Kit Review – Hill People Gear Junction Pack

Introduction:

The HPG Junction pack is a 22ltr top loading back pack with bare bones features to allow you to carry the basics into the hill for a day trek. It’s design is classic HPG and uses top shelf materials and production to create a bomb proof addition to your outdoor equipment.

Dimensions:

17”x10”x5”

 

The Pack:

I will go over the packs features from top to bottom as follows. On the top of the pack is a small zippered pocket which is ideal for quick access items like a phone or a GPS system or energy snacks. It forms the lid of the pack.

The lid of the pack has dual zippers and there is a grab handle which is a simple webbing construction.

The suspension system is classic HPG and if you have any of their pack systems you will be very familiar with it, suffice to say it is very comfortable and adjustable and more than sufficient for what this pack is designed for.

The back of the pack is padded and has a nine inch wide zippered pocket which is multipurpose, there is a loop of webbing to allow a bladder to be carried, it is also able to hold up to a 13 inch laptop or tablet though the bottom of the compartment/pocket is not padded so I wouldn’t recommend it. Primarily I would add the separate (not included) frame sheet though to add rigidity and help with back support.

The front of the pack has a cord compression system which will allow you cinch tight if required or carry a jacket, tripod etc. There is also a loop of webbing for a karabiner or more cord.

The sides of the pack have two large angled wand pockets which will take Nalgene bottles with ease.

The sides and bottom of the pack have webbing loops to allow for attaching to a larger pack or for any real customisation you can think of.

 

Thoughts:

I have used the pack now for several months and I have used it in several different environments, from urban to woods and in to the hills. The pack itself is not waterproof so a dry sack to line the pack is essential if you are using it in the hills all year round. I have found that the pack can carry load with aplomb and comfort over distance and in a push can carry  a slightly heavier load if required. There is no organisation within this pack so if you need to have organisation in your life (yes you do) then use packing cubes or bags to hold your gear separately. The pack pairs seamlessly with a kit bag though it is NOT belt compatible.

I cannot recommend the Junction pack enough for either a beginner or experienced walker/hiker it carries just enough and maybe a bit more in a push so you can’t really over load it. For a durable bomb proof day pack you can do no better.

 

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