Has anyone used the ScotteVest? I will be trying out the Tropical/Jacket Vest in Venice, Florence, and Tuscany in a few weeks. So far, it holds my camera, cell phone, binoculars, GPS and assorted maps, travel guides, and MP3 player, all with no bulk and all hidden from view. I will also be carrying a money belt and Pac-Safe fanny pack for Euros and passport. I would love to hear any input form someone that has some experience with them. Thanks for the input.
Mike
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
A ScotteVest jacket and a fanny pack is a bit redundant/overkill. I would return the fanny pack, and store extra cash/passport in your money belt. About four years ago I purchased SV's Microsuede jacket (no longer available) and I love it! It Eliminates the need for a day bag. It also looks fantastic, I've actually had strangers come up to me and complement me on the look of the jacket. When I tell them it has 25 hidden pockets they're shocked:)
Posted by
Ardmore, PA, US
225 posts
I agree with Michael. I have the Scott Essential jacket and it can carry what you described plus the fanny pack contents. Plus the fanny pack automatically points you out as a traveler. No need to make the obvious even more so.
Posted by
Austin, TX, USA
492 posts
I used a ScotteVest this last May and loved it!!!! I was also able to keep a small water bottle in there. If the weather will be warm, you will be warmer with it, when we were there it was a little on the cool side and we had some rain days so it was great on those days. Also nice for getting through airport security, just load it up. I would not bother with a fanny pack unless you really need to.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
I would think that jacket would be pretty toasty in Italy in mid-September, wouldn't it?
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Posted by
OP
Eugene, Oregon, US
14 posts
Thank you everyone for your input and suggestions. I actually went to the weather underground site and the average high for Florence is 80F and average low is 60F for the dates I will be there. The vest is very light and has mesh on the inside and is made for tropical wear. The zip off sleeves alow for it's use as a very light evening jacket, if needed. It's constructed for suspension of heavy objects and is quite surprisingly comfortable even with a heavier load. A casual observer cannot tell that you are carrying anything in the inside pockets. I will probably also use a money belt, or pac-safe fanny pack for passport, Euros, etc. I don't think I am fooling anyone that I am not a tourist, so I just go with that in mind. If you consider the concepts of cover and concealment; I view the vest as concealment, and the money belt or pac-safe as cover. I think the vest negates any need for a small day pack.
Thanks again,
Mike