Packing a backpacking pack accurately is a skill that may go unnoticed until you find yourself on the trail, experiencing discomfort caused by an object pressing against your lower back. After a few hours hiking in the hot sun and dusty trails, you will realize the importance of having your water filter easily accessible at the top of your bag. Furthermore, when unexpected rain begins, you may struggle to recall where you placed the pack cover.
CHOOSING A BACKPACK
When selecting a backpacking pack, two important factors to consider are its volume and fit. If you are satisfied with your current backpack, you may skip this step. However, if you require assistance in choosing the perfect backpack for your adventures, continue reading. Please note that this article solely focuses on internal frame packs, as they are the preferred choice among the majority of backpackers.
VOLUME
When considering the volume of your pack, it should be able to accommodate all of your gear while avoiding unnecessary weight. Backpacking bags are measured in liters, and for overnight trips, a capacity between 40 and 70 liters is recommended. The appropriate volume will vary depending on your gear style (ultralight setups require less space compared to traditional gear) and the type of trips you prefer. Do you only go on one-night excursions or do you partake in weeklong treks where you carry a significant amount of food? Will you ever need to carry a bear can or engage in snow camping? If the answer is yes, then you will require a slightly larger volume.
For most trips, the ideal backpack size for an average backpacker is between 45-65 liters. The weight of these packs can vary from one to five pounds based on personal preferences. If you prefer a minimalist pack with no padding and fewer pockets, it will be lighter. On the other hand, if you want a more comfortable and full-featured pack, it will weigh more. Packing correctly becomes crucial when using a minimalist pack as it lacks cushioning, whereas cushier bags are more forgiving and prevent items from pressing into your back easily. For most people, a good weight range is between two to three pounds, providing a balance between weight and features.
FIT
The comfort of a backpacking pack is dependent on its fit, and this begins with selecting the appropriate size. Typically, packs are available in two or three sizes which correspond to the length of the pack that suits your back. It is advised to visit a local outdoor store to be measured by an expert, but if you prefer to do it yourself, a video demonstrating the process is available. Remember to always verify sizing across various brands, as they may not adhere to a uniform system.
If you prefer to do it yourself, here’s the step-by-step process for properly adjusting your pack straps, which is crucial for assessing fit. The store employees can also guide you on this.
- Always clip and adjust your hip belt first. The top of your hip bone should rest squarely in the middle of the waistbelt—80% of the pack’s weight will rest on your hips.
- Tighten the shoulder straps by grabbing the strap tails below your armpits and pulling down and away. The shoulder straps should feel comfortable against your body, with no gaps above your shoulders. Don’t over-tighten though, or you will shift too much weight from your hips to your shoulders and they will start to ache quickly.
- Adjust the load lifter straps, which run from the top of the pack to the shoulder straps. They should sit at about a 45 degree angle.
- Clip and adjust the sternum strap, which should sit about one inch below your collarbone. Give it just enough tension to sit smooth and flat across your body, but no tighter or it could restrict breathing.
It would be best if you could try on different packs with weight and wear them in the store for some time, going step by step. It is important to pay attention to any areas that consistently rub against your body as they may cause discomfort later on.
ASSEMBLING GEAR FOR YOUR TRIP
Determining what gear to bring for your trip is primarily influenced by the season and location. If you plan to travel during the peak of summer to a place where the temperature doesn’t drop below approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit, you can manage with a lightweight sleeping bag or quilt and fewer warm clothes. However, if you are embarking on your trip during a transition period between seasons or ascending to higher elevations with unpredictable weather, it is necessary to have gear that can endure various conditions and provide warmth and dryness.
The duration of your trip primarily influences the amount of food you should bring, whereas the list of gear remains unchanged (no, you don’t have to wear a different outfit each day). If you are embarking on a week-long or longer journey, you might need a larger backpack to accommodate your food requirements. It is generally advised to pack 2-2.5 pounds of food per person per day for a typical backpacking trip. Ensure you select food options that are high in calories to provide sufficient energy for your body.
Packing for a backpacking trip becomes simpler when you are with a group since the load can be divided among members. If you are sharing a stove, tent, or water treatment, distributing these items between hikers will lighten the weight carried by each individual. However, it is crucial to stick together or ensure that every person has a backup water treatment option such as tablets in case of getting lost and requiring to treat their own water.
To ensure that you have all the necessary items, including food for each day, arrange all your gear and visually inspect them before commencing the packing process.
Clothes
- 2 quick-dry trekking t-shirts
1 to wear, 1 to change into – you won’t need more no matter how long your hike is. - 1 pair of trekking trousers
- 1 fleece cardigan
- 1 warm padded jacket
I always keep this one dry. It also works great as a pillow stuffing. - 1 rain jacket
- 1 pair of waterproof trousers
- 1 pair of base layers
I wear the bottom under my waterproof trousers on rainy days and sleep in the whole outfit. I use vegan-friendly synthetic baselayers by Helly Hansen: top & bottom - 1 pair of hiking boots
Make sure you walk them in in advance to minimise the risk of blisters! - 1 pair of camp shoes
I always bring light-weight trainers to change into. Alternatively, you could bring trekking sandals. - 2 Buffs + 1 pair of gloves
I use one buff on my head or neck, and the other to create a pillow at night. - 4 pairs of socks
2 for hiking – I use these vegan-friendly socks; 1 for camp, 1 for bed, which I never wear outside & keep dry. - Underwear
How many depends on how long I walk – no more than 5;
Miscellaneous
- Maps + a small compass
Particularly when you hike without a guide and along a trail that is not well-marked. Know how to use them! - Camera, spare batteries + SD cards
I always hike with my Canon M3 – the image quality is great, but it’s small and lightweight! - A strong power bank to charge your devices
If you’re wild-camping throughout your trip you could also invest in a solar power bank. - A few pieces of paper and a pen for notes
- Waterproof pouches
To store your maps & guidebook, electronic devices and other things that need to stay dry. - 1 roll of toilet paper + matches in a waterproof pouch
- A small trowel
To leave no trace. - A sleeping mask
If you hike in northern regions where it gets dark quite late and you have issues sleeping.
Toiletries & First Aid
- Bio-degradable camping soap
This is usually multi-purpose – for your body, hair, dishes and laundry. - Toothbrush and toothpaste
I use an eco-friendly bamboo toothbrush and tooth tabs with fluoride - Sunscreen
- Insect repellant + Tiger Balm
- Tweezers, nail clipper & tick remover
- Hand disinfecting gel
- 1 quick-dry travel towel
- Tissues
- Full first aid kit & plenty of blister plasters
HOW TO PACK A BACKPACK (HOW TO MAKE IT ALL FIT!)
ZONE 1: THE BOTTOM
To efficiently pack your backpack, begin by placing your bulky midweight items in the bottom. The first item to put in should be your sleeping bag, as it acts as a foundation for the rest of your gear. Many individuals opt to utilize waterproof stuff sacks for their sleeping bags, although others prefer to directly stuff the bag into the bottom to occupy the space. Following this, you can position your sleeping pad beside the sleeping bag, taking into consideration its size. Finally, use your camp clothes and, if applicable, your pillow to occupy any remaining gaps in the backpack.
Certain backpacks have a designated section specifically for a sleeping bag located at the bottom, allowing access through a zipper and featuring a detachable sling to accommodate additional belongings above the sleeping bag. If requiring more room inside the backpack, refrain from utilizing the sling.
ZONE 2: THE MIDDLE BACK
The area closest to the center of your back, known as the middle back of your pack, is where you should position all your heaviest gear. This location, referred to as the center of gravity of your pack, is crucial in maintaining stability as you walk, preventing it from swinging around and throwing off your balance. Items that should be placed in this section include the tent body (and poles if they fit), cookware, stove, fuel, and any food that won’t be needed until you reach camp.
To ensure you are utilizing all of the available space, including the interiors of your cookware, it is important to think methodically. Some pots have the capacity to hold both a fuel canister and a compact stove.
The middle back is where your pack is specifically designed to carry a hydration reservoir, as water is one of the heaviest items you carry (with one liter weighing 2.2 pounds, or 1,000 grams).
To ensure ease of use, it is recommended that you fill your reservoir and position it in your pack prior to packing any other gear. This will become exceptionally difficult once your pack is completely filled. Many packs have a small opening on either side of the shoulder straps, allowing the hose to exit and be securely attached to your preferred shoulder strap.
ZONE 3: THE FRONT
The front part of the pack, being the furthest from your body, is where you should store your lightest gear. Utilize lightweight clothes, a camp towel, and small toiletries to occupy any additional space surrounding the heavier items that are placed against your back. Additionally, you can use clothes to insulate hard items or prevent gear from shifting.
ZONE 4: THE TOP
The upper part of your pack consists of the inner top of the main pack and the lid, which is referred to as the pack’s brain. In this area, you should keep lighter weighted items to avoid making your pack top-heavy. These items should be ones that you require quick access to, such as first aid, a water filter (unless it is larger, in which case it should be kept in an external pocket), snacks, a compass, sunscreen, a rain jacket, etc. This ensures that you do not have to unpack your entire bag each time you need something.
If you have a foam sleeping pad that is bulky and lightweight and doesn’t fit easily into your pack, you can utilize the space between the lid and the pack body. To do this, loosen the straps that connect the lid to the pack, insert the pad between the two, and then tighten the straps until it is securely in place. This method can also be used to store an ultralight tent, but it is not advisable for tents weighing more than around 24 ounces in order to maintain a balanced center of gravity.
