Zulu 30 vs. Zulu 40 Daypacks by Gregory Mountains Products

After moving out to California and getting more connected with nature, I discovered REI during the grand opening of their Burbank location. There I was introduced to my very first day hiking backpack.

At the time, all I was looking for was a backpack that would carry a water bladder and maybe store some extra clothes and food. Through this criteria, one of the REI store associates recommended the Zulu 30 by Gregory Mountain Products.

This lightweight backpack comfortably stored my water bladder, trail snacks, spare clothes, notebook, and a few miscellaneous items that I brought with me while exploring some of Los Angeles's best local hikes like Runyon Canyon, Angeles National Forrest, and Joshua Tree National Park.

Having only ever taken a water bottle and what I could carry in my pockets in the past, it was a huge upgrade moving to a rugged pack that could store additional items that I might want on the trail, and the Zulu 30 had a handful of great features:

• Breathable CrossFlo suspension - allows air to flow between your back and the pack

• Dedicated water bladder (ie. Camelbak) storage and integration

• Easy access zipper pockets

• Stylish colors and design

• Integrated rain cover

• Dual quick-access waist belt pockets

• Weight: 2.7 lbs.

• Dimensions: 21.5" x 13.0" x 8.0"

Almost a year later, my Zulu 30 was still in excellent condition, but as my collection of gear grew, my pack seemed to be shrinking. I returned to REI looking for a larger daypack.

Although REI's selection was wide, I had such a great experience with my Zulu 30, that I chose to stick with the Gregory brand, and upgraded to a Zulu 40.

The Zulu 40 had all of the same features of the Zulu 30, and a few more:

• More storage - could fit all gear from Zulu 30, plus a large DSLR camera, with wiggle room to comfortably access other items in the pack.

• Drawstring opening on main pocket - a more flexible alternative to the zipper opening

• More foam on the hipbelt, shoulder straps, and lumbar support - allowing you to carry more weight comfortably.

• Weight: 2.86 lbs. || Dimensions: 23.5" x 13.5" x 9.5"

Because REI has an amazing 365 Day Satisfaction Guarantee policy, I was able to return my Zulu 30 on day 364 without any hassle, and got my money back in full.

I'm still currently using my Zulu 40 and love having the additional storage space that I didn't have in the Zulu 30. However, the Zulu 30 was a little bit more enjoyable for trail running, due it's narrower design and typically because I'd be carrying less.

In conclusion, both packs are excellent investments for anyone looking to get into hiking, but because of the storage capacity, the Zulu 30 is best suited for day hiking and trail running, while the Zulu 40 opens up more options for day hiking and warm weather overnight camping. The main difference is simply the storage space.

Check out my video review of the Zulu 40 Daypack by Gregory Mountain Products.

Citations:

www.gregorypacks.com