Every traveller knows that a good backpack is one of the most important pieces of kit you’ll ever need.
The Pumori 60+10 is built to last with its Excel® 210D double line Ripstop nylon body which is tough but lightweight and the Excel® 1680D polyester base has abrasion resistance so you don’t need to worry about wear and tear on this backpack.
The Pumori is the pinnacle of the Vango backpacking collection and is designed to provide comfort and stability, even when full to the hilt. The easily adjustable A3 back system consists of three lightweight alloy bars that provide support across the entire frame. Additional rods and contoured frame bars, along with the bi-crescent dense foam hip belt, ensure the weight is carried on the hips comfortably.
The Pumori has Airmesh fabric at body contact points to keep the user dry and cool. The flexibility of having both front and top access to the main compartment is ideal for easy packing and quick access. Other key features include Dura Flex buckles, a detachable floating lid with zippered pocket, and a zippered base compartment. The Pumori is also a Duke of Edinburgh Award recommended product.Additional features of this fantastic rucsac include a sternum strap with emergency whistle, ice axe/walking pole attachment points, a detachable rain cover and a zip map pocket. It is also hydration system compatible.
An essential piece of kit for a gap year is a sleeping bag that will keep dry and warm in coolder climes as well as suiting visits to warmer regions when breathability is key. For those travelling light the Ultralite series of sleeping bags is ideal. With its highly compressible Insulite® Superfine Insulation, made up of a blend of spiralised, siliconised fibres, this bag does not compromise on warmth. It has a 3D hood with multi-cord hood closure and an arrow foot shape to minimisexcess air inside the bag. The Ultralite has a soft and breathable Polair® RSN shell with water resistant finish, which keeps condensation on the outside of the bag to keep the insulation dry. The Polair® Mini-RSN lining is soft, warm, breathable and abrasion resistant so ensures the bag will last for your entire journey. All bags in the range feature an internal pocket to keep your valuables safe and safe as well as a three panel 3D hood for added warmth and comfort. For warmer seasons, the Ultralite 100 is a two season sleeping bag that weighs just 800g. If you are looking for something a little warmer, the two-three season 200 model has a suggested usage between 4-25 degrees C and the three-four season Ultralite 400 provides the ultimate warmth, ideal for temperatures down to -6 degrees C.
If your choice of gap year adventure will be taking you to exotic destinations, then the Planet sleeping bag is the perfect choice. Designed with the traveller in mind, it features a mosquito net and Healthguard Anti Mosquito Finish to repel mosquitoes, sand flies, midges and wasps. It also features HHL Hygiene Protection that uses antibacterial technology to protect against a wide range of microorganisms to prevent bacteria, dust mites, odour and mould from taking up residence in your sleeping bag, so it is an ideal piece of kit for allergy sufferers.
With a highly breathable Polair® diamond Ripstop shell and Polair® Silky micro lining, the Planet is perfectly adapted for warmer climates, wicking moisture away from your body and keeping you dry and comfortable through the night. This highly versatile bag also features the Insulite Superfine insulation and multi-cord hood closure, to keep you snug on those colder nights. Available in three different models, the Planet 50 is a 1-2 season bag available in two colourways, The two season100 model suits mild to cool temperatures and the 150 model provides two-three season comfort. All models come complete with a reversible compression stuffsac, which has a soft fleece lining which can double up as a pillow for an extra space-saving solution.
Vango also have some great accessories to increase comfort on your trip, such as a Cotton Liner for your sleeping bag. These are 100% cotton and feel wonderfully soft against the skin. Complete with stuffsac, they come in junior, square, mummy and double shapes to fit your sleeping bag perfectly.
The Foldaway Pillow folds into its own pocket to allow easy packing. Made of 100% soft polyester with a Polair® Ripstop polyester side, it is water-resistant, tough and washable. The Stuffsac need not only be used for sleeping bags, but can store all of the above products, clothing, or anything else you want to pack away tightly. It has draw cord closure and comes in S-XL sizes.
While on your travels why not remind yourself of home with a nice cup of tea from the stainless steel Flask & Mug Set. This 500ml flask from Vango has a screw top with pouring spout & plastic rimmed/lined drinking cup. The 450ml mug is double walled with a lid and shaped handle – perfect for taking in the view and relaxing with.
If you feel like doing some late-night exploring or caving on your gap year, then the 10LED Headtorch is a must-have. This adaptable piece of kit has a three mode button switch and adjustable headband. It is operated by three AAA batteries and lasts up to 30 hours – great for long late-night adventures.
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