Pack Liner vs Dry Sack: GoLite Pinnacle

I have a Pinnacle. I used a hefty trash compactor bag. I put my sleeping bag, clothes, and whatever else I want to keep dry in it, roll it up and then put other stuff (stuff that can get wet) on top of it. No need for dry bags unless you are using your Pinnacle as a float toy.

In case you're wondering about size…here is a photo. As you can see, the TC bag covers my Pinnacle.

Lee:

Liner or sack — two equally effective ways to protect your gear. Which one to use? I think much depends on your preference — and the design of your pack as well.

For me, I like the convenience of a liner. Simply insert, then I pack as I normally would. Finally, I twist the end tightly and bend it downward (pointing toward the ground) like an upside down U — and keep it in place by cinching the pack tight. If cross streams or canoeing, I may add a rubber band for extra safety. That's it.

I don't use dry sacks for the same reasons why I don't use stuff sacks (except for a small one to house the small misc. stuff). Packing individual sacks (presumably you will want one for your bag, another for your clothes, still another for your food, etc.) takes extra time and effort. As well, having individual 'bundles' makes packing inefficient space wise.

OTOH, the pack you use will likely make a difference. My pack has a front pocket and 2 hip belt pockets. The stuff I will likely need during the day are placed in those pockets — protected by ziploc bags. If your pack is just "one big hole" with no outside pockets, using a liner might be less convenient — although not necessarily a show stopper.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for your comments.
I'll try a pack liner first with as many ziploc bags as necessary for exterior pockets.
Will consider the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Pack Liner unless anyone has a better suggestion for the pack volumedimensions?
Less is best…

I also want to thank everyone for their input, and especially the P Larson's picture.
I recently picked up a Pinnacle and have been thinking through the same question.

I have seen lots and lots of references on BPL about trash compactor bags but have not remembered to pick some up when I was at a store. I was always curious about why folks like them over a regular old contractor-grade trash bag.

Z packs also makes cuben pack liners to fit the dimensions of your pack.