Category: Travel Gear

Retiring My Trusty Old Pack -- And Upgrading to a Max Backpack

7/20/2021

The Max Backpack from Able Carry is big, sturdy and stylish. This 30-liter workhorse has been my savior this summer as I travel overseas.

By John Roberts
I'm the type of guy who will use an item until it essentially turns to dust or shreds.
My wife will readily attest to this.
I'm frugal and really don't like waste, so that explains a lot of it. Also, when I find something that works, that I'm completely comfortable with, I really don't like to change.
So, I've come here to talk to you about my backpack.
I have used the same style of backpack to travel around the globe for the better part of the past four years. It was fantastic. Spacious, pretty durable, plenty of pockets.
It was everything that I thought I wanted. Plus, I had found my rhythm with it; I knew just where everything was, how each pocket, zip and compartment played a role in my organization and travel systems as I traveled -- through airports and on boats and trains.
But, in recent months, it had begun to show its wear, with a few stitches releasing on the main shoulder straps. My reinforcement efforts included adding an attractive crosshatching of duct tape.
It seemed that it was time to look for a new backpack companion, but I wasn't going to make the commitment until just the right rig came along. Fortunately, I found the perfect fit when Able Carry asked me to try out its new Max Backpack.

Repacking my gear from the old reliable into my shiny new pack from Able Carry.

At first glance, I knew that this 30-liter backpack would be the right size to get the job done. It's plenty big enough. But would it be durable enough or offer the compartment space that I was looking for?
Well, I have been using the Able Carry Max Backpack for more than a month (running back and forth to Greece on various trips this summer) at the time of this review, and it has far exceeded my expectations. The process of my conversion to a new backpack began with me emptying out my old pack and working out just where I would organize my electronics, toiletries, chargers, cameras -- and all the other necessary sundries -- into this new space in the Max Backpack.
It has a large main compartment that easily fit my Sony RX10 camera and GoPro cameras as well as all the accessory bags. I also can fit my toiletries (liquids) bag in there as well as my snacks bag. Plus, I still have extra space for my stainless steel water bottle and sunglasses case.
The compartment and the variety of zippered pockets easily hold my computer, chargers, cords, backup power blocks and all the extras. The backpack has a stiff backing and "A frame" suspension to distribute the weight and relieve your shoulders.
I also like the numerous hooks and loops available on the exterior of the bag. These are great for hanging bottles or other items with caribiners or rope pieces. The bag also has lockable zippers and a chest strap that easily snaps closed with a magnetic clasp.

First impressions: "This is going to work!"

Able Carry uses durable materials, such as an XPAC shell for lightweight strength, a Cordura nylon base and ripstop lining. I really load up the backpack, and it has been holding strong so far, especially the stitching on the shoulder straps, which have given way on my prior backpacks.
Here are the other specs and details, as highlighted by Able Carry:
Everything within reach: Dedicated work compartment fits up to 17-inch devices; Spacious main compartment with organizer pockets and external pockets on all sides for flexibility.
First-class comfort: Max provides ease in motion with foam shoulder support, and ventilated pads to keep your back cool. Magnetic chest straps snap easily in place for enhanced stability in motion.
Built to travel: Luggage pass through, hanger hook and lockable zippers.
Made to last: Engineered to handle the rigors of travel with durable, water-resistant fabric, quality hardware and backed up with lifetime warranty.

My new Max Backpack is making my travels as smooth as ever. Now, let's see how long I can make this great piece of equipment last.

Happy travels, all!
Thanks for reading,
JR

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These Hiking Pants Are Made From Coffee Grounds

4/28/2021

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By John Roberts
Yes, my new hiking pants are made using recycled coffee grounds (among other materials).
In fact, these Coalatree Trailhead Pants are just one of many eco-minded products that this company offers. I was happy to give them a try at the request of Coalatree, which also sells hammocks, hats, blankets, socks, backpacks and masks.
I'm always on the lookout for active apparel that is comfortable and flexible. These pants check those boxes, for sure. Are they stylish, too?
What do you think?
Perhaps I chose a size that is a bit too tight for me -- but skinny jeans are still in, right? My wife says they look nice.
The point is, they are plenty stretchable and feel great when I'm out on the trails.
Coalatree created a line of apparel in 2010, and it has a strong mission for conservation and sustainability. The company uses excess fabric to create blankets for the homeless in its home base in Salt Lake City.

I had a fabulous time hiking in North Carolina with my wife, Colleen, and Ryan and Kelly from Watch Us Wander. (Check out their awesome YouTube channel, by the way!)

The two-ply green stretchy hiking pants have a nice feel on the skin and kept me plenty warm during a chilly spring time hike in the mountains near Boone, North Carolina.
We hiked in Pisgah National Forest on the Hawksbill Mountain Trail on a pleasant spring day in mid-April. The moderate 2.2-mile out-and-back delivered a nice workout, stunning views over the valleys and a good test for the functionality of my Coalatree Trailhead Pants.
The pants are waterproof and feature four pockets. At the front, the two deep pockets (they reach all the way down to the top of your thighs) can easily hold your smartphone or other items you might need to quickly access while enjoying an outdoors adventure. There are two back pockets, the right-side pocket has a Velcro flap and the left-side pocket does not.
The pantlegs offer drawstrings at ankle level, so you can adjust the leg length and tighten to fit around boots or above your calf (as capris).
The waistband also can be tightened with a drawstring. Overall, I found the pants to be extremely comfortable, and they can be rolled or folded tightly so that they won't take up much space in your suitcase or backpack. The pants can be collapsed and stuffed into the right pocket, which allows them to even be used as a small travel pillow. Cool!

I'm so glad to add these trail pants to my wardrobe. They are the perfect fit to my active travel lifestyle.

Thanks for reading, and always travel happy!
Cheers,
JR

Coalatree Trailhead Pants: The Specs
Waterproof
Stain-resistant
Breathable
Four-way stretch
Anti-microbial (inhibits growth of bacteria)
Tear-resistant
Made from recycled materials: nylon, spandex and coffee grounds
Weight, about 11 ounces
Machine wash inside out on cold; hang to dry

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3 Awesome Essentials for the Active Traveler in 2021 and Beyond

2/17/2021

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We've stumbled upon a few items that you'll find useful -- if not essential -- as you head out on your adventures.

By John Roberts
I'm eagerly looking toward spring and the glorious possibility that more travel is coming as we emerge from the pandemic. Vaccines are being distributed, and the effectiveness against the virus should serve as hope that travel will begin to somewhat normalize.
That doesn't mean things will immediately go back to the way they were. Precautions and health protocols will still be in place for many parts of society.
With that in mind, we are bringing you a few travel products that could well become be essential parts of your gear for the immediate future and for years to come These items just make sense to us.
Here are three convenient and easy-to-pack. Must-have travel accessories for 2021 and beyond.

HALOmask
Mask wearing has become a necessary part of our lives during the coronavirus pandemic. So, hundreds of companies have emerged trying to refine and perfect masks that deliver the proper mix of hygiene and comfort while offering protection against transmission of COVID-19.
As someone who is extra active, with daily workouts and weekend hikes and runs, I have been frustrated in trying to find a mask that gives me the protection and comfort I desire when I am around others in the gym or on the trails.
HALOmask is the best option I have discovered so far. The company touts its masks as the most comfortable, stylish and technologically advanced masks that you'll find. (Of course, it does.)
I gave the mask a try, and here is what I found.
The cloth mask features soft ear straps, which make the mask tolerable for hours, with no tugging and discomfort that I get from the standard masks with elastic straps. This means, I can wear the HALOmask for hours (as is required when flying) without a great hassle.
The softness, comfort and breathability of this mask -- which also comes with a nanofilter that you replace every two weeks or so (depending on the amount of use and your daily contact with the public) to maximize the capture of particles -- makes it ideal for use while working out or enjoying other active pursuits like biking, hiking or sports competitions.
HALOmask says its mask with the nanofilter captures more than 99 percent of airborne matter down to a size of 0.1 microns. The mask would be considered safer than simple cloth masks or standard "neck gaiters" because the HALOmask, with its paper-thin nanofilters feature a proprietary "nano-matrix" that blocks virtually all smoke, dust, pollution, pollen, particulates and pathogens.

We're extremely happy with the fit and comfort of our HALOmasks. Plus, they come in a variety of colors.

Overall, I loved the comfort of the mask. It's made of a soft cloth and the fit makes it easy to breath, even while undertaking strenuous activities. This was my main hang-up with other masks I have tried. I would be working out, trying a heavy lift or sprinting session at the gym, and it would be difficult to breathe. With the HALOmask, these tasks have become much more manageable. You can adjust the tightness of the fit around the nose by pinching the small wire insert at the top. I'll keep mine as tight as possible when traveling on a plane or elsewhere in public. I keep it a little looser for air flow and breathability at the gym during strenuous workouts.
I'm extremely pleased to have discovered this mask. For as long as we're going to be wearing masks in society, it's a relief to find something so effective that also offers comfort and convenience.

NakeFit Protective Soles
This could become your go-to footwear if you prefer to be barefoot. Nakefit stick-on soles are easy to apply single-use foot protection that give you comfort and protection for all kinds of travel environments.
The soles are great for wearing on vacations at resorts -- when you'll be around a pool or in public spas and community showers. They are waterproof, so you keep them on while swimming or wandering the beach. The slim cushion effect is nice and offers protection from hard surfaces and those that get very hot in the summer sun, like sand and pavement.
Nakefit soles are made with a blend of cotton, Spandex and silicone. They are applied with an easy-on and easy-off adhesive, and the soles create a great hygienic, non-slip barrier ideal for those of us who prefer a minimalist feel on our feet.

Good to Know: You get one chance to place them on your feet, so make sure you are lining up your toes and heel for perfect coverage before you commit to sticking them on. Also, if you have excessivley sweaty feet, the company warns that the soles might not adhere as well.
We think they fit into your travel lifestyle well in the following scenarios: at the airport for when you have to remove your shoes, at a waterpark, resort vacations, beach time and swimming, especially when you have to wade in to the sea from a rocky beach.
Nakefit protective soles come in convenient three-packs for as low as $17.99 on sale (reduced from $19.99 as of this post).

TP Kits
Let's talk about the urge.
We have a lot of urges as humans -- to travel, explore and connect with nature.
Sometimes, our urge is just an urge, though.
When you gotta go, you gotta go!
You know what I mean. It usually happens when you're out in nature satisfying your urge for adventure.
It sure can be a miserable experience when you have to poop while wandering in the woods and realize you aren't really properly prepared.
Who hasn't been caught in one of these desperate situations? You definitely understand the need for our discussion here.
TP Kits will become a staple in your backpack and leave you feeling confident every time you head out into the wilderness.
If you often get the urge to go -- after you leave the comfort of your home and just as you start your outdoor adventures, these are just what you need. These kits take up no space in your backpack. You'll barely know they are there, but will be the most valuable item when you come to need it.
Each individual package comes with five double-ply tissues, two cotton-blend sanitizing wet wipes and a fully biodegradable resealable pouch.

The kits come in especially handy when you've got to take a quick potty break. Excuse me while I duck behind the saguaro in Phoenix.

TP Kits take a little bit of the hassle out of your planning for many types of outings. We used to create our own "bathroom kits" when we went out for a hike. Essentially, I would throw a few Kleenex into a zippered sandwich bag. These work fine -- when I remember to include them in my pack. We also relied on any sanitizing wipes we happened to toss in, as well.
With TP Kits, I have placed several in my backpack, so I am always set. An extra box sits in the car, so we never run out.
We used them for the first time on our hiking week in Arizona, and they gave us peace of mind. I always pack out what I bring in to any park, but with TP Kits we have the comfort to know that if we happened to inadvertently drop a pouch or any part of the kit along the trail, the biodegradable product wouldn't damage the environment.
TP Kits can be bought as "singles" and as a 10-pack box.

Have you found any new products that are essentials for your adventurous lifestyle? What do you think about these items?
Let us know in the comments below, and thanks for reading,
JR

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Retiring My Trusty Old Pack -- And Upgrading to a Max Backpack

These Hiking Pants Are Made From Coffee Grounds

3 Awesome Essentials for the Active Traveler in 2021 and Beyond

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