Teton Sports Scout 3400 Backpack Review:
The Specs:
Volume: 55 liters
Weight: 4.5lbs
Frame: Internal Frame
Shell: 600D Canvas Shell
Colors: Hunter Green, Black, Metallic Silver, Navy Blue
Check Prices on MoosejawMy Experience With The Teton Sports Scout 3400:
When on the trail, a backpack is your home, so a functional one is crucial when undergoing a multi-day trek. I have personally used the Teton Sports Scout 3400 for several years. It is a durable and affordable pack, although it does have its drawbacks. Throughout this review, I will discuss my personal experience with it, including a thorough discussion of its pros and cons.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Price (extremely affordable)
- Lifetime warranty
- Durable
- Enough space to comfortably pack for a 3-5 day backpacking trip
- Rain cover included
- Adjustable torso strap going from 15” to 19.5”
Cons:
- Abrasive material particularly at shoulder straps and hips.
- Heavier weight, not ideal for ultralight backpacking.
Pros Of The Teton Scout 3400 Backpack
The Size And Storage:
Teton Sports has several different-sized packs available to purchase. For this review, we will focus on the Teton Sports Scout 3400, which is 55 liters by volume, ideal for multiday backpacking trips (typically three to five-day trips).
The storage space consists of the brain (top flap of the bag), main compartment, 3 liters for water bladder storage, side pockets, and a bottom section for a sleeping bag and pad storage. Something to keep in mind with the sleeping bag and pad section is that you must have a compressible sleeping bag made of some form of down or synthetic down material otherwise it is unlikely the sleeping bag will be able to fit in this compartment.
Regarding the outside of this pack, there are many different storage options to lash things onto the backpack. Specifically, the Scout is equipped with compression straps to help pack your contents down and buckles outside of the bag where you can attach additional equipment such as hiking poles, tents, extra clothes, or ice axes.
Price:
When it comes to value, you really cannot beat this pack as it comes in at a price of less than a hundred dollars, which is difficult to find in the industry. This is excellent for people looking into trying backpacking for the first time but who do not want to spend a ton of money on starting out. Worst case scenario, if you do not enjoy backpacking/hiking (doubt it), you can use this affordable backpack as luggage when traveling abroad.
Durability:
This pack has withstood the test of time for my first four years as a backpacker. Not only did I bring this pack across the United States on various backpacking trips, but I have also used it as a suitcase when traveling abroad through Europe and Asia. This pack has taken a beating over several years, yet it still works great and does not have a single scratch. This is thanks to the durable 600D Canvas shell which protects both the pack and its contents from the harsh conditions of the wilderness.
Lifetime Warranty:
Another nice perk of this pack is the excellent warranty that comes along with it. Teton Sports offers a lifetime warranty and will fix or replace your backpack if it sustains any damage during your ownership of it. I have yet to use this warranty because of its previously mentioned durability. However, it is nice to have the peace of mind that your purchase is protected under a lifetime warranty.
Cons Of The Teton Sports Scout 3400 Backpack
Weight:
To start the cons, we will begin with its weight. The Teton Sports Scout 3400 weighs significantly more than its cohorts at a whopping 4.5lbs. This additional weight can slow you down and tire you out faster, especially for long-distance backpacking trips. If you are looking for your next ultralight backpack, this is certainly not it.
Material:
While the pack has padding around the hips and shoulders, the material is quite abrasive. It can cause some discomfort, particularly in the shoulders during longer hikes carrying a heavy load. The abrasive material of the shoulder straps has even led to me developing blisters in the past, especially during rainy days or when I am wearing a thin material shirt. While the pack is durable and very affordable, the abrasive material is one of its significant drawbacks that can be an annoyance on the trail.
Who Should Purchase The Teton Scout 3400 Backpack
The Grand Teton Scout 3400 backpack is an excellent buy for individuals looking to get started in backpacking. Although it is not the highest quality pack, it has all of the necessary features to allow you to go on a multi-day backpacking trip and enjoy your time on the trail. Between its durability, space, and price, this is an excellent bargain backpack for a beginner! If you are a more experienced backpacker, I recommend looking into one of our higher-end recommendations on our backpacking gear blog.
Teton Sports Scout 3400 Final Overview:
This backpack gets the job done. There are some drawbacks, including heavier weight and abrasive material. However, it is a sturdy backpack that will last you a while and provides a great value at its price point.
