Tried the Sierras with a frameless pack - changed my whole approach

I spent years using a 65 liter pack with an internal frame. Last summer I decided to try a 35 liter frameless bag for a 4 day trip in the High Sierra. I thought I would hate it and miss the support. But after carrying only 18 pounds total, my knees felt great and I moved way faster than normal. Has anyone else switched to a lighter setup and found it actually made tough trails easier?

2 comments

2 Comments

grant.kevin1d ago

The first time I did a 3 day trip with a 28 liter pack and 15 pounds total, I kept waiting for my back to start hurting. Never happened. It kind of made me realize how much extra stuff I was carrying around in my everyday life too. Feels like once you start noticing what you actually need versus what you're used to hauling, it shows up everywhere.

amy_reed7921h ago

That thing you said about how the extra stuff shows up everywhere really hit home, @grant.kevin. I had the same realization after switching to a 30 liter pack. I used to carry a full rain suit even if the forecast was clear and a backup water filter just in case. Now I check the weather three times and pack a poncho instead. The real kicker for me was seeing how much food I wasted before. Used to pack an extra day's worth of meals out of fear. Now I bring exactly what I need and treat a calorie deficit as part of the experience.