Gearhead Thursdays: Backpack (Part 3 of 4)

Alright, so I will be the first to admit it, I have a number of backpacks…

Ok well, honestly, I have more than a number of backpacks I have a plethora. It's likely that I could do a single gearhead segment on just backpacks but we will save that for another day. [Note to self for possible bonus week gear head segment??]

This week's segment of Gearhead Thursdays features one of my favorite ways to get out and explore the outdoors: Backpacking. I find that in few ways do I feel more connected to nature than throwing all I need for a week in a bag on my back and hitting the trail.  So here you have it, this week's segment devoted to backpacks, a tent, a sleeping bag, plus a few additional luxuries for life on the trail. 

Interviewee: Jefferson

Interviewer: Mello

M: First off Jefferson, the most obvious question, why two backpacks on the gear list?  You don't really use two backpacks when you are on the trail, do you?

J: Well Mello, great question, the reason there are two backpacks on the list is one of the backpacks I use for week-long trips, the red one, and the blue backpack I use for overnight trips. I would like to think that I could use the blue one for a weekend trip but I have not tested it in that manner yet.

M: What got you into backpacking?

J: It was an Uncle of mine who lit the flame that has now ignited into a full on fire. Years ago my Uncle was eager to give the Appalachian Trail a try and was looking for a few partners in crime.  It sounded appealing to me so I went. Needless to say, we learned a few things by trial and error that week, mainly error, but ultimately I fell in love with it.

M: What item from your gear list provides the best bang for the buck?

J: I would have to say, without a doubt, my pop-can stove. This was a gift to me. This thing cannot be beat in terms of value. The true cost on it is the wire that goes around and holds your pot or pan up, the pop-can itself, the time it takes you to drink the pop, and then the time it takes to put together. This little guy has been indestructible. It's compact, lightweight, and I love the fact that it is repurposing the pop-can itself. If it breaks, which wouldn't happen easily, it is no problem to make another. Any backpacker can attest that having a cold beverage while on the trail is no problemo. A quick soda can provide a backpacker with a quick caffeine buzz to keep you going or can be an amazing reward at the end of a long day.  The pop-can stove serves a major function in providing warm meals.  Finally to emphasize: it is super lightweight, and is easy, if not fun, to repair if it means slamming a cold beverage in order to make a new one. 

M: Excellent, well thanks for your input, Jefferson.  It was a pleasure speaking with you.

J: No problem, Mello. I will see you next week!