GoLite Jam 2 Packability Question

Dan,
The Jam 2 doesn't pack down as tight as a silnylon pack would, but it can be stuffed into another pack as you're wanting to do. This would probably work better if you remove the back pad from it and pack it in the other pack so it doesn't get compressed as tight as the rest of the Jam2. Padding in the shoulder straps is minimal and cannot be removed.
Multimonth trips sound nice. I only have 3 weeks of vacation each year and have to split it up into smaller increments. I'm jealous.
Good luck!
Chris
p.s. Thanks for serving your tour of duty. Doing what you do allows me to do what I do. Too many people take it for granted.

Thanks for the info and kind words chris. I am actually nearing the end of my enlistment and this trip will be my first chance to enjoy civilian life. Is there another pack that may be a better fit then the Jam 2 for this type of trip? I thought the Ion looked great, just maybe a tad too small unless I modified it a bit.

That really depends on your style of travel. I came across the Jam2 by accident, but it has worked well for my 3-5 day trips. After taking a recent look at the Ion, I think it would work for a weekend. Extra days would be questionable, but my needs/wants may differ from yours. Check out the ULA line of packs. The owner is currently on vacation until Dec 1, but the order page shows a list of dealers that may have one of the packs in stock.
I'd like to try out a ULA Conduit (better hip padding) as an option to the Jam2.

Dan,
I would suggest you look closely at the Arcteryx "Cierzo 35". Arcteryx states "designed as a light weight summit pack the Cierzo is highly packable, compresses small and stores in its own lid. Compact…this pack is ideal as a secondary pack on alpine expeditions and back country treks…"

This sounds like what your searching for but may not have the volume you require. If your side trips are UL it could work. Also the Golite Ion may work if not to limited in volume.

Good luck and please file a trip report when you complete your adventure.

I've looked at the Cierzo 35 for just this type of use. The hip belt rides high so as not to interfere with a harness but it could be annoying. I'm 6'2" so it may fit you better. The back pad is made to be easily removable and the compression system and tool loops are also removable. The top lid is sewn on however.

I think the Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus pack would be perfect for what you are intending. It would compress down smaller than the Jam2 and is half the weight. There is about a 6 week wait according to the site.

The back pad of the Jam2 is easily removed and replaced at will. The Jam2 may be better for travel as it doesn't have the big net pockets around the outside. The Jam2 would be more durable.

Thanks for the great info. This wont be a easy choice without being able to handle them. I may just go safe with the jam durability becasue I like to fall down hills occasionaly. I really appreciate your help everyone. Now I wish i could goto bed but im too excited about backpacks and ohhhh boy a new camera lens.

Hi Daniel,

The Jam can be stuffed into a larger pack just fine without damage, I have done this before in the past, and the contents that accompanies the Jam is not gentle (Climbing gear), nonetheless, the Jam is alot tougher than it looks (having dragged up granite routes and descents. The Jam is still looking good) Hope this helps.

cheers

Thanks Nat. I ordered the Jam 2 today from REI with the nice labor day sale.