Though I've had a backpacking pack for a year and a half, this was the first time I've used it for anything apart from a carry-on. REI separated me from a good chunk of my first paycheck, but I'm happy to now have the rudiments for future backpacking trips. My friend who planned the trip is very experienced in backpacking, so it was good to learn from her as well. Hopefully there will be more adventures of this type ahead!