My first time using the Gregory Jane 63 backpack

It took me days and lots of research hours to decide to get this backpack from all the possible options. I am always over-analyzing potential future purchases to a fault. If you are looking into buying this bag, I want to help you make an easy decision by sharing my thoughts and experiences in this blog article.

Who is the Gregory Jane 63 backpack for?

Any short or tall individual with some curves who want to go backpacking or travel the world with a bag that helps them find items easier resulting in less chaos!

Why did I buy a backpack in the first place?

I was planning a camping trip to Slovenia and Italy in January. I didn’t own a backpack big enough to bring all my items for the two-week vacation.

The bag has six individual pockets - seven if you count in the bottom opening with a separator that allows you to keep your sleeping bag separated from your other items. The two hip pockets are standard in most backpacks and are very convenient, as you can save your phone, money, lip balm, tissues, and camera easily accessible without taking your backpack off. The backpack has a nice flappy lid with an exterior pocket and an interior pocket. I leave my rain cover, my emergency kit in here, as well as my favorite couple game Jaipur. The top pocket is for my book, snacks, and other items that I would occasionally need during the hike. Now, on to the front mesh pocket! This mesh pocket is my absolute fave. I keep my hat, sunscreen, and fan in here. It is so convenient, as it is tight enough to keep your items from falling out or making noises, but it is flexible enough to store quite many things in it. Now to the central area of the bag - it has tree openings! The top, the front side, and the bottom! The big opening was one of the key features for me, as this keeps you from going through your bag from one entrance only, which will not mess up your lovely, organized backpack. If you are not using a water reservoir, you will even have a little compartment for flat items such as maps or journals.

My bag was quite heavy as I over-packed as usual, but when you wear your backpack correctly and have a nice mesh that helps with ventilation and comfort, you won’t feel the burden of a heavy bag. The bag has nice extras that are worth mentioning here. First of all, the sunglass holder on the left arm strap. This comes quite handy when you don’t want to pack your sunglasses away. It is also annoying when you hang it onto your shirt. It is just not stable enough. Another great feature is the multiple loops - straps can be used to attach your shoes, sandals, or whatever you feel hanging outside your bag. I would also like to mention that my boyfriend, who is tall and has a different body shape, was carrying my backpack 70% of the time on our hike in Triglav National Park. He had no problems carrying it, which shows me that it is a super versatile backpack.

Backpack tips for first-time hikers:

-Choose a bigger bag. You will regret not having enough space; you can always pull the straps to make your bag tighter.

-Go to a store to check out the bags and determine what size you need.

-Watch this video that explains “How to wear a backpack correctly.”

-Place the hip belt tight above your hip for the weight to be distributed well.

-To keep your clothes neat, buy mini mesh bags from IKEA. You can pack an entire outfit in one and get an even better overview of your bag.

-Always bring some plastic bags, so you don’t make your bag dirty.