[Review] The Phantom LR 24 by CamelBak

Whether you’re heading out into the backcountry to ski, dabble in hike to terrain at ski resorts, or just need a great winter pack for any adventures, the Phantom LR 24 pack by CamelBak is comfortable, nicely fitting, and will keep you organized and hydrated.

With a zip-able harness for the insulated drinking tube, your water supply is sure to stay drinkable no matter what temperature you find yourself out in. I love the new reservoirs that CamelBak is using as they are extremely easy to fill, especially with the quick connect hose connections and separate pocket in the pack. The valve has also been recently upgraded and with gloves on is very easy to operate.

The adjustability on the Phantom makes for a very comfortable fit and feel whether you’re skiing fresh powder or five-day-old chunder. The hip belt is extremely stable and no matter how much weight I have on the back of my pack, I can’t really ever feel it swinging around on me. Combined with the help belt, there’s also a sternum strap to keep the pack in place. I was definitely nervous that the pack would always feel like it was pulling off my back-especially loaded down-but I have yet to have that happen to me, even with skis strapped on. I am overall very impressed and happy with the fit of the Phantom.

I love the fact that you can either A-frame or diagonal mount your skis (and if you snowboard there is a nice vertical carry system). The versatility is really nice to have in case you find yourself in various conditions/situations. Most of the straps on the Phantom either hide away or have elastic holding excess strap in place. This is a huge bonus, especially if you plan on using this pack on a chairlift. The less straps you have dangling all over the place, the less of a chance you have of getting embarrassingly caught up on the chairlift.

The extras on the pack are not excessive and everything is very usable and functional. I love that the goggle pocket is lined so you can throw your goggles or sunglasses in it without the fear of them getting destroyed. The helmet carry is also sweet and tucks into its own little garage. 

The avy gear pocket has to be one of my favorite features on the pack. First of all, the zipper and zipper pulls are a different color than the rest of the pack (bright yellow) so it is very easy to distinguish from the rest of your pockets. It seems like a silly thing but when faced with the stress and time restraints of needing your avy gear, a simple feature will really help. There are nice little slots in this pouch for your probe and shovel handle and it keeps it all organized and easy to get to. Keep in mind that they only thing you should have in your avy gear pocket is avy gear (unless of course you aren’t using this pack for this purpose).

There is plenty of room in the pack for your daily ski gear including but not limited to extra layers, goggles, skins, snacks, and water (3L to be exact). With multiple carry options for your skis/snowboard and a very comfortable and stable fit, the Phantom LR 24 is perfect for any of your winter activities.