REI New Star

New Star
Reviewed by Mike2323, Feb 25, 2008

"I've had this bag for nine years and it's never caused me a problem. Its simplicity and durability are what make it timeless. For the price, it's hard to beat."

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Men's New Star
Reviewed by Tom Bu, Jan 05, 2007

"I've worn the thing out, and am looking for one that's not been used much.

Lots of room. Best part is no frills to make extra weight. Appreciate lack of a sleeping bag compartment. That way I, not REI, get to decide how to pack the bag.
Converting the lid to a fanny pack is a real plus."

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New Star
Reviewed by Matt Goldbach, Jan 05, 2002

"This pack is a good value; I bought it during REI's annual after-Christmas clearance sale in 2000 and at $140 it was a steal. The regular price is around $200 but even at that price it's still a good buy.

I've used it on several overnighters and multi-day trips and it's been comfortable each time."

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New Star
Reviewed by Rich Golaszewski, Jul 19, 1999

"This pack has performed outstandingly for an overniter and a 2 week trek. Only downside is no sleeping bag compartment."

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New Star
Reviewed by an anonymous hiker, Dec 20, 1998

"I used this pack on a number of trips. I found it to be a good value and is excellent for starters looking to go for about a week long trip. The major flaw is the lack of a sleeping bag compartment or any external pockets. This is a definate "no frills" pack and after a while the "no frills" approach begins to wear on you in terms of suspension, padding, and the problem that plagues every New Star owner I have ever spoken with, no pockets or sleeping bag compartment!

Overall it just leaves you wanting more, but gets the job done."

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New Star
Reviewed by Matt, Apr 08, 1998

"This is a great backpack! It is large enough for a 1 week backpack trip but can be compacted down for overnight trips. It is very comfortable. Top compartment turns into a fanny pack. I used it on a 1 week bakcpack expedition in Philmont, N. M."

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New Star
Reviewed by David Schultz, Nov 21, 1997

"Great value for the price. Very high quality materials and workmanship, but low frills. Very comfortable for a wide range of heights. The biggest flaw is the lack of a lower divider for your sleeping bag and no external pockets except for the rain cover/fanny bag. It does however, have lots of external lashing points so it's easy to add extra pockets if you need them."

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New Star
Reviewed by crotty 6@..., May 06, 1997

"The pack is basically a smaller version of the Great Star. The backpack is a good buy for the money. When it comes to comfort it's not the best but it still works. It has a front "U" shaped zipper to get to all your gear. The pack has one flaw though, there is no sleeping bag compartment."

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New Star
Reviewed by jh3@..., Apr 12, 1996

"The pack is a good deal for the money. I think that it's gone up in price recently, and the design has changed, but overall I think it's the same.

This pack has too many straps and lashing points, which can become a little annoying. The hip belt is a little flimsy (easily replaced)."

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