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Backpacking and camping enjoy an inverse relationship to economic and political upheavals. In the months following 9/11, the camping industry surged as people, reluctant to travel abroad, sought vacations close to home. Sales also benefited from the crossover between the camping and survivalist industries as greater numbers of people turned to preparing emergency kits.

The current economic climate is exerting a similar effect. The summer of 2009 promises to be a strong sales season for both family camping and backpacking, as people seek alternatives to vacations involving expensive hotel accommodations.

National park campsites have reported a large increase in reservations for family camping, notes Elie Markin of Ledmark Industries
“We are expecting a lot of people to stay local. Families that took vacations in Disneyland last year will be taking their vacations in a tent.”
Doc Dowidat of Miller’s Surplus in Tucson, Arizona noted that on a recent, cool, early April Saturday, sales of camping and backpacking equipment were brisk.

“We are doing very well. People are going to staying close to home and exploring the areas where they live,” Dowidat observed.
Backpacks are the most essential piece of equipment, whether for the car camper taking a day hike or the overnight camper traveling into backcountry.
“A backpack is your home on your back,” Dowidat said, noting that comfort, space and durability are the most important features in choosing the proper backpack.

Millers carries a large inventory of Jansport, including more than 20 different styles of daypacks, six styles of internal frame packs and two external styles.
“Jansport has been in this industry a long time. Their packs go on many expeditions. An internal frame pack can be as large as 6,000 cubic inches, Dowidat said.

Miller’s largest and most expensive Jansport pack is a 5,700 cubic inch model that retails for $180.00.