For a time, the aisles of Sports Authority were a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts looking for quality gear without a premium price tag. Among their most popular offerings was their line of extra-large camping backpacks. These bags, often marketed under a house brand, were a common sight on trails and at campsites, providing an accessible entry point for those embarking on their first multi-day treks.
The allure of the Sports Authority extra-large camping backpack lay in its ability to offer a “do-it-all” solution. It provided the high-capacity storage and essential features needed for a serious overnight or weekend trip, making it a favorite for Boy Scout troops, family campers, and new backpackers on a budget.
Key Features That Defined the Sports Authority Backpack
While these packs may no longer be available new, their design and functionality set a standard for what a great entry-level camping backpack should offer. They typically included:
- Generous Capacity: With volumes often exceeding 50 liters, these backpacks had enough room to comfortably fit a sleeping bag, tent, cooking gear, and several days’ worth of clothing and food.
- Internal Frame: To handle the heavy load, these packs almost always featured a lightweight internal frame. This provided critical structure, helping to transfer the weight from your shoulders to your hips and making a heavy pack feel more manageable.
- Multiple Pockets and Lash Points: Organization is key on the trail. These bags had well-placed pockets on the lid, hip belt, and sides for quick access to snacks, maps, and small essentials. They also had a series of loops and straps on the exterior, perfect for lashing on a sleeping pad or trekking poles.
- Padded and Adjustable Suspension System: A comfortable fit is crucial for a large pack. The Sports Authority models had padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a back panel. While not as refined as high-end packs, the adjustable torso length system allowed hikers to dial in a custom fit.
The Legacy and Modern-Day Alternatives
The closing of Sports Authority in 2016 meant the end of an era. The company’s house-brand gear, while perhaps lacking the high-tech materials and intricate designs of top-tier brands, played a vital role in democratizing outdoor recreation. They proved that a reliable, functional backpack was within reach for anyone, regardless of their budget.
Today, consumers can find excellent alternatives that build upon the legacy of the Sports Authority extra-large camping backpack. For those seeking similar value, many outdoor retailers, such as REI, have their own house brands that offer comparable features at a competitive price. Brands like Kelty and Deuter are also known for producing high-quality, durable packs that are an excellent value.
For those looking to invest in a pack with more advanced features, brands like Osprey and Gregory are the industry leaders, celebrated for their innovative suspension systems, high-tech materials, and meticulous design.
In the end, the Sports Authority extra-large camping backpack was a testament to the idea that a good adventure doesn’t require a fortune in gear. It was a reliable companion that carried the hopes, and all the essentials, of countless campers and backpackers who were just beginning their journey into the great outdoors.
