I wanted to know what pack sizes people were carrying for through-hiking the JMT. I want to buy a 70 liter Aether from Osprey, but want to make sure it will be big enough for my trip I will be planning over the winter (it is the thruhike of the JMT). Let me know what you’re all using!
ZigTwig
I am using an Aether 85 since I am going solo on the JMT starting on July 25th. However, from my understanding, if you are going UL you can get by with a 60ish. The REI UL 60 is supposed to be realy good, although I love Osprey packs!
Colin Braudrick
I would say that is a little big. I would look in to grainte gear ozone nimbus or vapor trails. The ozone can carry a lot and it is still a light pack. 40 pounds is what it can carry. I own the ozone and like it alot. I knew I colud go with a vapor trails but for me The ozone is just fine. Aether 60 would probley be ok.
youngndum
Your pack size really depends on how bulky and heavy your gear is and how you will handle resupply. My Granite Gear Vapor Trail is plenty big enough for me, but others would find it too small.
Get all your planned gear and food bags stuffed with something and take it to a store and see how big a bag you need to fit it all and make sure the total weight with your estimated food and water weight isn’t right on the maximum weight edge of whatever pack you pick.
Miner
I would agree an 85 is way bigger than you need. I have all my gear loaded for my trip next week and I have extra room.
Colin Braudrick
ZigTwig, are you planning to snowshoe/ski the JMT in winter or to hike the JMT in summer? Most people need more space in a winter pack to accommodate bulkier gear. I agree with the previous suggestion that you take your gear to a store and see how it fits in different packs. Good luck!
Kanga
Here I am only 2 years after the fact. I am planning on a winter hike of the JMT. I have done the AT in 2002. Snowshoes (I think) will be in order.
Rambling John Again