I'm a boyscout and next summer I am going to Philmont scout ranch which is ten days of backpacking in new mexico and I need a go

[big24hunter]

I'm a boyscout and next summer I am going to Philmont scout ranch which is ten days of backpacking in new mexico and I need a good and cheap internal frame backpack +5000 CU but also light weight, anybody have suggestions?

[Greenhead]

I carry a Kelty that was fairly inexpensive and I have been really happy with. REI's house brand is also underpriced for the quality of the packs.

My first choice, however, would be ebay. Many people buy top quality gear, then find that the don't use it and put it up on ebay. I have seen some great deals there.

If you are not familiar with the top brands, check out backpacker.com they have gear reviews, and I would trust their suggestions.

Stay away from the military surplus stuff. It is made to do a ton of different things acceptably well, but is not the best choice when you don't need the flexibility of a modular system.

[jay]

eberlestock makes a very fine backpack and if you can find one used that fits your budget you would be wise to purchase.

[99explorer]

I would go with G.I. surplus for sake of economy. You are just so lucky to be going to Philmont. When I was a scout, I never knew anyone who could afford to go. Your choice of a backpack is not the most important decision you will have to make.

[whitetailfreek]

I would also recommend Kelty. They make great packs.

[seadog]

Congrats on your opportunity to go to Philmont. I wanted to go when I was a Scout (nearly 40 years ago) but I never got the chance. Don't forget to break in your boots and have fun.

[big24hunter]

Thanks, its great to see so many ex-scouts; and it wasn't easy to get the opportunity

[sterndixon]

I went to Philmont twice recently. My son went two years ago and he carries a Kelty Red Cloud internal frame pack. You will want something that is big so you carry your share of food and not have to stuff everything quite as tight or hang it off the back. The Red Cloud has some nice outside access. I think I paid less than $100 for it. Just be sure to get a pack that fits. A big internal frame may be too much if you're shorter than say, 5.6. He's 6 ft. and that pack will last him the next 30 years. The only issue I saw when I took boys to Philmont was guys who bought packs that were okay for a two nighter, but not sufficient for a 10-day trek. Know what trek you're doing?

[big24hunter]

No I'm not positive, but with birthday money I went out and bought an Osprey Aether 85, it was pricey but it will hold on for a long time, and the lifetime warranty is a plus if it doesn't last for a long time, thanks everybody that commented, I can't wait till next July when I leave

[bobbyirwin81]

i have a trail tech internal frame pack that is 5,300 cu. in. this pack is very reliable. its waterproof, rugged, and holds alot of gear i paid about 125 bucks at a local sporting goods store