The Guide's Pack

After an exhaustive search over many months, years actually, I happened to find Tom Bihn's web site. I knew there was something there that would work. After hemming and hawing on it for awhile I figured I had nothing to lose but to try it. I've been an avid hiker since my Scouting days as a teen so I knew what I wanted. Something simple, good fit, not too many outer straps to contend with, and well made. It was love at first hike! And that was a few years ago. This spring-summer-fall of Covid-19 we have day hiked almost every foot of the Pacific Crest Trail from the California border to the rim of Crater Lake. Each one with my trusty Guide's Pack, with attached pockets. This pack has also become a favorite travel bag and has been to the Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan, China, the St. Francis Way trail in Italy, and many other adventures. Its fit is more like how the packs I remember from my younger days were. Comfortable, roomy, adaptable to any load, and just the right size. Not over-packed, it has never been a problem for carry-on either. Works perfectly for my modular approach to packing, including packing cubes, hiking poles, water, survival gear, food, clothes, etc. Though I would not recommend it for a multi day backpack (not enough room for tent, sleeping bag, stove, fuel) for long all day hikes 8-10+ miles, and adventure travel trips it is simply incomparable. My kids will have to duke it out for who gets it when I'm gone!

I have owned this bag for several years. Loved the materials and the side pockets. My 2Nd Tom Bihn bag after I have sold my synapse 25. The small things like using different materials for the clips so they connect smoother, that’s what kept me going back to Tom Bihn. My only complaint is the padded waist belt didn’t cinch down enough for me. I’ve got a skinny 28-29 inch waist and I just couldn’t tighten the belt enough. It’s since been sold since I need more of a load bearing pack these days and want to free up weight off my back and shoulders. Should they ever redesign this pack I wouldn’t hesitate to buy it again!