One feature that really stands out to me is its water-resistant coating. I’ve had the opportunity to put it to the test in some tough weather conditions, and it’s held up admirably. In fact, I recall a particularly memorable trip to Costa Rica where it rained relentlessly, and my belongings remained bone dry thanks to this backpack. The Ozark Trail backpack has a total of 22 liters of capacity with several pockets for your essentials. It has an open top side pocket, a vertical hidden pocket and a large zippered main compartment.
The Ozark Trail Association marks and improves the trail and ensures campsites are well maintained. It’s a working document that I update from time to time. I must interject a note about coffee here as I consider it essential!
It only weighed in at 11.6 ounces on my scales and for 28 liters that tops some of the big boy manufacturers. Exploring these aspects will help you identify the backpack that best suits your needs. Overall, this is a high-quality backpack that won’t disappoint.
It is also designed to hold a 15″ laptop in the padded pocket. Determining when and where water will be available is part of route planning. Monitoring rain in the area you’re going to hike and contacting locals can help you determine if smaller creeks might act as water sources. Last fall ozark trail canopy when hiking dry sections of the Ouachita Trail, we planted water caches for insurance, but this involved driving to pick up empty jugs after the trip. We like that this pack has a lot of pockets including a zipper that allows you to access the middle of the pack without opening the top.
They also feature different patterns and designs, adding a unique touch to your pack. Some backpacks even come with detachable parts that you can switch out for a personalized look. The material of a backpack plays a significant role in determining its ability to withstand wear and tear. Generally, backpacks are made from materials like polyester or nylon. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, but nylon is often preferred for its durability and resistance to water. If you frequently hike or camp in wet conditions, consider opting for a water-resistant backpack.
I never carry bear spray and only used a bear canister once in the High Sierras of California where it was required. I use a bag for food and tie it in a tree, but mainly to keep the little critters out. On our first 88-mile section of the Ozark Trail, the third toe on my left foot was a problem that reared its ugly head beginning about day four of eight.
This daypack ended up being the cheapest after a quick perusal. For the second overnight hike in which I used the pack, I left the hammock at home and stuffed an REI Stratus insulated pad and lightweight bivy inside. Finding the perfect Ozark Trail backpack can be a daunting task with so many options to choose from. To guide you in making a well-informed decision, let’s delve into the crucial features and considerations that define this type of backpack.
I’ve also used a poncho which kept my upper body dry, but I still get clammy. Many never think about the actual weight of the pack, but some are close to 5-pounds. Having a fancy suspension system doesn’t reduce the weight your feet and knees are feeling so go as light as possible with the pack. For me, planning campsites involves guesswork and looking at topographical maps. I cut post-it notes into strips and stick them to the map where I think we might camp.