Just wanted to thank you for this awesome review! I took your recommendation after reconsidering the benefits of a smaller capacity pack and I think I snapped up the last pack available in my size on the web. I can't believe how comfortable it is to trek in-not just painless, but legit comfortable!
Thank you so much for your review, this has helped make my decision on which backpack i should purchase. I am just stumped on if i should get a small or xs, I am about 5 ft, 117lbs, what would you recommend?
Hi Krizia, so glad this has helped you! The small or xs decision really depends on your torso size, not your height. If you can go in to the store and have them measure you, you should do that! Otherwise find a measuring tape and measure yourself- use this website as a guide: www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-torso-hip-size.html and you will have your answer.
+Bianca EF Yes! I used it as a carry on for years. This pack, however, is no longer on the market. I am now using an Osprey Farpoint 55. If you're looking for something similar to the Gregory Jade, I recommend the Osprey Kyte series. All of these packs can be used as a carry on.
+Kanika El You're right they don't sell this version anymore, this video is a couple of years old now! The guidelines still apply though. I would say 53 is plenty for a 3 week trip! Don't go too big, you will regret it. Packing light and only taking what you really need is super liberating. I am carrying an Osprey Farpoint 55 these days, and I've also had an Osprey Kyte 46, both of which I recommend. Check out my packing list for Peru - I went for 3 weeks too! thebudgetmindedtraveler.com/machu-picchu-peru-packing-list/
I'm headed to Peru too! I'm planning to do the Inca trail and currently debating between the Jade 53 or the Osprey Farpoint 55 (I like the idea of a detachable day bag). Since you've done the trail and used both bags, would you still stick with the Jade for the hike to Machu Picchu?
This is tough! I'm facing the same dilemma as I head back to Patagonia for a 5-day trek. I loved having the detachable day pack for the out and back hikes, but the Farpoint 55 really was too big and a little awkward for the through trek itself. It makes more sense, I think, to take a smaller pack for a trek (like a 30-40), and perhaps throw in one of those stuffable daypacks from REI so you can have the option of a small pack when you need it. I hope that helps!
+Jhoan Sanchez I went with the Osprey Kyte 46 and it was perfect for me. it was my carry on bag also. loved the bag. it's a top loader, but it has a side zip also to pull things out quickly. Packing cube made a huge difference too. highly recommend packing cube.
+Traveling Jackie I went with the Osprey Kyte 46 like you recommended. perfect for my height. I hate checking in bags and it was the perfect size for the upper head compartment. thanks. Peru was awesome.
Just wanted to thank you for this awesome review! I took your recommendation after reconsidering the benefits of a smaller capacity pack and I think I snapped up the last pack available in my size on the web. I can't believe how comfortable it is to trek in-not just painless, but legit comfortable!
Awesome! So glad you enjoyed the review!
Great review. Buying one for my wife for our eurotrip!
Thanks, Jake, great choice!
Great review! and great view! I'm going to check out your blog now! :)
Thanks Juli! Glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you so much for your review, this has helped make my decision on which backpack i should purchase. I am just stumped on if i should get a small or xs, I am about 5 ft, 117lbs, what would you recommend?
Hi Krizia, so glad this has helped you! The small or xs decision really depends on your torso size, not your height. If you can go in to the store and have them measure you, you should do that! Otherwise find a measuring tape and measure yourself- use this website as a guide: www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-torso-hip-size.html and you will have your answer.
Would this fit as a carry on on flights?
+Bianca EF Yes! I used it as a carry on for years. This pack, however, is no longer on the market. I am now using an Osprey Farpoint 55. If you're looking for something similar to the Gregory Jade, I recommend the Osprey Kyte series. All of these packs can be used as a carry on.
havent you tried the latest Jade 53? i would love to read your review about that one. Thanks!!!!!
I don't see this model version on REI anymore. Should I go for the J53 or J63? I am going to Peru in April for three weeks.
+Kanika El You're right they don't sell this version anymore, this video is a couple of years old now! The guidelines still apply though. I would say 53 is plenty for a 3 week trip! Don't go too big, you will regret it. Packing light and only taking what you really need is super liberating. I am carrying an Osprey Farpoint 55 these days, and I've also had an Osprey Kyte 46, both of which I recommend. Check out my packing list for Peru - I went for 3 weeks too! thebudgetmindedtraveler.com/machu-picchu-peru-packing-list/
I'm headed to Peru too! I'm planning to do the Inca trail and currently debating between the Jade 53 or the Osprey Farpoint 55 (I like the idea of a detachable day bag). Since you've done the trail and used both bags, would you still stick with the Jade for the hike to Machu Picchu?
This is tough! I'm facing the same dilemma as I head back to Patagonia for a 5-day trek. I loved having the detachable day pack for the out and back hikes, but the Farpoint 55 really was too big and a little awkward for the through trek itself. It makes more sense, I think, to take a smaller pack for a trek (like a 30-40), and perhaps throw in one of those stuffable daypacks from REI so you can have the option of a small pack when you need it. I hope that helps!
+Jhoan Sanchez I went with the Osprey Kyte 46 and it was perfect for me. it was my carry on bag also. loved the bag. it's a top loader, but it has a side zip also to pull things out quickly. Packing cube made a huge difference too. highly recommend packing cube.
+Traveling Jackie I went with the Osprey Kyte 46 like you recommended. perfect for my height. I hate checking in bags and it was the perfect size for the upper head compartment. thanks. Peru was awesome.