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A Backpack With Wheels? By Steven Gillman
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| Friday, March 13, 2009 |
I would not have thought of a backpack with wheels that really work for backpackers, but when I saw the website of the "Wheelpacker" (TM), I was impressed. You get a framework that gives a set of wheels. You can even go over logs and rocks. I started thinking about what innovations other backpackers waiting to be marketed. Here are some of the things I came up with. Steal these ideas, please.
Marco inflatable bag
Unless framed backpacks often folded sleeping pills in the packet buffer against the back and some support for the load. Why are not part of the package that is supported against the back of the user to inflate. With the same technology used for self-inflating pads lightweight sleeping bag, only add about six ounces. The bag could then double as a sleeping foot-bag/pad.
Taking this idea, I imagine a self-inflating bag that folds out into a sleeping pad. The backpack "framework" would be the pad in a "U" shape of a certain rigidity in the package. Free sleeping bag inflating pads are light, 14 oz now, and a minimum of 12-ounce packages, so the combination would be likely to weigh only 20 ounces.
Wax Paper Food
Backpacking put food in containers of wax paper instead of plastic. The packages then double as emergency fire starters, since the wax tends to burn paper even when wet.
Pillow / Waterbag
When I have to carry more water than I use the plastic bladders from boxed wine. They are light, strong, and inflates the air bag to use as a pillow too. To market a dual purpose water / pillow, you just need a soft removable covering of some sort.
Jacket Bag
Why not a less jacket with a backpack that is part of the flock? It can be deployed on the shape and packaging have normal braces. When wearing the jacket, however, is to stabilize the container, keep warm, and easy to push through thick and that does not catch things so easily. Is like using a coat on a large backpack, but with the weight saving and stability that comes from the combination. It could be called a "Pack-it Jacket."
Game backpacking
Print a chess / inspectors on board a jacket or backpack and dragged along a game that weighs no more. Ideal to spend hours in the tent in anticipation of rain. If you do not carry the parts, rocks or pinecones can work as inspectors.
Backpacking gear to keep the ideas and innovations appearing in my head as I write this. Most are based on the idea of "dual purpose" items. They may work, some may not, but it is an entertaining dose of inspiration from a backpack with wheels.
Steve Gillman is a long-time advocate of lightweight backpack. His advice, photos, gear recommendations and a free book can be found at http://www.TheUltralightBackpackingSite.com |
posted by neptunus @ 4:38 PM
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