Q: What does Rec'd Base Weight mean?
[Answer]
A: Recommended Base Weight refers to the total weight of all gear carried (including the weight of your ULA backpack). This includes water bottles and food stuff sacks but not water and food as this will vary during each trip. Knowing your base weight will help you determine which suspension system can best handle your on the trail load.
Q: Can a water bottle fit in the side mesh pockets? If so, can I reach it?
[Answer]
A: Each side mesh pocket can accommodate one 1-Liter 'Big Slam' style bottle. A Nalgene-style bottle will also fit, but in your quest to lighten up, that should have been replaced a long time ago! In general most people can reach back and retrieve a bottle, drink, and return the bottle to the pocket without removing the pack. The top of the side mesh pockets are angled for easier access.
Q: How do I use my sleeping pad in conjunction with the CDT? What pads work the best?
[Answer]
A: Along the interior of the backpanel there are two lengths of elastic. This lengths of elastic are sewn into the backpanel at a diagonol. The elastic stretches to accomodate multiple thicknesses of sleeping pads and keeps the pad from creeping upward as you move. ¾ and full length pads that can be folded (as opposed to rolled) work the best. If you are using an inflatable mattress, deflate, then fold it into 1/3's or 1/5's before inserting.