The time had finally arrived. I knew it was coming. It was time to let go and say goodbye to my beloved backpack that had for years been of faithful service to me.
A sturdy British-made pack whose brand name I had long since forgotten and, the label ripped off in some foreign land. The stitching had given up the ghost on the straps and the canvas, well-worn and becoming religious. Time-out here while I wipe the tears from my eyes.
The other day I decided to check out some packs at a few Outdoor stores here in Perth, namely Paddy Pallin's, Kathmandu and Mainpeak. I knew what I was looking for, I knew what colour I wanted and, I knew what size I wanted. Armed with all this information I went from store to store and back again. My God, things had changed since I bought a backpack!. My darling old one being a mere 16 years old.
I was bombarded with technical bullshit. The usual "I use this pack", and, "It'll last you for life" and many more comments were made by the sales staff. Would I like a rigid frame, no frame, flexible frame, do you want a rain cover, extra pockets and handles, would you like extender-straps, how many level entries etc etc.
"NO. All I want is a 65 litre pack with detachable daypack, extender straps, two--level entry and it must be lockable"
"Well, I would recommend the one I use"
"Forget it, I'll buy a duffel bag instead!"
I didn't buy a duffel bag nor did I get a backpack. Instead I intend to use my old faithful along with my old carry bags. These days you just can't get what you want without the associated bullshit!.
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