Gregory Z-22 Backpack : The Biggest Little Pack on the Trail

My intent was to use my Gregory Z-22 as a daypack but I thought it would be fun to try it out for an overnighter.

It took some careful consideration, but I whittled down my overnight backpacking gear to the essentials and got it all to fit in or on my new 22-liter pack. The only item on the outside of the pack was my insulation pad, which strapped on easily with the compression straps. I was ready to hit the trail with my smallest overnight pack ever.

The trail had several downed trees to deal with and an ad hoc log bridge across a river. The small pack made squeezing, crawling, shimmying, and climbing so much easier than if I'd been wearing a larger pack.  It also made the hike that much more enjoyable to be carrying less weight. The ventilated panel against my back kept the sweating down, and I loved having my camera secure and instantly accessible in the zippered waistbelt pocket.  

I had taken the precaution (as I always do) to line the pack with a plastic bag.   It gave me piece of mind when light rain started to fall about 45 minutes from camp.   When I un-zipped the pack to get out my shelter, the outside of my liner bag was dry.   No water permeated the pack!

I probably won't make a habit of overnighting with this pack because I'd like a bit more gear with me but it was fun to do it once. The Z-22 has been an excellent pack -- for my many day hikes and a special night out.

Bottom Line : Whatever the adventure, Gregory makes a pack for it; whether it be a super small hydration pack for a day trip or an expedition-sized behemoth for a long trek.--A.S. (June 09)

Price $109

Manufacturer's Site: www.gregorypacks.com

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