Toronto Travel Stores, besides MEC

Posted by Faith (Toronto) on 04/25/10 07:59 PM

Hello fellow travelers!

Okay, here is the situation. I have been cruising the net for quite a while, and part of my gathering of information for my travels next summer is finding out stores that I can go to to shop. I am wary of the online purchase, especially of clothing as I have a weird body, and I know that I could never get my backpack without trying it on with weights and actually seeing and touching it.

I'm basically starting from scratch for this backpacking trip. While I have been to Europe, I definitely haven't for this long (2 months) and in this way (backpacking and hosteling).

So if there is anyone that could point me in the direction of good travel shops in Toronto or the surrounding GTA area that would be greatly appreciated. I think that the MEC website is already sick of me, the amount of times I've been on there!

Thank you so much everyone :D

Posted by Ken

Vernon, Canada

04/25/10 10:03 PM

32349 posts

Faith,

For travel clothing, you might start with the Tilley flagship store at 900 Don Mills Road. The clothing is a bit pricey but it's good quality and designed for travel. I've found their sizing can be a bit "off" between the different lines, so it's best to visit the store and try it on first.

What type of luggage or Backpack are you considering? You might have a look at the Osprey line. Check www.ospreypacks.com/Dealers for a list of dealer in your area. You could also have a look at the Eagle Creek line. Check www.eaglecreek.com/store_locator/search_results.php for dealers.

You'll have to decide if you want panel load or top load design. The most important thing with a Pack is proper fitting for torso length. Most of the weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. Some manufacturers provide models with harness designed specifically for women. Two features I really like with Backpacks are a detachable Daypack (works great for carry-on) and a stowable harness (prevents straps from being torn-off by airport luggage handling systems).

Regarding travelling for 2 months, remember Rick's advice - "pack the same for two weeks as for two months" (the quote might not be perfect, but you get the idea).

What other travel gear are you looking for?

Cheers!

Posted by wendy

toronto

04/26/10 04:18 AM

351 posts

I also think that MEC may be tired of me. I seem to go way to much to look around. I have not tried it yet but Adventure (use to be Coast Mountain Sports) is my next stop. They have a big store downtown at the Eaton's Center. The website has a variety of items.

Good Luck.

Posted by Martine

Ottawa, Canada

04/26/10 04:38 AM

695 posts

Faith, you could check this store website's
http://bushtukah.com/
very nice store, lot of selection. It might give you other options that you could try out somewhere in Toronto, or maybe come for a visit to Ottawa!

Posted by Travel Boss

Myrtle Beach, USA

04/26/10 05:50 AM

12313 posts

I agree about shopping online. I'm pretty standard sizing but I like to feel the fabric and try stuff on before I buy. When I purchase online, there is a good chance I'll never wear it (and never return it).

I'd say check out any clothing or department store and read the label for materials. If you find the right material, it doesn't need to come from an expedition outfitter. I like shopping at places like LL Bean, Mountain Equipment and REI but they are fairly limited in style and generally expensive (although I have gotten the occasional great deal during sales).

Another option is to shop in store, find what you want, then look for the exact item online (though it seems somewhat unfair to the retailers carrying the item).