Rob in VA:

This is a pretty old thread, so you may not receive many other replies. I'm somewhat of a heretic, since I do not believe in Duluth Packs. Many others do. There is some good advice in this thread for using any pack.

I try to travel lightly and usually use a regular frame backpacking pack. They are more comfortable on the portages and if loaded frame-down in the canoe, keep the inevitable splashed-in water away from the pack contents.

I used a full Platinum or Gold "complete outfitting" package once and ended up with some Duluth Packs loaded with more stuff than I needed. They can hold a lot of stuff and are durable, but in my opinion. are overkill for someone on a well planned trip. If you are young and strong and don't mind feeling like a pack animal, it doesn't matter.

If you're not looking to carry in more than you need, think about it. Consider the volume and weight of the things you need to bring and minimize them. Then decide on the vessels you will need to carry them.

Good luck,

...Tom

Posted by Tom Swulius on March 08, 2000 at 01:38