Camping Gear - Choosing the Right Backpack
Going camping? Likely you'll need some sort of backpack to carry your
gear whether it's for a daytime hike or a long journey. Choosing the
right backpack is essential for comfort and practicality. Choose the
wrong pack and you may find yourself unable to keep up with your hiking
partners, excessively fatigued and sore or otherwise distracted from
the enjoyment of your outing.
What are the keys to choosing the right backpack?
SIZE:
The size of backpack you choose will depend on the nature of your trip.
Are you taking a day trip through a local park or going into the
mountains for a few weeks? What equipment or comforts do you need to
take with you?
If you select a bag that is too big for your needs you will tend to
overpack which will tire you out faster. Choose a bag according to what
you must carry. Assemble the gear you require to determine the size of
bag you need.
Manufacturers use different terms for size. What may be a large in one
brand could be a medium in another. You will have a better idea of size
based on the litre capacity or cubic inches listed.
FIT:
Do you want an internal or external frame? Will you need a hipbelt?
What kind of padding is provided?
Internal framed backpacks fit snugly against the body. They are
counterbalanced with hipbelts and sternum straps. Look for good quality
padding on the shoulders and hip belt to prevent chaffing and creating
sore points. The internal framed backpack should fit the torso of the
user. Women and children will usually need short torso fits. Men should
measure for fit since torso length is not always relative to height.
External frames hold the pack away from the body. They are cooler to
wear in hot weather but are less stable and not a good choice for
hiking in less than ideal conditions that require balance, climbing,
skiing or managing rough trails.
MATERIAL and SPECIAL FEATURES:
The material of your backpack will depend on the conditions you expect
to travel in. Hardier fabrics will cost more and may be heavier but are
worth it if you will be travelling in inclement weather or for an
extended trip that will cause wear and tear. Choosing lighter, cheaper
fabrics is fine for day trips.
If you are taking climbing equipment, snowshoes or other sporting
equipment it is best to find a backpack with specific attachment
features for your gear. Trying to retro fit your gear can cause undo
strain to your backpack and force you to slouch to one side in
compensation for an off-balanced pack.
Take all aspects into consideration when choosing your backpack since
your comfort will be your biggest concern when you hit the trails.