Backpack A 90+ liter pack is recommended. On the Winter Seminar, your pack must be large enough for your layers, climbing gear, and food, as well as a portion of your tent and group load (kitchen equipment). A separate summit pack isn't necessary.
Mountain Hardwear
BMG™ 105
GREGORY
Denali™ Pro 105
OSPREY
Xena 85
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Pack Tips A slightly larger capacity pack is convenient for use on the mountain. More room inside allows you to dig around in the pack without needing to pull items out and set them on the slope to find what you are looking for. Attachment loops for securing an ice axe and snowshoes are key for the Rainier climb. Many packs come with a removable flap separating the sleeping bag compartment from the main body of the pack (extra weight and not needed). Most guides remove this flap as the pack carries and packs better with a single compartment. We have found that a cheap and effective way to waterproof your pack is to simply line it it with a garbage bag and then packing everything inside to keep all the contents dry.
Check out Whittaker Mountaineering's Backpack Guide for the specifics of finding the right pack.
Ready to Start Packing? Read RMI Guide Pete Van Deventer's Packing Tips on the RMI Blog.
PACK & BAG