Like (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links) but with a login name like that I would think you would have access to better sources than QJ.   

Apostle Paul,

You didn't ask this question, but you said you were going to use your backpacking backpack.  There is a previous thread which discusses the merits of using a backpacking pack which has an external frame.  Very people who go to the Quetico or BWCA on  a regualr basis use a backpack which has a frame.  The major drawback of an external frame is that the pack doesn't fit well in the canoe.  This is a not a trip breaker, but something you may want to consider.

Westwood

[quote author=ApostlePaul link=1247407354/0#0 date=1247407354]I was wondering if there is a "best" way to tie the bag when using it as a liner on a canoe trip. [quote]
I've done the same basic method solotripper suggests.

I've used both a heavy duty twist tie (like some that a commercial laundry would use to tie together bundles of hangers) or extra-long/tick pipe cleaners to tie up the bag.  The twist-tie works better and doesn't tend break as frequently, but for a shorter duration trip the pipe cleaners would be fine.

You might want to consider something a bit larger than a compactor bag.  I've used a heavy-mil lawn bag for this.  It gives you extra length to twist the top and fold over before you tie-down.

Just keep in mind that your backpack will soak up water (and extra weight) and may very well remain wet for the duration of your trip (via both rain and sitting in the canoe bilge).

dd

Thanks for the helpful advice. I'm sure this will be a great experience, with some learning curves. Wish I could justify the funds to just buy the correct type of carrier. But, I think I'll make it with what I have.

It is an internal frame pack and I do have some waterproof bags for the essentials--like sleeping bag and clothes. Our food will be supplied by the outfitter in some type of container/carrier.

who'd a thought that there would be a dozen ways to do something so simple.

Same as Monjon, I just twist the top several times, double it and rubber band it.

Typically, I use at least 2 trash bags for liners, or a trash bag and  lightweight drybag or packliners.  I'd never trust a single layer, and my down sleeping bag is in an additional two layers.   I'd think about bringing several extra trash bags, just in case the outfitters packing for your food is using only a single liner.

Nothing at all wrong with using a backpack - I've used a large internal
frame backpack on many trips.  Your typical nylon backpack is pretty quick drying - I would normally lay the pack down so that the shoulder straps and hip-belt are "up" - that way, weven if there is some water in the bottom of your boat, the straps stay dry unless its raining.

Mad_Mat wrote on Jul 13^th, 2009 at 12:09pm:

   I guess it shows there's more than one way to skin a cat  

Quote:


 I do just the opposite  I lay the packs, strap/waist belt down figuring that they'll stay above the bilge water and that will lessen the chance for water to penetrate? The waist belt/shoulder straps are close-cell foam, so they don't really absorb any water. I can see how wet straps might bother some, so I guess once again a simple thing has different approaches.
AS always, the only thing that really matters is what works for you and what you feel comfortable with. I read ideas here all the time and try them out when practical. Some are an improvement, others not.
 It's great too have a resource, so you can learn from other's success' and mistakes!

I always have a box of 45 gallon contractor trash bags in my garage.  When it comes to canoe trips, I use one of those bags inside my pack.  They're heavy duty and never have torn.

As for the top, I simply twist the top as if I were going to put a rubber band or zip tie around it, curl it over and close the pack.  Pressure keeps it shut.  Everything stays nice and dry.

The rubber band, or even a Bungee Dealee Bob, would be better, though.

 AP,
 You'll be just fine! As backpackers you have the physical skills, the paddling part will come with practice. Navigation is a little different, so make sure each canoe has a set of maps, and the night before or morning of, let EVERYONE see the route your taking, not just the guy's doing the navigating. 4 sets of eyes are better than 2. IF you unsure of your navigating with islands/ points of land, shoot a compass heading for each portage or campsite destination. If you get "confused" go with the compass heading. Make sure you "know" where you are while paddling. In new water, I find marking on the plastic cover of map case with a grease pencil when I hit a prominent landmark, helps keep me orientated.
Sometimes, especially when your excited and caught up in the scenery/fishing, you can get turned around if your not careful?
 Of course if you have/use a GPS, then it's not such a big deal.
Use the same common sense you would backpacking, and you'll have a fantastic trip and hopefully a good trip report with pics

Another alternative I use is that I put my clean clothes in 2 gallon zip lock (store brand)  freezer style bags.  My spouse found a bunch of them as good as the name brand but at 60% of the cost.  I squeeze the air out of the clothes, for this takes up a lot less space.  Then, the foregoing is packed in a heavy mill plastic trash bag.  The trash compactor bags are a good idea, likely thicker, but I always thought they were limited size.

While at Cabela's, I noticed a huge ziplock bag, 3 feet long or so, and wondered if this would be a good purchase.  I may get one to try it out on my Sept. trip.

Another alternative which I use along with the double bag liner, are those space saver bags you see advertised on info-mercials. Most outdoor places carry them.
There the kind you seal the end and roll up, where a one way valve purges the air out. Waterproof, bug proof, and really compresses your load. I put one outfit, shirt/pants/socks in a medium bag, and use other medium bags for extra socks/t-shirts and fleece outerwear.
I stack them in a mesh duffel type bag which I take in tent at night.
I use them for dirty laundry as well.
Much better than zip-lock bags and easier to keep track of your items, and get all the air out of.
Coleman makes them, I'm sure there are other brands on the market.
Last set I got was at Bass Pro Shop.
Between liner bags and these, your stuff will stay dry and easy to find!

Quote:


Wow.  How does what someone in another canoe uses for a pack affect you?

Depending on the type of canoe, the gear brought, and the type of external frame, an external frame pack can be loaded/unloaded into a canoe as easily as a non-frame pack (maybe even easier in rare cases because the frame can provide more options for "handles" by which to pick it up or attach it).  So even if your canoe partner has an external frame pack for your canoe, I cannot understand the blanket prohibition.

I yeild! Gracefully, I hope.

Tim