The Complete Guide to Selecting and Fitting the Proper Backpack
So, you're packing for your next overnight hike and just the thought of carrying your old canvas pack makes your shoulders hurt. You spent several hours clicking around the internet checking out the newest packs, but there are so many new features and materials, it is all a bit confusing. Wouldn't it be great if there was a simple guide that lays out everything you need to know about selecting and fitting the right backpac?
Well, you've come to the right place! There are several important factors you should consider when selecting a backpack. While you may want a pack in just the right shade of green with a space for your iPod, there are many other things to consider, for example:
- What you will be doing with the pack,
- Where you will be doing it, and,
- What you will be carrying.
I mean, these are rather essential issues when you plan to spend several hours, days, or even weeks with that backpack snuggled up against your spine. So, let’s take a look at the factors you may consider:
What Will You Be Doing? How will you be using the pack? People use backpacks for everything from hiking the Appalachian Trail to carrying school books. How you intend to use the pack will directly influence the type of pack you choose. Many backpacks are designed for specific uses. Such things as capacity, materials and frame-types can make or break your trip. So start by making a brief list of the type of trips are you planning. Are you going to be doing lots of day hikes, wilderness or hike-in camping, or extend hikes of several days or weeks? You may also be considering uses such as cross country skiing or rock climbing. For activities like climbing, pack shape is essential not just to comfort, but even saftey. With a little looking, you can find a pack that works well for each of these activities. We will go into detail on each of these issues in future articles.
Where Are You Going? What type of weather will you encounter? Wet? Dry? Hot and humid? Snow and ice? What type of terrain? Smooth trails? Steep slopes and rocky hills? Will there be dense vegetation?
What Will You Be Carrying? A bottle of water and a peanut butter sandwich or 3 months worth of food and camping gear, plus photo equipment? Are you a large framed man or a 5 foot-tall woman?
Once you have considered all these questions, make a quick list of your basic requirements and read on for more information:
- The Complete Guide to Selecting and Fitting the Proper Backpack
- Different Types of Packs for Different Uses
- Backpack Capacity
- Fitting a Backpack
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