SMD Comet Interior Volume

A small bump to see if anyone can answer my question. Thanks

Don't have the Comet, but do have the Traveler. It too has an internal pad pocket, although it is accessed externally whereas the Comet's is accessed internally.

Anything you put into the pad pocket reduces the space available within the packbag.

Wandering Bob

Bob is correct, the pad pocket is part of the inside volume of the Comet. I use an uninflated air mattress, folded up, so the volume it takes up is minimal. Even back when I was using the 2" thick Thermarest LE (folded in thirds), it didn't take up that much space. Again, it was uninflated. I suspect that if you want to use a full length foam pad that can't be folded, like the Ridgerest, the pad pocket would be useless. You could always put a water bladder in the pad pocket, though.

Mary/Bob,

Thanks for your responses. Mary – Do you think that the interior pad pocket affects the pack in any other way other than space. The only reason that I am asking is I have narrowed down a new pack to either the Starlite or the Comet and my gut is pushing me to the Starlite, but the Comet is on sale.

Edit: Pack would be used with a BAIAC or a BA Clearview

As you've undoubtedly noticed, the main difference between the two (other than the location of the pad pocket) is the volume of the main bag–400 cu. in. less for the Comet. It therefore depends on how bulky your gear is. The only times I've used any of the expansion collar on the Comet is when I've been sherpa-ing for grandkids. As I mentioned, a BA or POE air pad (or, presumably, the NeoAir), deflated and folded, takes up very little space whether in the pad pocket or elsewhere. If you put it in the pad pocket, though, you don't need a stuffsack, and it does provide a little padding for your back.

I strongly recommend getting the "optional" (IMHO, required) stays for either pack. The load lifters won't work without them, and an air pad isn't stiff enough to offer much support. You can always leave the stays out for the weekend 15-lb. trip, but you'll definitely want them for longer trips or for trips on which you need to carry extra water.

I suggest that your decision should be based on how much pack space you need, rather than the closeout sale price, tempting as it is. I personally don't like my gear overflowing into the expansion collar, which puts weight and bulk higher than I'd like (I'm definitely "vertically challenged"). You could always order both packs and send one back after you've tried your gear in both.