User Review: Kelty Trekker 3950

Kelty Trekker 3950
Above: The current Trekker 3950, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 8, 2006 by Jon

Rating:
Design: top loading packbag
Size: 3950
Number of Pockets: 5 external
Max. Load Carried: 35lbs
Height of Owner: 5'10''
Price Paid: $100

I've been backpacking since I was still in my mother's womb. I started using my own pack when I was around 6 years old, and have since been through a youth bag and a full size Coleman hand-me-down from my father. After two years in college, I decided it was about time for me to buy all of my own gear.

I knew from the start that I wanted an external frame pack. It's all I know, and it has always worked well for me. I needed something reliable that could be sufficient for a overnight trip to a weeklong expedition. Looking through the Campmor catalog, I was quickly drawn to the Kelty Trekker. I read some reviews on the internet and decided (despite some less than fabulous reviews) to go ahead with it. I COULDNT BE HAPPIER WITH MY DECISION.

This pack, for the money, is comfortable, reliable, and more than adequate for a traditional outdoorsman. I have taken this pack out on dozens of weekend expeditions, confident it could serve its purpose for a weeklong trip. I will be doing a 5-day hike on the AT in a few weeks for spring break, and I plan on taking this pack with me to the Olympics this summer. I have no complaints.

This is a simple pack perfectly suited for the simplicity of the wilderness. All the bells and whistles on much of the gear today takes away from the experience. The Trekker 3950 is a perfect pack for beginners and experienced mountain men alike. Good trekking!