Backpack, binder bag, or shoulder bag?

I already have a backpack and I have used it for 2 years, it's very good for camping, picnic and outdoor activities, when when I put my stuff in it, especially binder, i doesn't fit very well and it's hard to get things out. When I already got my binder out, it took me a long time to put it back. I'm thinking of buying a new bag this weekend so I come up with a shoulder bag and a binder bag (the thing that looks like a shoulder bag but it's actually a binder). Can you tell me which is better to buy. I'm thinking of a binder bag right now because it takes me no time to get stuff out. But i usually carry story books, workbook (activity book) or water bottle, calculator, and stuff like that. Is binder bag the best choice for me? (I usually carry heavy things, my backpack is really heavy right now, so which one is the best choice for me?
BTW, I'm a boy
I don't know which section to ask this question so, I think that this is the most visited section, so I just put my question here
May be something fits my laptop when i go to high school would be nice

Answer
i personally like my jansport backpack ... i like to be able to put it on and still have my hands free for whatever ... i have a great one that will hold my laptop in one zippered section, books in another zippered section and there is a bigger zipped pocket on the front that holds cell phone, pens, etc., ... on the outside on the side is a mesh pocket for a water bottle ... on the outside of the smallest zippered section is another zippered pocket and at the top is a zippered pocket for my ipod ... the back and contoured straps are well padded and jansport backpacks are guaranteed for life ... i know you are a boy but i have a pink one and i throw it in the wash and dryer and it comes out looking like new ... i have easily had my current one for more than five years ...

http://www.jansport.com/

Backpacking with dog in So Cal?

Jason B

Are there any places in southern California where you can take your dog backpacking (not just day hiking)? We already practice good trail etiquette (leash laws & solid waste removal) and he's in pretty good shape (already does 15+ mile hikes).

Answer
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/recreation/hiking/
Undeveloped or Dispersed Area Camping in the "San Bernardino National Forest" on the "Pacific Crest Trail"
http://www.pcta.org/
http://gorp.away.com/gorp/publishers/foghorn/dog_la3.htm
Undeveloped or Dispersed areas are designated areas away from highways and development where camping along back roads or trails is permitted. Because of year-around fire danger, wood or charcoal fires are not allowed (includes charcoal in a BBQ). Chemical or propane stoves may be used if you have a free California Campfire Permit, which may be obtained at the local Ranger Station. "Know before you go" and check at the nearest Ranger Station for a map of the Remote Camping Areas and the current fire restrictions.

General Rules for remote camping:
â¢No wood or charcoal fires
â¢Chemical and propane stoves allowed with California Campfire Permit
â¢Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads
â¢Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads
â¢Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways
Pack out all trash
â¢Leave no trace

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Any advice to my son going into middle school?

XxATLfan4l

Answer
Just make sure he KNOWS what is going on and what he is responsible for. He must also be highly organized and keep track of assignments and deadlines in an agenda (be sure that you check it every night).

Elementary schools tend to hand-hold kids, but once in middle school they are expected to be more independent. Just remember, in elementary school he had a few teachers and was in a class with maybe 25 - 30 kids. He will now have 7 classes/teachers a day who will each see about 150 students a day.

If he is absent, it is HIS responsibility to ask for the missed work...no one will hand it to him (or remind him) like when he was in elementary school.

If he is late to class without an excusable reason, this is cause for detention or a referral to the office (they don't play around in middle school).

Also, school lunches will be a little different. In elementary school, he maybe had a choice of 2 meals from the school menu. He will now have the option of eating french fries, pizza, and other junk food everyday if he chooses (most middle school cafeterias are like a mall food court - - - and people wonder why we have an obesity epidemic in this country!) ~ sorry to get on my soap box.

If your son is worried about being stuffed into a locker as is depicted on nearly every 'tween sitcom, there is no way that is possible. The lockers are so small, you can barely hang up a winter coat (don't buy a backpack with wheels either...it will never fit!). Have him practice using a combination lock at home so by the time school starts, he will be an old pro.

He will also have to get used to changing for gym class which he did not have to do previously (I think it is highly outdated, but I don't make the rules).

Finally, enjoy him for the next 2 years! Once he hits 8th grade, if he is like many boys that age, he will become possessed by hormones and do anything to get girls' attention. He will probably be highly annoying to you, but just know that it is a phase that will soon pass (even though it sometimes seems like an eternity).

He will do fine and within the first 2 weeks or so, he will really enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that he has.

Is my daughter materialistic or is this normal for tweens?

Mara

My latest shopping experience with my eleven year old DD was... Not what I expected. So, we had planned a day for just us two to go shopping. As usual, I drove her to the mall and took her to our usually starting place, JC Penney. She said, "Mom, I don't really want to shop here..." So I shrugged my shoulders, said, "Alright, let's check out The Children's Place." I glanced at my daughter for a split second just to see her face look mortified. My DD said, "I don't want to go there either." I then replied, "Well why not!"
DD: Because I will get laughed at at school!
ME: Nonsense! What about Old Navy?
DD: That's social suicide, Mom
ME: Well, then where do you want to go, Paige?
DD: Um... Let's try abercrombie! Then we can go To Forever 21, which is close by. Then we'll go upstairs and go to Aeropostale, Delias, and PacSun!
ME: Aren't those a bit mature for you?
DD: NO MOM. COME ON.

She said that in quite an angry way. We had no problem shopping at JCP, TPC, and Old Navy before. Stepping into these "tween" stores were quite a new experience for me. There was dim lighting and ear-pounding music everywhere! All in all, for my daughter's back to school shopping, we purchased one pair of jeans, a cardigan, and a hoodie from abercrombie kids, a dress from Aeropostale, two tops and a barette from Forever 21, one pair of jeans, a cardigan, and a t-shirt from Hollister, and a camisole, a dress from Abercrombie and Fitch, a backpack from PacSun (roxy brand), earrings from Claire's, and two shirts and jeans from Delias. However, I was shocked at the total everything came up to. Is it normal for my daugter to want expensive clothes from these stores? Is she materialistic or are you moms of tween girls also experiencing this?

Answer
This is normal for her age!

I know that back when I was 11, everyone, was so into growing up, and changing. Especially me, I was tired of how I dressed, I wanted to dress a little grown up.

But keep your eyes on her, because, if you let her get clothes that seem too grown up, her attitude will be horrible (by that I mean, she will change everything about herself, and become the type you do not want).

She'll get over it by 12, I know I did! Keep her focused on her school's, and maybe if you put her in programs like... math programs, she won't have time to focus on clothes, that are too grown up for her age, and she'll focus more on school ;)

Abrecombe, and Forever 21 aren't bad stores though, they're just not for 11 year olds, they're for teens! You can let her shop there, but make sure you know what she's buying, and if you don't like it, give her your opinion on it :)

Good luck!

xoxo: irina :)

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Name as much prep stores as you can?

tonynguyen

Name as much prep brands as you can
winner gets 10 points =)

Answer
abercrombie kids
abercrombie and fitch
hollister
banana republic
delias
alloy
roxy
juicy cuitore
wet seal
forever 21
american eagle
lacoste
burberry
coach
gap
club libby lu
limited too
niemans
some of nordstoms
ugg australia
sugar (shoes)
aeropostale
victoria secret (kinda)
ralph lauren/polo
bebe
guess (kinda)
betsy johnson
armani
charlotte ruse
tiffanys
chanel
kate spade
the co op
calvin klein
dolche and gabana
gadzooks
sanrio
BP
paul frank
frenchi
ruby rox
puma (sometimes)
tommy hilfigure
express
buckle
bui ya kah
vera bradly
Lilly Pulitzer
L.L. Bean
gucci
birkenstock
old navy
marc jacobs
dooney&bourke
louis vuitton
ann taylor
liz clayborne
lucky
prada
talbots
talbots kids
macys
saks
chloe
american sherif
xhileration
lower east side (shoes)
dilliards
claires
pacsun (kinda)
luca luca
jansport (backpacks)
rue 21
kohls
bloomingdales
DDE
crafy couture
disney couture
gap kids
icing
journeys
north face
klub nico
heather hyde
dkny
moon
jc penny
silhouettes
keds
sara jayne
nine west
H&M
levi
converse
rainbow
bongo
so low
akademiks
svoboda
vanity
fred flare
BCBGirls
urban outfitters
BB dakota
club monaco
echo
skechers
gwen stafani line
hilary duff line
jaime mascaro
charles david
anthropologie
tilt
aldo
hurley
baby phat
phat farm
doll house
givenchy
the limited
Eddie Bauer
Brooks Brothers
Patagonia
vineyard vines
fossil
ruehl no. 925
nautica
dots
platos closet
justice
lands end
bealls
ross
tjmaxx
marshalls
loyal army
a fine mess
johny m
palais royal
mudd

ps. a lot of these brands may seem fake..but theyre not they are just brands youd find at stores if u look hard enough

Helpppp! if anyone knows alot about school law, we need your opinion on this school law case!?

KaylaBear2

my group and I are doing a project where were defending a school district in the following scenario. its a hard case and we need others opinions pleaseeeee. :)

okay so the school is very highly ethnically diverse and it has a reputation of being free from disciplinary problems such as fighting and racism.
lately students have been getting into tiffs over some racial issues and admin. was hearing about possible fights and everyone was told to be alert about weapons and other actions that could lead to fights.

one day at lunch, Teacher 1 had her wallet stolen from her bag in the classroom and a 20 dollar bill was in it.

after school, a student went to the student store to buy some supplies. he put his sweatshirt and backpack on a desk and went to the counter to buy his stuff. he paid with a 20$ bill.

Teacher 2 who was running the store noticed the billl an was suspicious. she went to the desk where the students stuff was and since the front pocket of the backpack was open, she peered inside but didnt touch anything. she thought Teacher 1 wallet would be in there. instead she found a pocket knife.

Teacher 2 went to the VP to let him know about the weapon.

The VP knows that the student is in Teacher 1 class and that the student has defacing school property on his record from freshman year but he was an excellent student. The VP told the student to empty his pockets. the student did so and nothing was in his pockets. The VP then looked through the students backpack and sweatshirt and he found the knife. student said he forgot to take it out because he went on a camping trip the weekend before. the VP suspended him and told the principal. Teacher 2 told the principal that she went through the students belongings becasue she was suspicious about the wallet theft and looked for nothing else.

the principal recommended to the district that the student be expelled for violating the zero tolerance policy on weapons. the students parents are sueing the school.

How is the school right in this decision? how can the school defend themselves? any additional advice would be appreciated

Answer
The problem with asking this question such a broad forum as Y!A is that there are so many school districts with so many different policies. Districts and individual schools themselves each have their own policies, so long as those policies don't run contrary to established laws of the county, state or federal government (for example you can't have a school policy that vandals will have their hands cut off.)
However, the specific issues in this case fall into a problematic area. While if there were adults we were talking about in a public place, there would be several violations of due process, most school districts are more or less allowed to violate student's rights to privacy, freedom of speech and right to trial and due process with utter impunity. The broad legal concept is called "in loco parentis" and basically means the students can be treated as thought the teachers were their parents. Parents don't need probably cause, search warrants or a trial to ground their children. Schools can basically due whatever they want to students so long as it doesn't break laws on abuse or harassment.
In court, this could get highly contentious because expulsion technically denies a child the right to education they are entitled to under law. In this case, the reason for expulsion could be ruled as "capricious" or "excessive" (that is, the kid didn't hurt anyone, rather the possession of a knife was a technicality). The reasoning is that the student did not show intent to harm anyone and he may very well be telling the truth that he brought it by accident. A "zero tolerance" policy does not allow for accidents or mistakes and thus punishes people who had no criminal intent. This is not "justice" because it is unfair, and illustrates how the law and justice can easily diverge.

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Missour Backpacking?

mucentermi

What are the best Missouri backpacking trails and where are they located?

Answer
Danny's Missouri Backpacking & Hiking Trails Reviews
http://www.motrails.com/

Missouri Hiking Trail Finder
http://www.slackpacker.com/map_mo.html

Best Hiking Backpack?

Christian

I will be going on a 50 mile hike over the course of 5 days in about a month and I am looking for a good backpack. I really don't have a lot of money to blow on this so I am looking for a real bargain. I am thinking of the Jansport Klamath 75 which I could get for about $120, the High Sierra Explorer 55 which I could get for about $70, and the Jansport Big Bear 82 Internal Backpack - 2010 Model which I could get for about $68. I am currently leaning towards one of the cheaper two but since I have really looked at the third I threw it in as well. I am looking for some good evidence as to why one might be better and preferably personal experience as well. If you have other recommendations in this price range, that would be great as well. Although I would love to spend $300+ on a pack I really can't justify much more than 100 right now. Any help would be great. Thanks!

Answer
i looked at reviews of the three packs you listed.

the explorer is too heavy. 5 pounds plus.

jansport has been making packs for years. i used to have an old frame pack of theirs back in the late 70's. can't say that high sierra is a name i have seen in the higher end packs.

i know the klamath costs the most but it is the best of the three. its only 3 lb. 14 oz. and it's a real good size. it has a separate sleeping bag compartment, more pockets and you can use it on overnighters and week long trips. besides i like 4600 cu in packs. it kind of gives you a limit on how much stuff you can take. to me it's a clean looking pack.

the big bear just a bit heavier and it only has one compartment, but if money is really an issue then this would be number 2.

pick a jansport and you will carry that pack for years.

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Should middle school children have lockers in school?

Viper-Vic

My 11 year old daughter is upset that she doesn't and wanted me to ask.
Her backpack is over 30 pounds and has to be brought to all her classes and home with her.
What do you all think.
Remember an 11 year old will be reading these answers.
Thanks.

Answer
Tell the principal. Kids often get back problems because of heavy backpacks, they are at an age where they are growing and having a 30 lbs backpack on your back for the five minutes between each class is enough to hurt it. I blame this for my shortness and back problems.

There is even a law about this:
http://poynter.org/dg.lts/id.2/aid.7427/column.htm

Does having a heavy backpack stunt upper body growth?

Xcal

I have a short upper body, so I think this might be the reason. I weigh 110 pounds and probably have a 15 pound backpack, what do you think?

Answer
Jane Sadler, a physician at Baylor Medical Center in Garland, Texas, said children's growth plates could be affected by undue stress. This would not stunt growth but may cause the early onset of arthritis in later life.

The experts recommended investing in relatively light backpacks, which place the weight on the shoulders, and with adjustable straps to prevent heavy loads from moving or being slung lower down the back.

Sorry buddy, sometimes genetics just suck.

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Backpacking around USA?

kittykat

Hey, I live in New zealand and have never been overseas before. I really want to go on a backpacking trip around the usa but I hear the country is huge haha and I have no idea what it's like. Can someone who has done it tell me how much it would cost, how long to go for, what parts of the usa are best and any other information you think i would need to know. Thanks very much for all answers and please no stupid answers :)

Answer
Do you mean backpacking as in traveling from hostel to hostel by train or bus?
If so, it will be more expensive than a like travel in NZ, I guess one and half the cost, plan on twice the cost to be secure.
There are many hostels in the USA too, they are just not as well known.
In the past I have used the HI hostels, check the website of Hosteling International to get an idea how many hostels they have and where they are. Also do a search for hostels and a city you want to go to and check with one of the hostel booking sites that come up. Read the reviews of the hostels you think are intersting. Do search on the name and address of the hostel and review.
In smaller towns motels are often a good option, but when there it is not as easy to meet fellow travelers, therefor I prefer hostels myself.

Now you have an idea how many hostels and where and how to find them you will have to decide how much and which part(s) of the USA to travel. You can not do all, not even a sizable part.
If you want to do some of the main cities spread over the country, like NYC, LA and Dallas, you best plan flights between them, but if you want to travel by train or bus you can look up the networks for that.
There are passes that allow you a lot of travel within a short time, Greyhound and Amtrak are the names to search for. This page also has a lot of info and links to more: http://www.seat61.com/UnitedStates.htm
See the map a little down the page, the Amtrak lines in one neat little package.
If you go for bus travel, better for shorted distances, small towns and away from the railroads, and cheaper overal, check the reviews on that bus company for that particular line or area. Some are reputed to be bad, others have no problems.
I would budget $200 per day, but I guess you can get by on $100 per day if you go on the cheapest options of bus, short distances and hostels or even couch surfing: http://www.couchsurfing.org/

If I misunderstood and you do mean backpacking as in walking with your things on your back, tent, sleeping bag and so on, you will still have to pick one part of the USA. A famous trail would be the most likely option.

I have only seen a small part of the USA, being New York state and city, and a few areas close to it, and by no means all of NY, so I can not tell you which part of the USA are best. But I know what is best for you, namely those parts that say "America" or "States" to you. If you have always wanted to see the Grand canyon no USA travel without it will be right, even though traveling there might be difficult by public transport.
It might be a good idea to combine individual travel with a week on a bus tour, or even a few weeks.
It is going to be YOUR holiday of a lifetime, make it yours, by doing what YOU want to do.

BACKPACKING AND CAMPING?

Kevin Mccl

I WILL BE GOING ON A BACKPACKING TRIP WITH MY BROTHER IN JULY FOR 4-5 DAYS HIKING ABOUT 12-15 MILES AND LAST TIME WE WHEN I WAS VERY UNCONFORMABLE BECAUSE MY BACKPACK I WAS WODERING WHAT WOULD BE A GOOD BACKPACK? THANK YOU! =)

Answer
I've owned a number of backpacks but by far my favorite has been the Osprey Aether 85 Pack. This back combines comfort with maximum load capabilities. For me, it really has been the Rolls Royce of backpacks.

Here are a few other owner reviews I was able to find on this particular bag:

"I got this pack for a 75 mile backpacking trip in New Mexico (Philmont). I have taken it on a couple practice hikes and it is incredibly comfortable. I love how little it ways."

"I've had the last generation of this pack for about 4 years. It's been to about 10 countries, up Mt.Kilimanjaro, conquered the JMT, 4 day kayak trip, etc... This is THE best large extended trip pack on the market. Pay the extra $ and thank me later."

"I just went up Mt. Whitney with this pack and I really liked how comfortable it was and how well it fit. When I got to the top, my shoulders and upper body felt fine. The pockets and straps were conveniently placed. Balance was good and my back had good air circulation."

You should absolutely go in and try on a few different bags and find out what works best for you. However, I can tell you from personal experience...this one is a goodie!

Happy Trails!

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Could I get on disability?

blondechic

I am currently having health problems. Because of these health issues I am unable to work and I cannot afford health insurance. I have been without health insurance for 6 years. My only option is getting health insurance through disability.

Here is the list of problems I am currently facing:

Asthma- Iâve had asthma ever since I was a baby. All through school, I had to take an inhaler. It has stopped me from doing physical activity and I canât be outside during the summer due to humidity. So summers consist of me sitting in the house under the fan watching TV all day.

Anemia- My periods have been irregular ever since I was 15 or 16. When I had health insurance, I went to the doctor and told her I would go months without having a period and she told me that it was normal for girls my age to miss their periods and not to worry about it. At one time, I went about 4-5 months without a menstrual cycle. My last period started the first week of January and ended the last week of March. The whole time, my period was heavy. I was going through 40 maxi pads in the matter of 3-4 days. I ended up going to the hospital when I had a toothache and mentioned it to them at the hospital. The doctor told me that my blood level was at 7 and I was extremely anemic and needed a blood transfusion ASAP. But because I have no health insurance, I am unable to do it. The doctor prescribed me birth control pills and iron pills. I have finished taking the birth control and have no refills. Because my blood level is so low, I am unable to catch my breath. I walk 10-20 feet from my chair to the bathroom and I start sweating and wheezing. I am overweight, but I could walk 5 miles a few months ago without losing my breath once! Iâm also losing my concentration. One day I was telling my mom something and everything was erased. I couldnât remember anything that I was going to tell her. She kept repeating my last words to me, but I didnât know what she was talking about.

Anxiety/Panic Attacks- I have had anxiety and panic attacks ever since I was around 15. They happen when I am in situations that I am not comfortable in or if I get in a stressful situation. Because I have such panic attacks, my mom has to go everywhere with me. I am currently a college student, but because of my panic attacks and the fact that I canât handle social situations, I have to take all my classes online.

Depression- I was diagnosed with depression the same time I was with anxiety and panic attacks. With my depression, I have no suicidal thoughts or alcohol or drug abuse. For me, I donât do drugs or alcohol because I feel that I deserve to be in pain. Before I was diagnosed with depression I had a lot of friends. I was always active and was very skinny and healthy. I stayed around 100-110 pounds. After my depression, I stopped doing active things and start watching TV more and more. I now weight almost 250 pounds.

PTSD- I have not been diagnosed with PTSD, but I am thinking that I have it. I didnât just wake up one day with depression and anxiety. When I was about 12-13, I had a friend. I met her in 6th grade and we instantly became friends. I would be at her house and she would be at mine. Her older brother took a liking of me and he had a crush on me and constantly asked me to be his girlfriend, which I politely declined since he freaked me out (one day he followed me and my mom to the video store!). I had just started middle school and for the first time I was at the same school as this boy. While at school, I would pass him in the hall and he would make sex noises to me. He would moan and constantly say my name. Then one day after school, while I was walking, he reached and tried to grab my butt. But because I had my backpack in the way, instead of grabbing my behind, he broke my backpack. And then one day I went to my friendâs house. I was a little wary since her dad was gone, but I thought that since she was there, I would be alright. When she left to go to the bathroom, he jumped from his video game and jumped on top of me and pinned my arms back. I was already on edge so I was prepared. When he did this I immediately kicked him in defense and he toppled over and hit his head on the chair. When my friend got out of the bathroom, she got mad at me and told me to leave. Ever since this has happened, I cannot be alone in a room with a male. If I have to, I start having a panic attack and then I start crying hysterically because I cannot get the image of what happened out of my head. Because of this, I am 24 years old (going to be 25 in January) and I have never had a boyfriend, Iâm still a virgin, and Iâve never had me first kiss! I feel like a total loser. Before all of this happened, I always pictured me being married and starting a family by 25 (Iâve never been the wild child), But now, I am lucky if I leave my house once a month, let alone once a week.

So what do you think? So I have a chance to get on disability?

Answer
Asthma is generally not so disabling because it can be managed with proper medication

Birth Control -- in the vast majority of states, women can go on Medicaid for the purpose of birth control -- this means the only thing that will be covered is your birth control --- if being on birth control helps correct the anemia, then I suggest you apply for Medicaid Birth Control coverage (they don't need to know you are a virgin... just tell them you need birth control)

in some states you can get on Medicaid if you are medically needy & household income is at or below poverty level ---- if your state is one of those states, then talk with your doctor & see if can justify writing to Medicaid to ask for medical necessity Medicaid

Anemia -- iron supplements are good... but not nearly as effective as dietary changes... I know.. I have been there-done this ---- eat cows liver 2-4 times a week, beef 2 times a week, oysters 1-2 times per week, eat spinach & broccoli every other day (eat spinach in large amounts one day, then broccoli the next), eat beets every day, eat some form of beans (lentils, lima beans, kidney beans, etc...) at least every other day

Without seeking treatment for mental health disorders (depression, anxiety & panic attacks) then you have no way to prove that it did not get better with treatment... this means you won't be approved based on this

you can't even claim PTSD because you have not even been diagnosed, much less through treatment

PCIP is the early roll-out of "Affordable Care Act"... It is no longer accepting applications as of Feb 16... there is current discussion in congress to put more funds into PCIP (taking from future affordable care act funding) & if they decide to do so, then they will re-open PCIP to applications ----- I warn you, it is not-so-affordable... my bf is one of only 1,000 people who got on it before enrollment got cut-off. Between his monthly premiums & his deductible (not counting his co-pays or his medicines) the cost of his medical care will be over $10,000 in 2013... including his co-pays & medicines it will be @ $15,000-$20,000
https://www.pcip.gov/


For those who recommend you use left-over fin aid for medical care.... they need to read FAFSA funding guidelines... extensive medical care is not an allowable expense to pay using Fin Aid..... even medical insurance premiums can only be paid with fin aid IF having medical coverage is required as part of your curriculum (for example you are a nursing student & at the point of clinical, in order to do clinical you are required to provide proof of health insurance) ----- if you get caught using FAFSA generated fin aid overage for things that are not approved, then you risk no longer being allowed to use fin aid & also having to refund the overage used improperly

there is a way around this... have your mom write a lease saying you must pay ___ per month towards rent & utilities (you are allowed a small amount for living expenses... from my bf school's COA we were able to justify @ $600 per month towards rent, utilities, and food).... and pay her out of your left over fin aid.... then have her pay your PCIP premium, deductible, and co-pays

You are under 26 & if you are a full-time college student, then your parents can add you to the health insurance they have through their employers

Which guy does it seem like I have a crush on? Do either one of them seem to like me back?

Cheer4Life

So theres this guy. I don't know if i like him. He's really sweet to me, but I'm not sure if I feel that way. I also have feelings for another guy that I've liked for a LONG time. Anyway, people say he likes me, but I don't know. It seems like it. Every morning i have to come to school early for Jazz band practice (30 minutes before school starts). Well we both showed up at the same time, and we were walking in and he carried my back pack for me. I was walking against a wall, and he was really close to me. It seemed like he wanted to grab my hand, but he didn't. A big group of my friends and I went trampolining one day. I had to stop and retie my cheer shoes (I'm a cheerleader) and he tied them for me. And he also let me have some of his water afterwards. Then, during concert band, he was behind me (he plays the drums) and he started playing with my hair. It was kinda weird haha. And at a band concert we were back stage (we got their an hour early) and he kept flirting with me. During lunch one day, he came by and sat next to me, and he told me corny jokes like "What shoulder do you like more? this one (points to one of my shoulders) or this one (my other shoulder)?" and he wrapped is arm around me and pulled me close. He pulled me so close i was nearly sitting on him. It felt funny, because he's REALLY shy and we really aren't too close. Afterwards, like weeks later, it became our little inside joke. So i told him the joke and put my arm around him (just acting like a friend) and then he put his arm on me. The last day before winter break a big group of my friends went downtown to hang out. He carried my backpack the whole time. We were crossing the street and i felt his fingers touch mine. It was like he was trying to hold my hand. Me and my best friend were gonna head home, but then he pulled me to the side (everyone else was taking group pictures) and he just instantly hugged me. It was the longest hug ever. I was pressed up against him and it was really weird. I've never had someone hug me like that. It was forever. At least it felt this way. I tried pulling away because i wasn't expecting that at all. But he pulled me back into a hug. Once he was done hugging me, he slowly pulled away and looked right into my eyes. I was really confused what was going on, so i kept looking around. He said "See you next year" (in 2013 haha). And then we both walked back to the group. My friend i guess saw that whole thing and texted me "Do you guys have a thing" In all honesty, i don't know if i like him the way he likes me.
I can't stop thinking about that hug. Its been 2 weeks. I think about it at least 2 times a day. I want to relieve that moment every day. I think I like him, but (as mean/weird) as this sounds, i don't know if i want to like him. I think i'm falling hard. I never really thought about everything he's done for me....
BUT, theres this other guy. And i like him. But i don't know if he likes me. During the beginning of the school year, I was at a High school football game. His little sister (who is the cutest thing to walk this planet) said "You're pretty! My brother would like you!!!" because i was in my cheer uniform (middle school. We were preforming at halftime) and then she drug me over to him and yelled "SHES PRETTY!!!!" and he was like "Yes, she is very pretty" I'm not sure if that was just because he wanted to agree with her, or if he actually thought i was pretty. Then, we went trampolining (the guy i talked about earlier was there!) and he betted me that i couldn't do more back flips in a row. I beat him and he said "Good job my lil' cheerleader" (hes a football player, i'm a cheerleader). After band one day my binder ripped and half of my papers fell out. It was raining that day, so they all were ruined. He came out and said "Oh no. Here, let me help". He picked up all my papers and even carried some of my books (such a stereotypical move). He walked me to my class and put my books on my desk. We both are near-sided and we have the exact same type of glasses. So one day he took mine and gave me his for the day. At the end of the day he said "take your glasses back. They're only cute on you". And when i text him i'll say something like "gah! oops i'm stupid" in a joking way, and he'll say "no. you're not."
As you can tell, their two different people. I just don't know who i like anymore. Which one does it seem like I like? Does it sound like either one of them like me? It'd be helpful if you guys gave me answers before Monday, when we go back to school. That way i can get it off of my mind a bit. One more thing. What did the hug the first guy mention mean exactly?

Answer
I think you probably have a crush on both of them and they both like you. That is all entirely possible. There are a few signs you can look for to figure out if he likes you. If he pays attention to you, likes to be around you, is polite and respectful, seems to watch you when he thinks you are not looking, listens to what you have to say and is interested in it, tries to find reasons to talk to you and to be around you even when he doesn't need to be around you, does not expect anything from you in terms of favors, makes frequent eye contact with you, his face lights up when he sees you, puts you first all the time even ahead of himself, then most likely he likes you as more than a friend. And watch how he treats other girls. If he treats you differently and sort of in s more special way, that is a good sign.

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Backpack/ camping/fishing?

Q. I used to go on a camping/backpacking/fishing trip when i was in Michigan and now i am in PA, and i was wondering if there was anything like that out here. it would preferably be an area with a no motor lake with somewhat good fishing, and camping. not just camping but roughin' it. no electric, toilets, water,etc.

Answer
Dispersed camping in the national forest wilderness areas best describe what your looking for. Here is a link with many trails listed in your area,
http://www.localhikes.com/

Any secluded camping spots in PA?

Faye

Hey I live near Philadelphia in the suburbs and want to go camping. I want to park and tent.
Most places around me or that I know of all the camping spots are right next to each other. I want a place that I can camp and not be near people. Anyone know any within a 4 hour radius?
Thanks
I meant 3 hours. But I would like places closest to me if possible.

Answer
There are plenty of secluded spots in PA, but most of them are on backpacking trails. If you want to be able to just camp and park (legally), that will almost definitely be at a campground of one form or another...which will mean there will be others there. If you are willing to hike a couple miles there are plenty of spots available that are secluded and interesting.

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what is a good backpack for hiking/camping?

Mike

need one for:
hiking, camping, canoe camping, for a maximum of 3 days, mostly 1-2 days, though.

i don't do any of that camping where you drive your car to the camp site, so i would need a backpack that can haul all my gear.

i live in Florida and don't go out of state much.

prefer something with a hydration bladder and no more than $150, prefer $50-$100.

i know High Sierra and The North Face are good but what else and what models would be best for me?

Answer
If you're using your backpack just for backpacking for 3 days, or mostly weekends, I wouldn't buy anything with more than 50 or 60L. The model number of the backpack (ie. North Face Terra 60) is close to the number of Litres it contains.

If you buy bigger (70L, 80L), you can use it for expeditions, or for international travel with lots of souvenirs lol

If you buy it too small,you'll end up strapping your tent and sleeping bag on the outside... this is NOT preferable as they can get wet if it rains, or they can get caught on trees, shrubs, rocks, or the envrionment you're travelling by. Personally I like a backpack that has a zipper compartment for the sleeping bag in the bottom, and has zippers on the side for easy side access (so you don't have to unpack your whole bag to get at things, or stuff something in).

I'd definately go to a store and try one on, and make sure to put 30 or 40lbs in it... at the end of the day, what makes a good pack is how it fits you when you throw your weight around wearing a weighted pack. An empty pack is quite different than a full one with how it feels. This is the most important thing to remember. Also packs vary in size by a litre or two bit depending on whether you buy a large, medium or small frame. Each brand and pack is different, so make sure you try them on, as a medium frame for one pack is often a large frame for another. For backpacking you want the weight to be transfered to your hips, so it shouldn't all be resting on your shoulders... this is why choosing the correct frame size for the model of pack you choose is important.

I've had lots of packs over the past few years. Right now I'm using a Black Diamond 50L pack, and I love it, but it's more designed for Mountaineering.

Arc'teryx makes some super cool dry backpacks, that are designed for being completely waterproof... they're very expensive, but pretty interesting if you're canoeing or sea kayaking.

Some of the brands I've had... all of which are good in their own way were:
Black Diamond
North Face
Serratus
Osprey
Arc'teryx
and a Mountain Equipment Co-op bag (the best one, but it's Canadian)

The key point here to remember is the fit, not the brand name, is what makes a good pack vs. one that you regret buying and hurts your back.

Does anyone hike/backpack/camp with their kids?

riversmom3

I have a 1 year old and I think by next fall she'll either be too big or too wiggly to be carried in the backpack carrier (Kelty Kids). Does anyone take thier toddlers hiking? Camping? Any suggestions? We go in the mountains of PA.

Answer
I took my son on his first hike at six months old, in a Snugli carrier, with a daypack on my back. A month later we went on our only backpacking trip using the same carrier. By the time he was 9 months old we'd switched to a Kelty Meadow KIDS carrier, which we used for two years for day hiking, but as my wife is too weak to carry the kid, we never were able to figure out how to go backpacking, unless I carried over 50 lbs, including the kid, which is too much for the Kelty Meadow.

We used the Kelty until he was 2 years & 5 months old when we tried to experiment to see how far he could walk, which was about 33% of the time, with 66% of the time riding on my shoulders, which wasn't very comfortable. So we purchased a Sherpani Rhumba UL carrier for our vacation to Hawaii, at age 2 1/2, weight 30 lbs, and he rode in that about 66% of the time on several day hikes. (I don't recommend that carrier because the stitching came out and we had to return it, but we did get a full refund.)

At around 2 years, 10 months he hiked about 75% of the way on a seven mile hike around Muir Woods NM, the rest on my shoulders. I don't plan to put him in a carrier any more, but if we hadn't had it in Hawaii our hikes would've been impossible.

We never had a problem with wiggliness. You are kind of torturing them if you keep them in there a long time, so we never did extremely long hikes, and always stopped and let him rest and play as much as possible, moving no more than 1 MPH over a whole day, their experience of the woods just as important as mine. He'd usually fall asleep in the carrier in the afternoon for an hour or two. We never felt the need to bring toys along to keep him quiet.

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Can I bring a child backpack carrier on an airplane?

Mamaof2

We are going on a flight to Hawaii aboard Delta and I want to use a backpack child carrier (Chico brand) through the airport as opposed to an umbrella stroller. Will Delta let me carry it on? Its a little bulky when fully extended, but the legs fold inward. Its about the size of a small suitcase when compacted.

Answer
See whats they said

Strollers & Child Restraint Seats
Strollers will be checked for free and are not counted as part of the standard baggage allowance.

Strollers may be checked at curbside, the ticket counter, or at the gate.

If you want to use a child restraint seat or stroller to transport your child through the airport, that's fine.

Strollers need to be checked at the gate by a Delta agent. Child restraint seats may be checked, or in certain cases, they may be brought on board:

What if there is an open seat on your row?
If there's an open passenger seat in your row, you may place your child in an FAA-approved child restraint in that seat during take-off and landing

However, Delta can't guarantee that a seat will remain open. If you want to be sure a seat will be available, you'll have to purchase a ticket. If an empty passenger seat is not available for your child restraint, the child restraint will have to be checked at the gate by a Delta agent.

Do backpacks affect children's back or spine?

Mark

I'm wondering if someone wears a backpack, will it affect their back or their growth? I am conducting a small experiment to see if people with rolling backpacks are taller than people with regular backpacks.

What I know about spines and backs is that they are made up of about 30 little squishy pads. If a backpack is worn properly, can it not damage your back? How does it affect your back? Also, is there a way to develop a new type of backpack that can protect your back better?

Thanks in advance for answers!

Answer
Well I don't know about developing a new type of back pack but I do know that studies done in all most every country have shown that children in this age are carrying far to much weight on their backs just due to back packs.

When I think about what I used to carry to school and now what my child carries to school I all ways take the load off of her back.

Which is ridiculous if you think about it.

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Does anyone know a cute backpack for a girl going into sixth grade?

I will need to carrry books so I would rather not have a sling backpack or messenger bag. I don't want it to be white cause it will get dirty.

Links will help!

Thx in advance!

Answer
I have scoured ebay for things you might define as "cute".

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/BILLABONG-BACKPACK-WET-N-DRY-SCHOOL-BAG-NEW_W0QQitemZ160268065421QQihZ006QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PIGLET-PLUSH-PINK-BACKPACK-WINNIE-POOH-BAG-BOOKBAG_W0QQitemZ370073207425QQihZ024QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/HELLO-KITTY-RUCKSACK-SCHOOL-BAG-BACKPACK-NEW_W0QQitemZ160267459081QQihZ006QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Hello-Kitty-Handle-Carry-Hand-Bag-Tote-Handbag-PINK_W0QQitemZ130242696551QQihZ003QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/HELLO-KITTY-SCHOOL-LUNCH-HANDBAG-TOTE-BAG-UK-seller_W0QQitemZ150275859104QQihZ005QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PERSONALISED-GIRLS-JUTE-BAG-ECOFRIENDLY-PARTY-GIFT_W0QQitemZ190240721025QQihZ009QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Blue-Snoopy-Canvas-handbag-gift-shopping-bag-U14_W0QQitemZ150279409633QQihZ005QQcategoryZ131452QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


Good luck getting that bag! :-)

websites to design a backpack?

First Name

i want to add my own pictures and stuff. like pictures from my computer! and put them on a backpack! if you can gimme a like but whatever lol


a backpack for school btw

Answer
http://www.customink.com/custom/personalized-backpacks

http://www.mylocker.net/custom-backpacks.cfm

http://www.pricegrabber.com/indoors/backpacks++personal-creations-personalized-create-your-own-backpack-girls-back-to-school-gift/m-1029351900/

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What kind of bookbag should I get for highschool?

?

This year I am going to be a freshman. I am scared just like any other kid in my grade. My brother, who has graduated, said that no one carries L.L Bean Bookbags in highschool, and that they were lame and everyone carried North Face Bookbags. I went and looked at The North Face's bookbags and I looked at the on titled "Women's Borealis Backpack". It seems very small compared to L.L Bean's. Which bookbag did you carry for highscool?

Answer
My freshman year I had an under armor bag, then sophomore year I bought a north face jester backpack and I used it for junior year as well and then I used a north face borealis for senior year and freshman year of college. But honestly no one cares

Where is all the cool dad gear?!?

Action Jac

Here is the dealio. Im a 22 year old guy about to have a baby girl and i wanted to get a diaper bad and one of those kangaroo thingys that you put the baby that sits on your chest, but all the stuff i see if for the moms. Can anyone help me out to find some cool looking stuff? =D

Answer
When my wife and I were picking out new baby gear, she actually found a really nice Under Armour backpack that we use as our diaper bag. It works really well:

- has plenty of pockets for diapers, wipes and everything
- we use the mp3 pocket for pacifiers so they're easy to find
- has two side pockets for water bottles that we use for baby bottles
- i don't feel like a total fool carry it around

Here's a link to what it looks like:
http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1993258&CAWELAID=110518413

As for a baby carrier, I use this:
http://www.evenflo.com/product.aspx?id=188&pfid=167

I really like it because it's easily adjustable and fairly comfortable to wear. It isn't some bright obnoxious color and it supports a baby facing frontwards or backwards.

Plus, most people will be focusing on your kid and not you, so you have that going for you.

Follow me I learn how to be a dad to a baby girl -
http://www.fromfronttoback.com

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Where can I find some great backpacks?

Tiffany

I want a website full of backpacks for an 11 year old and you could wear on your back (none with wheels) and is big. I want websites with them. Some cool girl ones. Thanks! And I don't want them too plain. Like I don't want plain pink ones. I want school ones. Ones I could fit books in good.

Answer
tillys

look at these, i picked some out for you.

http://www.tillys.com/tillys/variants.aspx?prod=130859177&ctlg=020_Girls&ctg=120_Girls_Acc_010_Backpacks&parentctg=120_Girls_Acc&rank=0&size=-1&source=1

http://www.tillys.com/tillys/variants.aspx?prod=136089429&ctlg=020_Girls&ctg=120_Girls_Acc_010_Backpacks&parentctg=120_Girls_Acc&rank=6&size=-1&source=1

http://www.tillys.com/tillys/variants.aspx?prod=136175493&ctlg=020_Girls&ctg=120_Girls_Acc_010_Backpacks&parentctg=120_Girls_Acc&rank=8&size=-1&source=1

Where can I buy wheeled backpacks for girls?

Michelle

I'm looking for girl wheeled backpacks. I like the ones that are colorful and have colors like pink, green, yellow, white, those colors. I went to Target and Big 5 and there were none of them. There were only hiking ones and ugly boy ones. I need one for school! My family went looking EVERYWHERE yesterday. HELP!
I don't want to buy online.

Answer
try online ebags.com

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Who has been to Glacier National Park?

madhawk78

I am thinking of doing a hiking/camping/backpacking trip to Glacier NP this summer. Anyone out there have any advice, tips on such a trip? Is it worth the trip or are their better places to go. I was in Yosemite and Rocky Mountain NP last year, so any comparisons would be nice as well.

Answer
I have not actually been there yet myself, but am doing a week-long backpacking trip there this summer and did a lot of research in preparation.

By many accounts, Glacier NP is one of the best hiking and backpacking spots in the country. In fact, it routinely ranks at or near the top of Backpacker Magazine's annual survey. That is one of the reasons that my friends and I decided to make it this year's big backpacking trip.

I would highly recommend that you get the National Geographic Trails Illustrated map of the park which shows all the trails, camp spots and roads. I also got a couple of trail guides entitled "Hiking Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks" by Erik Molvar and "Glacier-Waterton International Peace Park" by Vicky Spring. Both are quite good, but if I were to get just one I would lean a little more toward Molvar's as a little more practical and easier to use. For general sightingseeing guides to the park and area, I got the travel guides by both Moon Publications (Becky Lomax) and the Insider's Guide (by Susan Olin). The Moon guide was quite helpful and detailed, while the Insider's guide was little more than a local business directory.

A couple of things about hiking and backpacking there...

It can be challenging to find good loop backpacking trips. Most will end up being out and backs or point to point requiring some sort of shuttle. The one exception is the famous 'Northern Circle' loop in the center of the park (starting near Swiftwater).

You must have permits to camp overnight in the backcountry. Although they always reserve some walk-up permits, most spaces can be reserved in advance by faxing a request. Note that the reservation period started on April 15 and so it may now be difficult to get popular spots between June and August. We sent in ours before the deadline and are waiting to hear if we got our intinerary.

Glacier is famous for bear country - both black and the grizzly. While attacks are comparatively rare, the park website has a video on what to do about bears and there are very tight restrictions in the backcountry around storing food and eating in a special designated 'eating spot' away from the tent spots.

Aside from hiking and camping, a few of the other things that Glacier is famous for...

Historic Lodges - In or around the park are some of the most historic and famous lodges in the US park system. The lodges at McDonald Lake, East Glacier and Waterton Park (Canada) are particulary grand and well known.

Going to the Sun Road - The famous road that bi-sects the park and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the country.

Lake Tours - Many of the larger lakes have historic tour boats that take you out on scenic cruises.

Whatever your choice, have fun!

If you were camping with your family, saw a bear around your child's tent, and had a gun, would you shoot it?

danny_boy_

I purposely did not express any opinion in this question. Please don't make assumptions about how I feel about the topic.

I am merely attempting to get your opinion with regard to the question . . .not me. I am specifically interested in people's reactions to a bear; not a mountain lion, squirrel, snake, or badger, OK?

Answer
Just because the bear is sniffing around is not reason enough to justify shooting it. If it was actively trying to get inside the tent then maybe, after firing a warning shot while shouting and running up to the bear, to see if it might run off, which it most likely would, and then and only then if it continues to invade the tent or charges you should you shoot, and only if it's a grizzly bear, because a black bear almost never finishes a charge, it's always a bluff.

I also suggest this wouldn't happen unless your kid had food or other smelly items inside his tent and you should be more conscientious about teaching him how to properly store food, hanging, boxes, or canisters.

And yes, I do have a kid and I take him backpacking and hiking all the time in bear country (High Sierra) and we've never had an encounter such as you envision with a bear. Why don't you ask if I'd shoot a mountain lion or kill a rattlesnake near my kid, yes to both. Black bears are mostly harmless by comparison. Are you going to shoot a bison nosing around your kids tent in Yellowstone?

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When was your baby strong enough to be carried in a hiking backpack carrier?

Mary

My baby is six and a half months old, and can sit for about a minute or two unassisted before she tips! Should she be sitting really securely before she goes into one?

Can you recommend a good one?
I've got a baby bjorn active which I love, it's just my baby is in a phase where she wants to be held all day. She doesn't like not being able to see, so she breaks her neck in the bjorn if she's facing me. If she's facing out, she grabs everything! I'm wondering if a back pack carrier is a solution.

Answer
I had my sons in backpacks at that age. I would put little blankets on each side to keep them straight until they were strong enough to do it themselves.

I can not recommend a carrier only because I use mine for little things (ball games, grocery store) I do not know about backpacks for hiking...but I do know they have some really great ones out there!

P.S. Carriers in the front are great, but if you have a fat baby they do hurt your back after a while in front carriers. So, I always had to move my children to the backpacks.

Have fun!!

Toddler backpack / carrier suggestions?

ecoandy

Please suggest the brand and model and provide support for your suggestion. We are in search of a carrier with "stadium seating" or seating that doesn't require your child to keep their legs spread but rather could sit with knees together. Our child is 15 months old. Thank you!

Answer
I don't have the brand and model but you should look out for certain features when you choose the backpack. Refer the following site:

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Do I count as a scene kid?

Q. Ok so I wear anime, gir, hello kitty, Pokemon, band, and super hero tshirt. I also wear skinny jeans and a lot of bracelets and I wear eye liner and listen to heavy music. I have red velvet hair. Would you count me as scene?

Answer
I'm not big on labels/fashion and music trends etc, but that sounds like "scene" to me. It is similar to what I see in town, which is red skinny jeans, Vans, black skull tees, Hello Kitty backpacks, lots of rubber bracelets, big possibly coloured hair with bows in, eyeliner. I say, be you. If that is what you like, then awesome. I like HK, band tees, and heavy music too, but I dislike labels and I'm absolutely nothing like the requirements for scene, emo, etc. I'm nothing, just myself. I think it's OK to be a part of a group of people who like the same things and I have nothing against that, but I am against people trying to lump other people into a group. Like the people above saying 'poser'... just be you. If you want to be part of the scene group, then yes go for it! But if not, then you're not. It's up to YOU.

can you help me to find a backpack please. hey!?

Q. not like some lame camping backpack nor a backpack with a large logo or brand name on it. just something simple yet cool.

Answer
A lot of people wear Jansports but they get soaked easily. One time in P.E more than half the kids in my class went to get their backpacks after the bell ran (it was a light drizzle) and they found the inside and outside of their backpacks wet or really moist (I didnt have one though just saw my friends). Personally I absolutely LOVE dakine backpacks! >< The backpacks from Vans are amazing and I loved them. I have one from Vans and yeah... x) A bit expensive but they are really nice.
A Dakine one looks like this:
http://www.kink.se/wp-content/2007/10/dakine_helipro_07.jpg
Theres some that have better deigns though so go to a Vans store :D

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internal or external backpack?

Adam R

I am moving to Hawaii next month. I'll be temporarily living on the beach tenting it and doing a lot of hiking. I am relatively new to hiking and not sure if an external or internal frame backpack will better suit me. Don't most people say an external is better for beginners?

Answer
It's more about function and need. Externals tend to give a lot more options in load carrying capacity but when hiking through heavy cover there bulky and have high centers of gravity. I use an external frame when carrying heavy gear into an area that does not allow other methods Like when doing trail work and carrying chain saws or hauling out an elk that I hunted.

Internal frames would more likely suit your need for traveling around the islands and and terrain you come across there. There better fit and center of gravity is better for the type of terrain you be discovering there. Get one with enough space to hold all your gear as an external 3000ci is technically bigger then a 3000ci internal so triple the holding size. Here is a link with a lot of comparisons and reviews of the top selling packs,

http://www.rei.com/category/4500001_Backpacks

Best Hiking Backpack?

Christian

I will be going on a 50 mile hike over the course of 5 days in about a month and I am looking for a good backpack. I really don't have a lot of money to blow on this so I am looking for a real bargain. I am thinking of the Jansport Klamath 75 which I could get for about $120, the High Sierra Explorer 55 which I could get for about $70, and the Jansport Big Bear 82 Internal Backpack - 2010 Model which I could get for about $68. I am currently leaning towards one of the cheaper two but since I have really looked at the third I threw it in as well. I am looking for some good evidence as to why one might be better and preferably personal experience as well. If you have other recommendations in this price range, that would be great as well. Although I would love to spend $300+ on a pack I really can't justify much more than 100 right now. Any help would be great. Thanks!

Answer
i looked at reviews of the three packs you listed.

the explorer is too heavy. 5 pounds plus.

jansport has been making packs for years. i used to have an old frame pack of theirs back in the late 70's. can't say that high sierra is a name i have seen in the higher end packs.

i know the klamath costs the most but it is the best of the three. its only 3 lb. 14 oz. and it's a real good size. it has a separate sleeping bag compartment, more pockets and you can use it on overnighters and week long trips. besides i like 4600 cu in packs. it kind of gives you a limit on how much stuff you can take. to me it's a clean looking pack.

the big bear just a bit heavier and it only has one compartment, but if money is really an issue then this would be number 2.

pick a jansport and you will carry that pack for years.

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Do you use a backpack in college?

Laugh

I'm starting college this fall and I was wondering if other college kids use backpacks or not? Can you bring them into the classrooms with you? I am just going to a local college but still I am just thinking that a backpack would be a good idea that way all of my suff is together, but im not sure.

Answer
Backpacks are very common at our school. Make sure it is the kind that has a padded slot for your laptop.
There is nothing wrong at all with getting the kind with wheels on the bottom and an extendable handle. Some of those textbooks are heavy.

Why is it weird for high school kids to have wheeled backpacks?

u

um..most of our books are really, really heavy... i think we need it more than little kids do... so why is it weird for us to have it? http://www.google.tt/images?hl=en&q=wheeled%20backpacks%20for%20women&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&biw=767&bih=366 would u use them or not ?

Answer
Most of the students around here have Kindles

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What is your favorite backpack to use with a toddler and hiking?

kimboburly

Greetings!

I have a 35lb toddler who can walk, but would need some carrying from time to time on long hikes. With this in mind, and knowing that I would also need to carry some supplies (water, cloth diaper, snacks), what is the best backpack you can suggest?

Oh, low price would be a plus! :)

Thanks! :)

Answer
Kelty Kid Carriers are among the more popular, but I have to tell you - it's designed for tall people, or people with extra long torsos. (Like dads!) Though not as well-known, I highly recommend the Deuter backpacks - they are MUCH more adjustable, so mom AND dad can wear it comfortably. Many outdoor stores will let you rent before you buy, to make sure you like it. (You can do that with any brand.) You're not going to find a good backpack for a low price, so you'll want to check eBay or Craig's List and get one used. (Although, the resale value on kid packs is very high - the bad news is that it'll be hard to find a good deal - the good news is that you'll be able to get a lot of your money back when you resell yours!!)

Suggestions for a baby/toddler backpack?

Silly Momm

My husband and I are planning on doing some camping/backpacking once the weather warms up (it's still snowing where we live and we're beginning to wonder what Spring is) and we are in need of a baby/toddler backpack. My son is 10 months old and weighs in at a nice, healthy 35 pounds so an INFANT carrier is out of the question. He is much to heavy for those. I am referring to the ones with a large frame that carry ~50 pounds or more. I have no idea what names are good and reliable and research I've done hasn't turned up very good answers. Anyone with a suggestion, please let me hear it! Thanks!

Answer
We have a Kelty Kids backpack. It is wonderful. It is quite comfortable to wear, easy to put on and my son loves being in it (he's 14 months and around 25-30lbs). We camp and it is a lifesaver --- we bought it to use in place of our Ergo carrier on long hikes/camping.

It is like this one:
http://www.kelty.com/p-283-fc-10.aspx


We managed to find a gently used one on craiglist for about half of the new price.

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Homework and studying in 8th grade?

Cynthesis

I usually have about two hours of homework on average. I'm in the highest classes, so I'm taking a freshman level math class (Algebra 1). All the teachers, not just my math teacher, emphasize how much we should study. Can you help me create a daily schedule for school work and studying? Including weekends? I also wanna review Spanish.
BQ: How can I bring home my books without breaking my back? I have thick books for all five subjects.

Answer
WOW, that's a lot of homework.

Well, first off, you should study about an hour a day. You don't want to get yourself too tired. Or even a half hour on weekdays and an hour on the weekends. Or, since you have 2 subjects, 30 minutes each. And an hour each on weekends.

Your back... uh, well, try carrying some with your hands, and get a more supportive backpack with padding and strong straps. Also, get a backpacks with wheels if you can.

Hope this helps!

What is the warranty on an ll bean bookbag?

Maddie

Its the regular size without wheels(its about $50) and i think its like the 10 and up age group its black and has my name on it we just ordered it today i want to know like what the warranty is on it

Answer
This Product is...Durable, Great Value, performing above expectations"Just ordered our 3rd bean backpack. I told my daughters when we originally bought an llbean bag, they would have to carry it until the 3 year warranty was up. Now we just finished the 3 years and my youngest reminded me that its time to order a new backpack! Of course, I lived up to my word and ordered one - but now I wish I could eat my words. The original backpack is still in fabulous condition and a new one is NOT needed! We will definitely wash and store the old one for future travels...also, reading the reviews it looks like llbean must stand behind the bags for much longer than 3 years. Thanks LLBean - it feels terrific to buy with confidence!!"

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I want to know the needs and rules to camping...first timer?

*StaY g0ld

Well my friends and i are first time campers and we really just wanna know the basic of it, we were planning to get all of the supplies and stufff like tents and find a camp grounds somewhere in Texas. What all do i need to get from Academy.
What should we be most worried about
Does it cost to stay on the camp grounds
How much would a cabin cost us (considering)
Do any of you know of any nice places in Texas
help me out people

Answer
Since you are tent camping I will focus on that. I will also assume that you are going by car and not backpacking.

First you need a tent, unless you are planning on braving the artic tundra get it at K-Mart. They usually have a huge selection. Be careful setting it up, tents are fragile when they are in pieces, but sturdy once set up. Get a tarp that is at least as big as the footprint of the tent to place on the ground under the tent and one which is large enough to cove the tent entirely in case of extreme weather. If you surf travelocity and look at user photos of campsites, you will see examples of how people cover their sites in case of rain.

Next you need something to sleep on. There are three options, pads, air mattresses and cots. My suggestion is to avoid air mattresses unless you will have electricity on your site (I will cover that soon). I personally would opt for a cot, they are far more comfortable and don't run out of air in the middle of the night.

Sleeping bags are for backpacking, use sheets and blankets just like at home. Bring your pillows also.

We always bring fans, if you don't have electricity they sell batery operated ones at K-Mart.

Most of the rest is common sense. Bring the same cooking stuff that you would use for a backyard cook-out or trip to the beach. If you are going to a vacation area their are usually Wal-marts or such to pick up things that you either forgot or saw at other campsites which you sill need.

We always opt for sites with electricity and water. It makes morning coffee so much easier and if we use air mattresses it is easy to refill them when they sag at night.

Again, don't outfit yourself like a survivolist unless you are really roughing it in the wilderness. If you are going to a regular campground you can save a lot of money by shopping at big box stores.

Bring extra tent pegs and lots of rope. 500 feet of clotheline will do. And bring earplugs...they help filter out the noises of the critters that wake up rookies.

camping food that tastes good?

outdoors e

what are good foods that can be carried on a canoe trip that will take up to a week

Answer
I've seen a number of good recipes and food ideas at www.backpacker.com.. They have a section labeled "Skills". Click on that and you will find another tab labeled "Food and Nutrition". In this section, they have recipes, discussion boards, articles, and even videos on how to make this stuff while you're out on the trail. Everything is done from a backpacking point of view and considers that you don't have the luxury of a huge pantry or refrigerated food storage. You'll find stuff you never thought about such as new recipes for Ramen noodles, and my personal favorite, Peanut Butter Oat Bars. I plan on making a chocolate covered version as a Christmas treat.

You can also get prepared camping food that's shelf stable, compact, easy to prepare, and nutritious at most sporting goods stores (Academy, Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas, and online.), but I've not yet found one that I would eat regularly. (Let it be known that I am pretty picky.) They're edible and taste somewhat like what they say they are suppose to, but that's about it. Though it will keep you alive. I've also seen some folks that swear by military surplus MRE style foods. The same applies to these, though they can cause some tummy trouble if you're not accustomed to them or if you're prone to that type of thing.

If you still want to try the pre-packaged items, please do. I'm sure your own tastes are different than mine. I would advise picking up a couple of them and trying them before you go out, just to eliminate the "surprise" factor and the same goes for any recipes or ideas from www.backpacker.com

But, those oat bars are AWESOME!

Have fun!

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Backpack for a high school girl?

Erika

What kind of backpacks do high school girls use?
How big would you recommend?
Tote? Or like Backpack, and like which colors are in???
I think i am also going to be carrying my purse, and might want to put my purse in my backpack occasionally?

Answer
Hey girl!

Backpacks can be .... confusing, to say the least. You want one that's durable, but also stylish. Easy to carry, yet not too small. Big, yet not overpowering.

Many girls have resorted into carrying large purses or tote bags with them instead of backpacks. This works well for many but hardly works for some. Many who carry purses put important things in the purse and carry the rest which can be very convenient!

... which can be perfect for you purse!

Although purses / totes are in, for a more urban / functional look, carry around a shoulder backpack.

Like this one: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=22891972&parentid=W_ACC_BAGS

This type of bag holds more than a purse but not that much more! This bag is for a more medium to medium heavy load

Typical looking backpacks, like JanSport bags, aren't "in style" at the moment, although they are very durable. Although, exceptions can be made.

Like this bag: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=23993264&parentid=W_ACC_BAGS

It's functional and durable, yet stylish!

This one is for the really really heavy loads, so maybe a freshman year or junior year of high school bag!

If you want to know about what colors are in style, "colors" isn't necessarily the right word for some bags. "Patterns" is.

Backpacks with floral or tribal prints are very much in style for backpacks / urban shoulder bags

If you want to be daring and try to find a solid color, make sure it's light or pastel-esque. Solid colors are also acceptable with purses.

Purses and patterns don't necessarily mix. Maybe tote bag and patterns, but not purses and patterns.

All in all, it really does depend of how much work your getting.

Remember that a bag is supposed to last all year, so don't sell yourself short! Make sure you find the right bag for your work load and your style!

I really like the backpacks at UrbanOutfitters, although they can be expensive. But they are durable.

Forever 21 has good, cheap purses as well as UrbanOutfitters!

Good Luck!

Any cute bookbags, backpacks, totes for a freshman girl?

Musicgirl

Ok so im going into the 9th grade and im about to start school shopping. Do you know where i can find a cute backpack or tote for school. I really like aeropostales cute buckle backpacks. Also which do you prefer to carry: backpack or tote?

Answer
I haven't carried a backpack since 5th grade but some stores have super cute backpacks! Many people in high school, no matter their grade, still use backpacks. I personally prefer totes but that's just me. I wear a lot of fashionable clothes so I feel like backpacks will kill my outfit. So here's the rule of thumb I go by..

If you are a tomboy and you wear jeans, tshirts, plaid shirts, and sweatshirts- then buy a backpack.
If you are a girly girl and wear dresses, jeans, flowery/girly shirts, cardigans- then buy a tote!

Victoria's Secret, Roxy, and Coach have some really cute, stylish backpacks! If you're a fashionista, definitely go for a VS Pink or Coach backpack :)
http://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/backpacks/backpack-victorias-secret-pink?ProductID=67484&CatalogueType=OLS ( I love the black, navy crest, and bling black the best. however, i feel like bling black would sometimes look bad with your outfit. get something neutral like black or navy crest)

I love Coach backpacks but they are super expensive- $258. If you have a Coach outlet near you, you might be able to get the Coach backpack for about $80-100! Those outlets are supeeeer cheap.
http://www.coach.com/online/handbags/-handbags_silhouettes_backpacks-10551-10051-5000000000000155671-en?t1Id=62&t2Id=5000000000000155671&tier=2&LOC=LN#110402

Roxy backpacks are also cute and reasonable priced.
http://www.roxy.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13011676&cp=2884997.3176247

You can get a cute tote/messenger bag big enough to fit books just about anywhere- Forever21, Target, Payless, or if you want designer, Michael Kors.
http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_handbags_shoulder&ProductID=1012093754&VariantID=
http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?catId=cat10375&subCatId=cat10348&skuId=097714005&productId=71801&lotId=097714&category=&catdisplayName=Accessories (i bought this one for school, it's so big and i loveeee it!)

I hope I helped!

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what a good camping/outdoor knife and WHY?

Robert

Answer
Everybody has their own opinion on what makes a good camping and outdoor knife.

Some think that you need a multi-tool to fix gear. Frankly, I usually have one with me when I'm adventure camping, (specifically, a Leatherman Surge), to help with vehicle and gear repairs, but I don't carry one when camping or backpacking. But otherwise I find they are too bulky and heavy on my belt to carry when hiking and backpacking. I could keep a multi-tool in my pack, but then what good would it do me if I am separated from my pack when I need it? And, in the woods, most of the tools (and therefore, weight) on a multi-tool provide no benefit, unless you are driving a Jeep, quad or other off-road vehicle, (and even then, I'd prefer real hand tools to a multi-tool).

Others believe a good camping/outdoor knife should be a medium fixed-blade knife capable of chopping and batoning wood for shelter and fire in an emergency. Something like a Short Ka-Bar, Ontario RAT-5 or Gerber LMF-II fixed-blade knife. My problem with this is the same as a multi-tool: it is not comfortable to keep on my belt, and so it's effectiveness as a survival tool is lost if I'm separated from my pack.

Most hikers and backpackers go with something that's easily carried in their pocket but can provide some basic necessities beyond a good knife blade. A Swiss Army Knife fills this bill nicely, as does some of the smaller Leatherman multi-tools. Things like a toothpick and tweezers see a lot more use than files and screwdrivers on the trails.

Ultimately you need to decide what your philosophy will be on knife carry. I developed mine through 35 years of backpacking, hiking, camping, off-roading and daily carry. Throughout this process I've collected about 30 different knives and multi-tools. The one I carry every day, to the office and to the woods, is a Victorinox Swiss Army Compact.

What to Bring When Camping?

Kenney

What are some basic things/tools one would need for camping?

Answer
As for tools a great deal depends on what style of camping your going to be doing if in an RV then a small tool chest with everything you would need to make repairs "on the road". Same would apply to those heading out to a primitive cabin as well. if your staying in a tent style and car camping you don't need a lot of tools and just a few items will suffice I always bring a ground equalizer (a large tent stake hammer) a hatchet and my leatherman multi tool. If your backpacking reduce that again and just your multi tool will suffice. As for other items the lists are long here is one, adapt it to your needs but never go with out the ten essentials.

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/family+camping+checklist.html

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