Canoe Packs/Portage Packs
Choosing a Canoe Pack
Wikipedia says that “A canoe pack, also known as a portage pack, is a specialized type
of backpack used primarily where travel is largely by water punctuated by portages where the gear
needs to be carried over land.”
Sure, you could use a “backpack” for canoe tripping, but they are often too small to carry all your gear,
and too tall to fit well in a canoe.
We’ve designed 3 models of portage pack. All include standard features like custom-fit, 4 handles,
zippered lid pocket, snow cuff, and lots of compression straps.
So, which pack should you choose….
We suggest that your first step is to think about a) how long your trips are, b) how many portages, c)
how much gear you take, and d) how heavy your pack will be.
Think too about your future goals. Do you envision more challenging trips where the portages are longer
and rugged? There is nothing more amazing than a long wilderness trip!
Once you’ve thought it through, check out the chart to see what volume and custom-fit features would
work for you.
If you want your heavy pack to feel “lighter” then consider the Wabakimi internal frame canoe pack.
The internal frame (2 aluminum stays in a framesheet) transfers the weight to your hips. You can feel
the pressure release off your shoulders and back more than with a frameless pack. Your pack is still the
same weight…but will feel lighter and more manageable. Who doesn’t want that!
Pack comparison chart
Wabakimi Internal Frame Canoe Pack
Volume: 96 - 117L (5878-7116 in3)
Custom Fit (All Genders):
- Shoulder Straps / Hip belt (S,M,L,XL)
- Torso (S,M,L)
- Frame sheet with 2 aluminum stays
Description:
- High volume for families and long trips.
- Internal frame for heavy loads and long portages.
- 11” side panel
Winisk Canoe Pack (Frameless)
Volume: 96 - 117L (5878-7116 in3)
Custom Fit (All Genders):
- Shoulder Straps / Hip belt (S,M,L,XL)
- Torso (S,M,L)
Description:
- High volume for families and long trips.
- 11” side panel.
Quetico Canoe Pack (Frameless)
Volume: 79-95L (4809-5822 in3)
Custom Fit (All Genders):
- Shoulder Straps / Hipbelt (S,M,L,XL)
Description:
- Regular size canoe pack.
- Great for compact load, kids to adults.
- 9” side panel.
Voyageur Barrel Harness
Volume: Fits 60L / 30L Barrels (Not included)
Custom Fit (All Genders):
- Shoulder Straps / Hip belt (S,M,L,XL)
- Upper adjustment fits longer torsos.
- Lower adjustment fits shorter torsos.
Description:
- Great for food and gear.
- 3” of padding on the back panel makes this feel like a pack.
- Harness is the full length of the 60L barrel for better fit and load control.
Let’s Talk Canoe Barrels
The food barrel is going to be heavy. We are the only barrel harness with an “Upper Adjustment” that
lengthens the torso.
This is a game-changer for most people. That extra 3 inches makes all the difference in being able to
transfer weight to your hips. And in the ability to pull the top of the barrel in so it doesn’t pull you back
as much. Combined with the 3” cushy back pad, and custom fit, this barrel harness feels like a pack.
So, think about your style of canoe camping now and into the future (our packs do last decades!). And
don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all.