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A basic understanding about light weight backpacking is that a tent is only for
sleeping and protection from the elements. The backpack itself is stashed in a
vestibule or outside under a tarp. A larger and heavier tent is therefore not
required to have inside space for all of the gear.
Another alternative is to protect the pack with a raincover. The club
has three Kelty backpack raincovers for use – designated as HR-1 thru
HR-3. The raincover is also used to protect the backpack in case the hike is in
inclement weather. A large garbage bag in many cases will satisfy this basic
need, but these raincovers can provide a better, tighter fit around the pack
itself.
They fit well on club’s HB-18 (3210 cu. in.) and HB-19 (4300 cu. in.) packs
with strapped gear and still had room for adjustment. The raincover did fit over
TEHCC’s largest pack HB-21 (5740 cu. in.), but there was no play in the cinch
cord.
The club has set the rental price at $1 for each trip whether short or long.
While the intent is to use with the club packs, these can also be rented to use
with personal gear to give you a chance to evaluate whether you would want to
invest in your own for regular outings.
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