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Janelle Holden's avatar

Thank you Jen! This was so useful! My husband has an Osprey kestrel that he used for our trip to Shetland in lieu of a wheelie bag. It was also perfect for hiking. I need a new bag and like you, prefer to carry vs. wheel and go light. But I had no idea there were those side pack options! How cool! My favorite trip I took a school size leather backpack to Belize for 10 days and hung sandals on the outside. So easy!

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Jen B's avatar

My 24 y.o. still has her L.L. Bean backpack from kindergarten (purple and covered with cheery butterflies) and it's her easy peasy go-to when she needs a carry-on bag for 7-10 days.

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Janelle Holden's avatar

I gave my niece a set of L.L. Bean powder blue monogram luggage for her high school graduation and she’s been all over the world with it. Their stuff holds up!

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Deb Kelner, she/her's avatar

If/When I ever have the opportunity to travel again I think you've converted me.

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Kathy Woolever's avatar

I just listened to your interview with Janelle and immediately came over to check out your minimalist packing ideas. 30L seems like a great size. I own a Mother Lode travel backpack and it's just a bit too big for me. Last summer I did train travel (exclusively) in Germany with the CTS Convertible backpack and loved it! Small enough to make me pack smart & under 10LB. Has the suitcase opening (like you mention being a big plus). Only thing it's missing is a hip belt, but I'm not doing true backpacking or through hiking. Would love a post about your favorite Merino wool products! They are investment pieces and some are very thin/prone to holes. I have an Icebreaker tee that's lasted years but not finding good quality replacements. I'll put in a plug for Darn Tough merino socks (lifetime warranty)!

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Jen B's avatar

Hi. My Mother Lode is the Jr, which is around 40L. I agree, it is a bit large if I'm trying to go really minimal. My Osprey Porter is 30L and because the construction is more rigid, it too sometimes feels too bulky. I have an Eagle Creek that's a traditional backpack design and is only 20L, but I'd really like something that size that opens like a suitcase. I'll keep looking...

Finding good quality merino can be tricky, I agree. I am planning to write a post about merino wool clothes and will push to get that done sooner rather than later.

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Jen B's avatar

Also, if you look at my Where In the World tab, you'll see a link to posts that mention minimalist packing.

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Kathy Woolever's avatar

I'll check that out - thank you!

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Jen B's avatar

Also, I just realized that you were commenting on my post about luggage and not a different post, so I apologize for the redundant info in my comment.

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