I'm currently putting together a tentative gear list for a thru-hike. So far the tentative estimate for supplies is around the $400 mark, and I'm trying not to get above it as I still have to budget for clothing for the trip.
While I've been browsing new hiking backs, I've also considered using my dad's old sea bag. It's a durable canvas material and as far as size it can carry as much of not more than a lot of the expensive packs out there. At a glance, the largest downsides are a lack of outer storage, and lack of a waist strap; both of these can be remedied with a little sewing.
At a glance it seems like there could be issues with ergonomics and accessibility regarding items inside. I'm not expecting to be packing more than 25lbs at the most; right now the gear I've amassed totals out at about 17lbs.
So I want to know if anyone has any experience hiking with a sea bag? Do you think sewing additions will be enough to make it an acceptable tool, or would it probably be better to purchase something specifically tailored for this kind of activity?