Choose this pack if you prefer a smaller yet spacious design, as it has useful features and the durability of larger options. While much of the trail is under shaded tree canopy, you’ll still want to use sunscreen to prevent any burns. The Ozark Trail Association maintains a number of maps to help you traverse each section of the trail. If you are using your phone for navigation, bring a paper copy of a map in case you lose signal or find yourself without battery. Trail maps are free to print at home or available for purchase at the online store. Tents, hammocks or open-air camping — you can do it all according to your comfort level. Be aware, this is a daypack, intended for lighter loads and shorter distances. It isn't built to be on your back 8 hours a day, and it won't support 25 pounds. Used for its intended purpose, this is one of the best hiking/backpacking deals I've ever come across. Keeping the load under 15 pounds seems to be the key. I really wanted to use it for our fall two-nighter on the AT, but was unable to fit my bivy with a 20 degree Kelty Cosmic down bag inside. I contemplated stepping down to the 45 degree bag, but thankfully, did not. Aside from the main pack bag, there is a small zippered compartment on the front, that, depending on how much you have stuffed inside, is pretty tight. I managed to fit my headlamp, lighter, map, compass, and some tp in the pocket. Bring enough water for your trip or a way to purify water to make it safe to drink. Many of the creeks and streams look crystal clear, but it’s still smart to make sure any impurities are removed with pumps or tablets before drinking. Whether you’re planning an epic thru-hike or an out-and-back weekend excursion, this guide will help you get started on your Missouri adventure. Find the best backpack for your next outdoor adventure using our independent reviews and ratings. Tracking will be available once your product is shipped. Each individual product may be shipped from different fulfillment centers across the globe as our product research team spends the time to source for quality yet affordable products. Please allow business days of processing and production time for your order to ship out. When you do have to answer the call of the wild, make sure to stay at least 100 yards away from a water source and bury any solid waste at least 6 inches deep. Backpacking stoves are a convenient way to boil water for dehydrated meals and instant coffee without adding a lot of weight to your pack. Trailspace's community of gear reviewers has field-tested and rated the top daypacks. For storage options, there is a large zippered main compartment, a padded laptop sleeve and front accessory pockets. This bag was also designed with water bottle pockets to keep hydration within reach and side compression straps to help stabilize the load. It is made from 420D recycled polyester fabric and has a 600D polyester abrasion-resistant bottom that offers maximum durability. An adjustable sternum strap and air mesh-padded back and shoulder straps help you get a comfortable and customizable fit every time. The longest continuous stretch available for hiking in as of 2008[update] is 225 miles (362 km), from Onondaga Cave State Park to the Eleven Point River. The exact routes for incomplete sections have not been established, so the total length of the trail when completed remains undetermined. The Ozark Trail 45 Liter Backpacking Backpack has all the features of a premium bag but at a lower budget friendly price. It has everything you need to get a beginner started with backpacking.