[Paula Kim]

Hi ladies! Anyone have recommendations for a 75-100L pack for a 5-6 day mountaineering trip? Bag needs to hold ice picks, crampons, rope, food, cloths, helmet, and the team is splitting things like tents etc. Looking for something streamlined and light, since pack weight is an important issue. I’m 5’3″, 135. There is so much out there and a lot of stores don’t carry all the options in-store, so some of the options I’m just going off descriptions on websites. Would love to hear what bag you women like (or don’t like). Thanks in advance!

Topic

[Jules Winchester]

Jules Winchester on January 25, 2023 at 1:10 pm #75068

I just bought the Hyperlight Headwall. We’re about the same size and I’m intending to use it for the same purpose. I’ll let you know how it goes!

[Paula Kim]

Paula Kim on January 26, 2023 at 4:51 pm #75119

Okay, thanks! Look forward to hearing about it!

[Jennifer Bealer]

Jennifer Bealer on January 30, 2023 at 8:51 am #75206

I have the mountain hardwear AMG bag 105l. Im 5’3″ 155ish and have a hard time getting the hip belt tight enough to keep the weight off my shoulders. Helps more with added layers. I do have a small waist, all the weight is in my legs and ass ? i did cary 74lbs in it but it cut my hip bones so bad, better with weight under 60lbs.

[Jennifer Bealer]

Jennifer Bealer on January 30, 2023 at 8:54 am #75207

Here is it on me

[Paula Kim]

Paula Kim on February 1, 2023 at 3:04 pm #75277

Hi Jennifer! If you meant to post a picture, it doesn’t seem to have come through so you may want to try again!

[MaxSummers]

MaxSummers on August 17, 2023 at 3:37 pm #80403

For a 5-6 day mountaineering trip, you’re absolutely right – a streamlined and light backpack is crucial, especially considering pack weight.

[Alyssa Young]

Alyssa Young on August 18, 2023 at 10:30 am #80414

Hey there! I know a lot of women that like the fit and function of Osprey and Black Diamond packs. They’re a heavier than something like the Hyperlight, but they have more structure and many people find that they’re more comfortable for long trips (especially if you’re not used to carrying a heavy pack). Unless you’re doing a Denali Prep Course type trip I’d recommend tying to keep pack size down to 55-75 L.

A common issue for smaller women is finding a hip belt that can get snug enough to sit on your hip bones, but if you go to a good gear shop they should be able to help with fit.

Also worth considering what you’ll do after your course. What are a few of your top climbs and objectives? That will help guide your pack search.

[MaxSummers]

MaxSummers on August 18, 2023 at 4:32 pm #80426

You might want to explore options at https://vonbaer.com/blogs/blog/what-is-leather-tanning. Though they specialize in leather goods, they could have insightful information about choosing the right backpack for your needs.
When it comes to packing in essentials like ice picks, crampons, and clothing, a well-designed backpack is a game-changer. Since you’re considering various options based on website descriptions, don’t hesitate to read reviews from fellow mountaineers to get real-world insights.