Mountain Hardwear Foray

I bought this pack after reading several reviews that it was a good size for multi-day trips.  Anyone who can pack this bag for a multi-day trip is either a supreme minimalist who lives on powerbars and olive oil shots or has tons of money to spend on the absolute smallest, lightest, and newest gear available.   

I have given it several chances to prove its worth, in each situation it failed.  

Attempt #1: I originally tried to pack it for a two night Grand Canyon hike along the main corridor trails. 

Outcome #1: FAILED.  As soon as you put in a three liter hydration bladder there is no room left for anything else.  I had to re-pack into my older EMS Long Trail, which fit everything fine. 

Attempt #2: Packed it for an attempt at a 10,000'+ peak in the California Sierras. 

Outcome #2: FAILED.  Pack was too small for a bearbox (Garcia) and hydration sleeve.  I had to re-pack into my EMS Long Trail. 

Attemp #3: Two day trip into the Yosemite backcountry.  Outcome #3:  MARGINALLY SUCCESSFUL.  The pack was stuffed to the gills so tightly inside like a jigsaw puzzle that if you misplaced any piece of equipment nothing else would fit.

I am glad I bought this on a 35% off coupon from Sierra Trading Post and didn't waste much money on it. I don't know how anyone can use this for more than an overnight pack.  I use compressor packs, repackage all my food, and wear the same stinky clothes for days on end. 

This bag is nothing more than a glorified daypack.

The first thing I did when I got home was to load the Foray. After 3 different ways I found that loading the bag center heavy seemed most comfort for me. Love this bag, wish it had entry to inside other than just through the top.