carry option for minimal loads and activities such as short mountain biking rides.

Pros:

– Secure, bounce-free four-point suspension harness

– Removable dry bag and roll-top opening provide protection from the elements

– Waist belt doubles as a standalone hip pack

– Adaptable to various activities such as skiing and mountain biking

– Hydration bladder compatible

Cons:

– Expensive

Backcountry Access Float 22 Avalanche Airbag 2.0 (US$549.95)

You never know when an avalanche may strike. But the Backcountry Access Float 22 Avalanche Airbag 2.0 is great for that extra peace of mind when you’re on the slopes. The functional and safety-centered design incorporates a deployable 150-liter airbag that helps protect your head and neck in the event of an avalanche and also reduces snow burial depth. The pack is comfortable to wear and offers good freedom of movement. In addition, there’s dedicated storage for snow tools, as well as helmet carry, diagonal ski carry, and a quick-access waist belt pocket.

Pros:

– Deployable airbag to help protect you during an avalanche and decrease snow burial depth

– Designated snow tool storage

– Easy-access waist belt pocket

– Helmet carry

– Lightweight for an airbag pack

Cons:

– Float 2.0 air cylinder has to be purchased separately

– Expensive (but still one of the cheaper airbag options on the market)

– Better options available for shorter or narrow-shouldered users

Mammut Pro Protection Airbag 3.0 Backpack (US$ 799.95)

Mammut’s Pro Protection Airbag 3.0 combines a solid, water-resistant build with avalanche safety and convenient organization. The pack’s airbag deploys around the head, neck and chest area to help protect against injuries, with a safety leg loop for added security. As a bonus the airbag system can be removed to utilize the pack for other functions, and can also be used in other compatible bags. The bag has an adjustable back length for a customized fit and features board carry and diagonal ski carry. The main compartment is conveniently accessed through the back panel and a front pocket keeps snow tools in order. A pocket and gear loop on the hip belt provide further organization, and if the hipbelt isn’t required it can be removed to shed weight.

Pros:

– Airbag protection during an avalanche

– Helmet carry

– Padded pouch for goggles

– Hydration bladder compatible

– Adjustable back length

Cons:

– Expensive

– Requires separate purchase of air canister

– Limited ski carry

The post The Best Snowboarding and Ski Backpacks of 2023 appeared first on Carryology.

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During my trip, I had the opportunity to also field test the BAGJACK SKIDCAT and other amazing gear and bags that I describe later in the article.

This all started when I got selected to participate in the Space Medicine OPerationS mission (SMOPS) as a crew journalist, for a 15-day Mars mission simulation in the Moab desert, a place very similar to the surface of Mars in terms of geology.

I joined an almost all-Italian team, as this particular mission was endorsed by the Italian Space Agency and was organized in partnership with Mars Planet, the Italian chapter of the Mars Society.

Our mission had been delayed several times due to Covid-19. For more than a year, we had to meet via Zoom. I felt like I already knew the members of the team during our first face-to-face meeting, just before the start of the simulation, what we call “entering the sim” between us. The team gathered around the table during our last meal on Earth, in the small town of Hanksville, located a few kilometers from our habitat in the desert. Vittorio Netti was our mission commander, an Italian space architect who is currently a researcher in Houston. Paolo Guardabasso, our crew executive officer, is a Sicilian engineering student preparing his doctorate at ISAE-SUPAERO in France. Nadia Maarouf, our health and safety officer, was the on-board doctor who was the principal investigator for an experiment for the University of Calgary. Simone Paternostro is an engineer from the European Space Agency based in the Netherlands and Luca Rossettini is the CEO of D-Orbit, a flourishing company leader in space logistics.

As usual for these types of simulation, our diet consisted mostly of freeze-dried ingredients for 15 days, but at least at MDRS we had the opportunity to cook the ingredients, and quickly enough I started to bake fresh bread for the whole crew. Over 15 days we engaged in amazing research activities, including extravehicular activities outside the station, always wearing our simulation astronaut suits, with a five-minute wait inside the hatch to enter or exit the habitat. And this time we had access to four cool “Mars Rovers” to navigate quickly around the station.

The crew conducted soil sampling around the station the way the first Mars explorers will probably do. And we also tested various technologies, from installing a ground antenna to contact a satellite in orbit around our planet, to wearing a quite non-stop odorless smart t-shirt, the Canadian Space Agency’s Astroskin, that recorded all our physiological data in real time over 10 days and which has already been tested onboard the International Space Station.

I also had the amazing opportunity to field test a handheld 3D scanner from Leica Geosystems, the BLK2GO, to make three-dimensional virtual models of our station as well as scan particular rock formations around the station. (If you’ve seen the movie Prometheus, the technology is in a way similar to how the crew scans the facility in the movie… though this model was handheld, of course.)

These were an intense 15 days packed with hard work, amazing experiments, great Italian food, and a daily dose of laughter.

But as I said goodbye to my beloved crew, the mission did not end there for me, as I headed north the next day to the University of North Dakota to participate in an experiment held at the ILMAH (Inflatable Lunar-Mars Analog Habitat) organized by the Space Studies department of the university.

There I helped my friend and colleague, Terry Rector, a PhD candidate at the Space Studies department and a retired army officer from the Air Force Space Command to conduct research on the minds of astronaut-like candidates to make sure that future Mars explorers will be able to pilot drones and land safely once they will have reached the Red Planet.

There again for 15 days under clement and inclement weather, I helped him and documented his research with the current crew living inside the ILMAH habitat.

I then headed back south to Arizona to attend the second Analog Astronaut Conference at the historical site of Biosphere 2, where I met old and new friends and colleagues from the space sector before going back to France after a couple of days in Tucson visiting a dear friend.

Let’s have a look at the bags and break down the gear that I brought for those missions.

From left to right and top to bottom:

Nanuk 935 Pro Photo Kit

Perfect as a carry-on in the US and Canada, but apparently a bit too big for European flights. I love the Pro Photo Kit and the undeniable sturdiness of the case itself. I have no doubt that this bad boy can take a beating. The space-related stickers collection is an ongoing process…

For this mission I used PNY PRO Elite SD cards to record my photos and videos in 4K and they definitely did their job properly.

University of North Dakota / ILMAH Notebook offered to me by long-duration space missions researcher Terry Rector.

Agent Q Sunglasses

These sunglasses come with a clickable strap that made them very handy for our Mars mission simulation.

Aputure MW waterproof travel light for photography

This one went straight to my daily documentary filmmaking gear set after this mission.

BAGJACK SKIDCAT NXL Tech Line Backpack

An amazing backpack, I would say unsurprisingly coming from BAGJACK and their well deserved reputation in the Techwear scene worldwide. Comfortable, very durable, and highly versatile.

My Crew Journalist patch/name tag a.k.a: “there are many mission name tags, but this one is mine”

SEGMENT SUPPLY X-Pac Laptop Sleeve

An unexpected gem from Segment Supply if you are like me into black X-Pac. Form and function the way we love it in the techwear scene.

BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern

An LED lantern for the outdoors with so many colors and functions inside.

La French Fab mission patch

Crosscall Action-X5 rugged smartphone  

A rugged smartphone that I used mostly through our Starlink Wi-Fi connection while on Mars.

Aputure MC mini LED color light for photography and film

Another great product from Aputure for lightweight packing for filmmakers on the road.

Nagra Seven audio recorder for film and field recording

The “car radio from space” as some sound engineers call it. Definitely my favorite portable digital audio recorder for documentary filmmaking.

NANUK 910 DJI Mini 2 Fly More Case  

A great carrying case for my DJI Mini 2

Challenge coin from the cognitive decay memory recall long-duration space flight experiment

SMOPS mission patch

Our mission’s patch that carries so many great souvenirs for me.

GRAPHENE-X Layer-X baselayer

A very comfortable baselayer from GRAPHENE-X. I like many items from their line including their hardshell as well.

Audio-Technica AT8024 camera mount mic and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones

Because filmmaking is audio-visual I always enjoy the quality of Audio-Technica products

Goldwin Mac Coat

I must say that I am a big fan of this one. Black, Gore-Tex, and a Mac coat. Need I say more?

SMOPS mission crew personal t-shirt. Limited edition of three, only for me as the crew journalist.

For these missions, I came from Paris to the US for over four weeks. So I came with two carry-on bags and my usual expedition duffel bag. My main carry-on for photography and filming gear was my Nanuk 935 Pro Photo Kit. This case is perfect for flights in the US because the dimensions fit perfectly as a carry-on. Inside I kept my Nikon camera, lenses, lights, and other filming gear.

My second carry-on was a really amazing and super versatile backpack from BAGJACK, the SKIDCAT in its LARGE, NXL Tech Line version.

The backpack comes with BAGJACK’s famous attention to detail and the handmade in Berlin label that guarantees durability, high-level craftsmanship, and of course a next-level design. With a carrying capacity of 25-32 liters, it can very quickly morph from the maximum carry-on-friendly H47 x W33.5 x D16 cm dimensions to a smaller shape that will qualify it as an accessory during your flight should you need it, while still looking absolutely badass.

There are also so many features in this bag that I will probably forget some in this review. It comes with AustriAlpin Cobra® aluminum buckles, MOLLE-compatible nylon webbing, padded straps, a Cordura® outer bag, exterior pocket with water-repellent YKK® zip in dim black, extension straps to expand the volume, a padded strap handle, umbrella pocket, reinforced corners, a back pad, removable inner bag from truck tarpaulin, two detachable inner pockets with Velcro fitting and zip, a rain protection flap with draw closure, a secret pocket with zip and a top flap compartment.

During my different flights and different types of use over those four weeks, I used it in many different configurations.

Though I consider it as a perfect carry-on and travel bag, it is not at its core a photography bag. So some days I removed the inner bag made from truck tarpaulin so that a camera bag insert from f-stop would fit perfectly inside it with my filming gear.

It is certainly a pricey backpack and one of the most expensive that I own (the other one being an Acronym X Bagjack 3A-5TSR that I bought years ago), but this backpack is truly incredible. I’m sure there are still hidden pockets that I haven’t found yet and I have no doubt about its durability both in terms of fabric and design. It was a true pleasure to have it for this specific mission and I certainly look forward to bringing it as my carry-on for private travels in the near future. It is a very comfortable backpack, though of course I didn’t use it for mountaineering. Like many techwear aficionados I also enjoy the MOLLE system on this specific model, and back home I now use it with some of my favorite BAGJACK accessories and attachments for my daily commute to my producer’s office.

Many thanks to Benjamin Pothier for this article.

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