AnsomMag.com |

“Packs with hydration systems are important for any camping display,” said Rothco’s Hans Blechschmidt, who advises retailers to increase their camping sales by grouping like items together and setting up a mini camping scene inside their store.

Rothco’s hydration packs include 2, 2 ½ and 3 liter models and range from basic packs consisting of a little more than a pack, straps and a bladder with tubing to elaborate models like the deluxe long range MOLLE assault pack, which includes webbing, a lumbar pad for comfort and a mesh back for breathability. The 17”x13”x8” pack is useful for backpackers going on two or three day treks, said Blechschmidt.

For general purpose activities, Rothco offers its Move Out bag with a shoulder strap and handle that can be used as an airline travel bag and converts into a backpack by withdrawing the shoulder strap and waist belt, which also can be tucked into the front sleeve to prevent damage from airport inspection machinery. The bag has a compartment for a small lap top and a front panel travel section for organizing office supplies and papers.

For Emco Supply in Waco, Texas, the one day assault pack, manufactured under Emco’s own Red Rock Outdoor Gear brand, remains the number one seller.

“It’s a bag that transcends a lot of activities,” said spokesman Guy Meredith. “It’s a hunter’s pack, a camping pack and a book bag. It’s small enough to pack, light weight but still expandable to fit just about anything you need for hunting, hiking or even photography.”

PACKING A PUNCH

New under the Red Rock label is the Diplomat, a 50-liter hydration compatible bag that measures 20”x20”x14”. A full three-day pack, the Diplomat includes a laptop sleeve and three miscellaneous pouches, one designed for the bedroll but the other two for general purpose.

With two hydration sleeves, one on each side, the Diplomat can accommodate a hydration system on one end and headphones from an iPod or MP3 player on the other.

“The two top sleeves are basically adjustable holes for a hose or cords,” said Meredith, who notes that the separate laptop sleeve is protected by a composite plastic frame. “It not only protects your laptop, but it doubles as a frame to evenly distribute the weight.”

Available in five colors, including two camo patterns, the Diplomat has sold well to different categories of customers, Meredith notes.

“The solid OD and military camo colors are doing well in army/navy stores, as they always have, but the general public has also taken a liking to army colors and camo as a style. There is not an airport in the country where you don’t see a bunch of guys carrying around a military pack,” Meredith said.

Bags and packs generate steady sales, he noted. “They are absolutely the most consistent items in our catalog. They sell all year long but are definitely stronger toward late summer when it is time to go back to school.”