Hiking
Backpacks

Since not all hikes are the same, it stands to reason that there is an assortment of specialized hiking backpacks designed to meet a variety of needs. The pack that you choose will depend, for the most part, on the type of hiking you will ordinarily be doing. If you are an avid hiker and backpacker, chances are, you will end up with more than one, or even two, backpacks.

Backpack Loading

The first word of caution should be with regard to the size of the hiking backpack you choose. Since most people over-pack, you will want to be very careful not to get a pack that is too large. In this case, less is definitely better than more, and you’ll want your maximum loaded pack to be around 25% of your body weight or possibly a little more.

It’s much better to be a minimalist when it comes to deciding what to take on a backpacking trip. In addition, the actual size of the pack will depend on the type (severity) of the terrain you’ll be covering as well as the planned length of you trip. The length applies to both the amount of time (days) you will be on the trail as well as the physical distance (miles) your trip will cover.

Backpack Construction

There are two primary constructions for hiking backpacks that involve the frames: one is an internal frame and the other uses an external frame.

The internal frame pack is easier to maneuver and is generally easier on your back. Since the design of the frame allows the pack to be cinched closely to your back, the weight is more centered and is less tiresome to carry. There are no hard spots to rub your back the wrong way.

On the other hand, an external frame pack makes it easier to attach things like tents or sleeping bags directly to the exposed frame.

These trekker backpacks are designed for long hiking trips. The external frame packs tend to be lighter in weight that the ones with internal frames. When reading reviews, make sure that they are relavent to the hiking that you will be doing.

Walking for two or three months with all of your goods strapped to your back is quite and adventure and you want to be as comfortable as possible carrying everything. In preparation, you should try wearing your backpack around the house or for short day trips with a heavy load in it to test how your new pack feels before you take off on a long trip.

There are also some convertible hiking backpacks that allow you to split the load between your back and front side. This can help balance the load for those long treks. The front pack can also be used separately for a day trip.

In both the internal and external frame styles, it is important to have well padded should straps and a comfortable waist belt to transfer most of the load bearing work to your legs rather than your back. Smaller adjustable straps for tightening the load will also make the backpack more secure and better balanced. Once you determine that there is enough room inside the pack for the items you need to carry, it is also important to take note of the size and number of external pockets. It’s important to have a place for things like water bottles, first aid kits and any other small items that you’ll want conveniently at hand. 

Under-Stuff Your Backpack

Since most people have the tendency to over pack, be sure that you allow for enough drinking water and food items. Make it a conscious effort to slightly under pack when it comes to clothing items. It is not necessary to carry daily changes of outfits. Where clothing is concerned, it is more important to carry extra socks, than to have extra slacks or shirts. The best thing about packing food and water first is that the weight will decrease as your trip progresses. That’s not the case for clothing and other items.

Base Kitchen Pack Bag 

There are a few unique things to carry if you are going for a long camping trip. This base camp kitchen is an example. It folds up and slides into its carrying bag which you can strap to the bottom of your backpack. The storage bags (shown on the hanging shelves) are not included - neither are the pots and pans. Use your best judgement about how much you can comfortably carry. The most important items are your food and water supply, with the most important being the water. You will want to carry as much as possible unless you know you will have a source of water on your trip route.

Hiking backpacks are extremely unforgiving, only because you must carry them for many hours every day on the trail, so choose your pack wisely. To have an enjoyable backpacking trip, be aware of the weight you are comfortable carrying and do not pack any more than that weight. The best rule of thumb – take what you need and no more.