Deuter Guide Lite 32 in the Canadian Rockies

I thought I’d share a little bit about the gear that I use for my hikes. First off I’m going to mention my rucksack, which I think is one of the key pieces of equipment you need to get right to really enjoy your hike. I use a Deuter Guide Lite 32 rucksack. There’s a newer model of the Guide Lite 32 now, but I don’t think I’ll change this one for a while.

Deuter Guide Lite 32

It’s easily adjustable so you can adapt it to suit your back, it fits flat to your back but doesn’t get too hot due to the strategic placement of  the padding. There’s one large main compartment with and elasticated internal pocket which I usually keep my maps and sun hat in when I’m not using them. The top part of the pack has two zipper pockets, one internal and one external. The outside zipper pocket is ideal for keeping a head torch and first aid kit, whilst the internal zipper pocket is good for valuables.

Deuter External Side Pocket

Other than the small pocket at the top of the pack, there aren’t any other external pockets. I’m not that greater fan of hydration systems and prefer to carry Nalgene water bottles inside the pack but I don’t find this a problem. I’ve bought external pockets from Deuter which strap onto the sides of the pack and they add another 10 litres, which is a good option to gain extra space and then remove it when you don’t need it.

Skis and poles can easily be carried on either side of the pack on the built-in straps. Ice axes can be attached onto the pack with the webbing loops at the base of the pack – on the newer versions ice axes are held a little more securely with clips to keep the axe heads in place.

I really like the little features that the pack has. There’s a set of SOS instructions inside the pack, a whistle on the chest strap, a lanyard for keys, and a foam seat in the main compartment.

Overall the Deuter Guide Lite 32 is a great hiking pack, it can readily fit all you need for day hiking as well as shorter overnight trips. I’ve had this one for three years and it’s not wearing out despite being used regularly. The only reason I would buy another hiking pack would be to buy a larger backpacking bag, though going by my experience with this one it would probably be another Deuter pack.

© RockiesOutdoors 2014