Backpacker

Reviews 6

TH

Thomas Lahey

I was in the market for an Osprey Pack and was looking to get a fitting and suggestions as to the correct model and size to purchase given the many fine Osprey options. Being somewhat new to the area, Id seen one of the outdoor stores in downtown Charleston, and stopped there first. The sales clerks were not knowledgeable, nor helpful. Perhaps its just the downtown location where there are lots of tourists, so I tried the Mt. Pleasant location. Same thing, the counter help was fine to ring up a sale, but had no in-depth product knowledge. "The packs are up there" with a flip of the hair. I saw "The Backpacker" in Mt Pleasant listed on the Osprey site and thought Id give it one more try before I broke down and just purchased on-line. I am SO glad that I did. I could tell the difference just walking into the shop on Tuesday afternoon. I received a genuine friendly greeting, and an offer to help if I needed it. I had a look around first, never having been in the store, and when the clerk saw that I was looking at backpacks, asked if I had any questions. I explained that I was looking for a pack but wanted some advice. He politely said that I would be better off speaking with his co-worker Canham who was more knowledgeable and said that he would send him over as soon as he was finished with another customer. After a short wait, Canham came over and asked a series of questions, about my hiking goals, style, and gear, then explained the features that he would recommend and showed them to me on a choice of packs. He took the time to measure, explaining the "why" of the measuring process, and translating it to the various packs. He was patient, allowed me to get my gear and verify that it fit well, and to insure that we selected the correct size pack, helped with accessories and offered to order in some that were not in stock. What impressed me more, was that the initial associate who was less familiar, stayed with us and also asked questions to learn. Once selected, Canham insured that I fully understood how to properly adjust the pack and explained all of the features. We also put in some weight and had me walk around with it for a bit, to make sure that it carried well. Its one of the "surest" equipment purchases that Ive made in a long time! I assumed that, given a full fitting at an outfitters store that the pack would be at full list price, and would have been happy to pay it for the excellent advice and service. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that the price was less than on Amazon! (I more than made up for it by purchasing additional accessories) It is fantastic to find a specialty shop with knowledgeable staff who care, excellent customer service and fair prices. You can be assured that Ill be doing much more of my outdoor shopping from "The Backpacker" in the future. Thanks for a wonderful experience.

---

A

A Private User

My brother is Mr. Outdoors and I am So Not so I knew I was going to need a lot of help finding the perfect Christmas present for him. First I went to the Half Moon Outfitters conveniently located near my house to see if I could get some ideas/help. Unfortunately None of the staff talked to me the entire hour I spent there, not even to say "hello," much less ask if I needed help. So I went back online to see if there were any other stores I could try. I found the Backpacker in Mount Pleasant and, even though I had to pass 2 Half Moons to get there, I decided to give it a shot. Within a minute of entering the door, a nice fellow asked me if I needed help. I told him about my brother, and, using his own experience, he gave me several excellent ideas. He even gift-wrapped everything beautifully. Thank you Backpacker so much for your help!!

---

NI

Nicole Kruse

First of all: The prices! They actually beat Amazon on some things! And what they didnt beat, the prices were just about the same. I went into this store on a whim after just moving to the area, and I got so much help from the employees on where the best trails are in the state and had some great, genuine conversation. Whenever I need backpacking or camping gear from now on I will come here, even over Amazon!

---

BE

Benjamin Toy

Its been about 10 years since I went backpacking, so when the opportunity came to go to Yellowstone I jumped on it. Since I got rid of all my gear, I was grateful that the Backpacker was a one-stop shop. The staff was extremely knowledgeable in helping me determine what was best for my needs as well as educating me on the newer trends since a lot has changed.

---

A

A Private User

I love having a quality local store to purchase items and also to check out great gear. While I am not able to purchase everything from this small local shop, i sure do love what they offer!

---

AD

Adam Sumner

BEST STORE IN THE LOWCOUNTRY!! Lauren and her staff are so helpful and the clothes and gear are the best!

---

---