When I was looking for an ultralight hiking pack I knew what kind of pack I was chasing, but I was pretty green when it came to the options out there. So, after a bit of online research I turned to a buddy of mine that had just finished hiking the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail); his recommendation – the Hyperlite Junction.
As he wasn’t using it for a bit, I borrowed his well-used pack and took it out on a couple of adventures. Despite being carried over 4000km on the Pacific Crest Trail the pack was dirty, but still fully functional with only a small repair made in the front mesh pocket. Jack’s recommendation, the condition of his borrowed pack, and my own experiences with it were enough to convince me to make the purchase.
Features of the Hyperlite Junction
I’m going to talk about the notable features of the Hyperlite Junction, but before I do I’d first like to reference the ‘lack’ of features! One of my dislikes of most hiking packs found in outdoor stores is their ‘busy-ness’. Pockets within pockets, loops and hoops, mega padding and zippers galore all combine to become one big turn-off. For me.
What attracts me to ultralight packs, and the Hyperlite Junction in particular, is the seeming lack of features. The main packing compartment is exactly that, just one large hole. Sure there’s a slim mesh pocket within that cavernous space, but there’s not a zipper in sight. The opening to the main compartment is secured by a long Velcro strip – simple and, importantly, unlikely to break. A cinching strap hoops over the main compartments opening, allowing for extra compression of the pack and a space to carry a jacket, sleeping mat, tripod, extra dry bag, and so on.
Turning to the front of the pack, the junction features a large mesh pocket. I don’t know the capacity for this pocket but it sure holds a lot and I use it with abandon. In good weather, it’s a great spot for snacks and a rain jacket, but it’s stronger than you might think and can handle heavy items too. Using a small dry bag or two it definitely extends the carrying capacity of the pack.
On either side of the pack are compression straps and a large water bottle pocket. These easily fit a Nalgene, with room for a bit extra on either side. The compression straps can also be used to hold in longer items.
Straps: the straps themselves are nice and simple and pretty slimline compared to many other packs. I find them plenty comfortable and that possibly because I tend to carry a lighter pack weight while using this pack and therefore don’t miss having the ‘extra’ padding. I mentioned at the start that I don’t like busy packs and the hip belt area of straps are verging on the edge of busy, but I’m letting it slide. Two small zippered pockets *urgh* sit on the slightly padded hip belt and I don’t tend to use them particularly, but they have come in handy on the odd occasion. A chest strap with a whistle buckle rounds out the features of the Hyperlite Junction – nice and simple.
Hiking with the Hyperlite Junction
After my initial testing hike in Bungonia Gorge, I’ve since taken my Hyperlite Junction on many hikes in Australia and beyond. I packed it full to bursting on a freezing winter hike in Tasmania, following the Walls of Jerusalem circuit. Carried it for a week of hiking in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Used it daily on a family trip to Japan, and many more trips besides.