We recently got a chance to play around with the Guide’s Pack, which is another great pack from Tom Bihn. The moment we got hold of the bag, we noticed a lot of room and a superior build. The Guide’s Pack would be the perfect solution for you if a) you are looking for a roomy day pack or overnight pack with great organizing options and b) if you want a pack that is durable and tough that won’t disappoint you during your mountaineering or hiking trips.
The backpack comes in four color options and all of them are simply awesome. It’s a top loader and closes with a drawstring that knots tight with a cord lock. The top flap pocket is actually a three-in-one holder. There are mesh pockets to hold your phone or GPS device.
The large mesh pocket comes with an O-ring that you can tether a pouch or keys. If you are sitting with the backpack on your lap, you can slip a hand under the lid of the buckled up bag and zip open the mesh pocket to get your phone or whatever’s stored there – super convenient!
The backpack comes with comfortably padded and curved shoulder straps. You can adjust the placement angle of the sternum strap, and you can remove it if you want. There is also a waist belt with the backpack to stabilize the weight. The belt is removable as well. The main body of the backpack is made using Parapack fabric. It’s the fabric that was developed for the military to make bags that hold the parachutes. It’s strong, light, and smooth.
Take a look inside and you’ll see the internal structure of the Guide’s Pack. That is the backbone of the bag. There is an aluminum stay that is pre-bent according to the general spinal curve, and you can make adjustments very easily if you want to change the structure.
The Guide’s Pack has two optional side pockets. One of the pockets is the perfect size to hold a water bottle or extra gear. The zipper is flap covered and runs up the top and the side for better access. Under the side pockets, you’ll find a secret zipped pocket that can hold your phone, wallet, or keys. These side pockets are optional but we recommend using them.
The second optional pocket that can be added to the Guide’s Pack is the “Lead’s Pocket”. We love the clam shell design of this pocket and the heavy webbing that can be used to attach knives, tools, and other carry items. The Guide’s Pack is a high quality backpack that looks great and can hold a lot of gear. The structure of the bag is made to align itself with the natural spinal shape. The bag is customizable and can be restructured according to the user’s preference. We have attached a video on the Guide’s Pack for your viewing pleasure. To pick up one of these Guide’s Pack click on the link below.
Do you have any updates on the real-world use of this bag now 3 years later? I keep clicking on the Guide’s Pack on the Tom Bihn website but have yet to “pull the trigger” on the checkout button.
We’ve used the Guide’s Pack and love it! All of Tom Bihn’s packs are made really well. I think if you “pull the trigger” you will not be disappointed.