6 Great Tips on Hiking Backpacks

• Should you try ultralight backpacking?
• How to reduce your backpack's weight
• Fanny packs: An alternative to backpacks
• How to put on a backpack for your hike
• How to adjust your backpack for a good fit
• How to clean your backpack post-hike
• BONUS: How to select a daypack hiking kids can use

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

6 Tips on Selecting Your Next Backpack

• Which backpack is best for your hike?
• Use length, season of hike to determine backpack's volume
• How to select best backpack size for hike
• Fabrics used to make backpacks offer competing positives, negatives
• Get backpack with padded hip belt for heavy loads, long distances
• Backpacks for adults who day hike with kids
• BONUS: "Society speaks and all men listen; mountains speak and wise men listen." - John Muir

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

5 Great Tips on Backpacks for Hiking

• Get right fitting backpack for your day hike
• Know parts of backpack to make best buy
• When is weight of your backpack important?
• Useful modifications to improve a backpack
• How to repair your backpack during a hike
• BONUS: "The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." - John Muir

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to adjust your backpack for a good fit

Even after carefully loading your backpack, it still may feel uncomfortable once you get it on. You almost certainly will need to adjust its straps for the best fit – even if you’ve already done so on previous hikes. The amount of clothes you wear, what is in the backpack that was or wasn’t there the last time you hiked, and even minute changes in your body shape from exercising or weight gain/loss can alter how it fits on you.

Start with the hip belt. If it’s loose or too tight, the buckle may not be positioned correctly. If shifting that doesn’t work, you’ll need to tighten or loosen the strap as needed.

Next, go to the shoulder straps. If they feel loose, pull down on ends of the straps to tighten. If they are too tight, you probably will need to take off the backpack and loosen the straps. Be sure that each strap is even with the other or the pack will sit lopsided on your back.

In tandem with the shoulder straps, you may need to adjust the lift-loader straps. These are located near your shoulders just below your collarbone. Tightening the lift-loaders takes pressure off your shoulders.

Finally, take care of the sternum strap. Typically it’s too tight across the chest; in that case, loosen the strap. Don’t allow it be too loose, however, as that will allow the backpack to shift on your back; should that occur, tighten the strap.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Keep your hiking gear zippers in good shape

Sometimes the littlest things make all the difference on a hike. A broken zipper is a prime example. When a zipper breaks on clothing, cold air and moisture from rain or snow can make its way into your underlayers, making for an uncomfortable walk. When a zipper breaks on a backpack, the contents inside can get wet or fall out. Unfortunately, zippers are common fail points on hiking gear.

Fortunately there are steps you can take to prolong the life of your zipper.

Packing/dressing
Never overstuff your backpack or clothing so that a zipper bulges. This only puts additional pressure on the zipper. Instead, repack or redress to avoid the bulge, usually by removing some items or a layer.

Don’t use the zipper to force a bag or clothing shut, even if there is no bulge. Instead, pull the material at the opening together with your hands. This also reduces stress on a zipper.

Use the metal tab rather than loops or ropes to zip up. This lessens the amount of force exerted on the zipper.

Snags
When zippers hit a snag, don’t force the slide (the part of the zipper that links and unlinks the teeth) through it. This typically will bend the teeth so that the zipper won’t work. Instead, back the zipper out of the snag then try it again.

When fabric is caught in a slider, gently pull the material from the metal to free the zipper.

During the hike
If a zipper breaks during a hike, you’ll want to have some items in your backpack to get you by. Two useful items are small thin elastic ropes and safety pins.

Either can be used as a temporary pull tab should that break. Simply tie a slip knot or attach the safety pin to the open hole to where the pull tab attached to the slider.

When the entire zipper breaks, safety pins can be used to close up your clothing or backpack pocket. The pin won’t be a perfect solution but will reduce the amount of cold and moisture hitting your body or prevent materials from falling out of your pack.

After the hike
Using a wet, soapy washcloth, gently remove any dirt or debris from your zipper. This will keep grit from getting caught in the teeth and the slider. Such grit can obstruct the zipper and result in snags. Do the same if you hike near the ocean, as the salt in the air can settle on and corrode the zipper’s metal.

Once the zipper is dry, lubricate it. A variety of both liquid and solid lubricants are available on the market for zippers. For a natural lubricant, use paraffin (candle) wax, powdered graphite, heat-softened beeswax.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Should you try ultralight backpacking?

Ultralight backpackers take the lightest
essentials needed for a hike.

To maximize comfort, you always want to go light, meaning carrying as little as possible. Some backpackers take this rule to the max, stripping every extra ounce of their backpack and loading it with only the lightest essentials. They’re practicing ultralight backpacking.

Ultralight backpacking offers a number of advantages. The most obvious is comfort, as the shoulders, back, hips and legs lug about less weight. Such a hiker is less likely to feel sore during or after a hike. The potential for injuries also decreases as maintaining one’s balance and footing is easier.

When walking, ultralight hiker also will be able to keep their energy level up for longer than someone carrying a heavier load, which means they’ll go farther and faster. A smaller load also gives one freedom to go places – such as up a steep incline or off trail to an interesting vista – that someone with a heavier load might not be inclined to do.

If ultralight backpacking offers so many benefits, you might ask why everyone doesn’t do it. That’s because there’s a certain feeling of safety one has in carrying more than the basic essentials. Some backpackers also are willing to sacrifice a little distance and length of time on the trail to enjoy the comforts that extra or heavier (and perhaps better built) gear offer.

Indeed, ultralight backpacking probably isn’t for someone who’s inexperienced with being in the wilderness when water filters and extra first-aid equipment are needed should you get lost or suffer an injury and need to be outdoors longer than you planned.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to clean your backpack post-hike

A few minutes of cleaning your backpack after a
hike can greatly extend its lifetime.

To extend the life of your backpack, you’ll want to do a little maintenance on it after the hike. Indeed, taking just a few minutes for this will solve a whole number of problems for you – mold, stink and rips – that will make your next hike less enjoyable.

First, upon returning home, unpack everything, including the pockets. Often items you’ve carried will get wet or dirt and leaves will cling to them that if left alone. This will lead to mildew (for which there is no cure) or a mess in your backpack. If the pack is wet, hang it on a clothesline to dry.

Next, brush off the backpack’s exterior (A plastic bristle brush works well.) and shake it out to remove any debris. As doing so, inspect for any tears or rips. If you identify any, you’ll want to repair them by sewing or patching the breaks. If pine sap is stuck on the backpack, it can be cleaned off with a mild detergent. Also look at buckles, straps and zippers to ensure they are in good shape.

Once done with the cleaning, leave your backpack open (including the pockets) and empty so it can dry it out. Store it in a cool, dry place that is well-aired and out of the sun.

Don’t throw your backpack into the washer and dryer or iron it. Doing so damages any polyurethane coating that waterproofs the fabric.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Five modifications to improve a backpack

Despite that there are hundreds of backpack styles out there, ranging in size, color, pocket placement and more, often no single one quite matches what you’re seeking. Before heading out on the trail, you may want to alter your backpack so it better fits your needs and maybe even slightly lighter.

You can make any number of modifications from simply taping excess strap so it doesn’t unravel to trimming every ounce of extra weight so you can go ultralight.

Here are some common modifications hikers make to their backpacks:
• Equipment straps and loops – Cut off extra loops for gear you never carry. For example, if you're not a mountain climber, there’s no need for the ice axe loops.
• Haul loop – The haul loop often isn't very comfortable to carry. Fold the loop’s top in half then stitch it to allow for an easier grip.
• Pockets – Sometimes pockets aren’t in easy to reach places. You can sew new ones on at just about any spot you desire. The new pocket need not be fancy; just sew three sides of a piece of fabric onto the backpack then add Velcro strips to secure the top.
• Straps/webbing – Clip off or electrical tape the extra webbing from the hip belt and other adjustment straps. This prevents them from coming undone during a hike. Clipping lowers your weight slightly but does limit the backpack’s usability should you gain muscle or weight.
• Zipper pulls – If a backpack has metal zippers, consider replacing the pulls with cloth ribbons. The metal can get cold in wet weather and low temps.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to put on a backpack for your hike

Putting on a backpack starts with standing it upright.

A loaded backpack is not only heavy but awkward to put on your back. Trying to twist your arms through the shoulder straps can prove difficult and result in an improperly placed pack – which in turn can lead to shoulder and back discomfort during and after the hike.

Properly putting on a backpack consists of a few simple steps.

First, set your loaded pack upright and then with one hand grab it by the haul loop (Unfamiliar with a backpack’s parts? Here’s a primer).

Next, widen your stance, bend your knees, and slide the pack up one of your thighs.

Slip your free arm through one of the shoulder straps. Bring the pack as far on the shoulder as it will go.

Lean forward, swing the pack onto your back, and slip your other arm through the open shoulder strap.

Secure the backpack by buckling the hip belt, then stand up straight.

Now you can tighten the various straps. Begin by cinching down the shoulder straps. Next, tighten or loosen the load adjuster straps (aka load lifter strap as needed. Finally, adjust and buckle the sternum strap.

You’re now ready to hit the trail!

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to pack a backpack for a day hike

How you load your backpack can save you a lot of aches and pains,
both on the trail or long after the hike is over.

Many backpackers just toss their gear into their bag and go. While that may not seem like a big deal for a short day hike in which the backpack rarely is full, it actually can result in all kinds of problems – mostly discomfort but ultimately sore shoulders and back that last well beyond the hike. It also can ensure you don’t forget any items as you take the time to organize what you’ll pack. In short, whether day hiking or going on a long-distance hike, loading the backpack properly will save you a lot of aches and pains later.

Proper packing largely depends on properly distributing the pack’s weight.

With an internal-frame pack, begin by placing lightweight objects at the pack’s bottom. Then place the heaviest objects in the center so that they would sit between your shoulder blades and next to your back. Lightweight objects (clothing, sleeping bag, small items) surrounding them and facing outward about halfway up. Set the medium-weight objects (first-aid kit, water filter, stove) at the top and also around the heaviest items (tent, cooking equipment). Using this approach ensures the weight is placed on the hips, reducing shoulder and back soreness.

An external-frame pack is a bit different. As with an internal-frame, you want to place lightweight objects at the bottom. Next, place the medium-weight objects in the bag. The heaviest objects go in next but about halfway down on the side of the back closest to your back and partially surrounded by medium-weight objects. This also helps place the weight on your hips.

As packing, fill in empty spaces. For example, if you pack a pot, fill it full of rolled up socks or T-shirts. Doing this means you’ll have more space in your pack for more items and that you won’t be lugging air (The empty space in that pot isn’t a vacuum, after all!).

Any items that you will need to access frequently or quickly ought to be placed in the pouches on the backpack’s exterior or at the top. Among these items are navigational tools such as maps, compass or GPS, insect repellent, trail mix, first-aid kit and rainwear.

Finally, be careful of how the items are placed in the backpack. Make sure sharp-edged items aren’t pressed against the backpack’s side, especially if it will press against your body. You’ll find a tent stake point or a first-aid kit’s corner poking your back at every step extremely uncomfortable.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

When is weight of your backpack important?

Knowing your backpack's weight before you load it with gear is useful.

When purchasing a backpack, you may notice on the tag a measurement given for “weight.” Understanding a little about why this number is important and how it applies to you can help you make the best decision about which backpack to buy.

First, this measurement typically refers to the pack’s weight, not the weight of how much can be carried in it. It typically is given in pounds.

For most day hikers, the weight of the backpack isn’t a significant number. On the trail, you’ll probably carry a light load (no tent, no sleeping bag, no cooking wear and much less water and food than a backpacker planning to stay out overnight) that won’t fill the pack.

For long-distance hikers and those camping out, the backpack’s weight is vital to know. There are limits to how much a person can carry – someone in good health shouldn’t lug more 20 percent of their body weight while a fit, experienced backpacker shouldn’t go over 25 percent – so an extra pound on your pack might mean a pound less of food or water that you take into the wilds. Determine how much you can carry, subtract the weight of the items you’re bringing with you, and factor into that the weight of your pack. You may need to cut items or buy gear that weighs less – gear such as your backpack.

If buying a daypack for children, the pack’s weight also is an important factor. Lacking the broad shoulders of an adult, too heavy of a backpack can injure a kid. For elementary-age children, a daypack should weigh roughly 18 ounces. This ensures children can’t carry so heavy of a load that they hurt themselves.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Lighter pack a great reason to day hike

Consider traveling light by opting to instead day hike.

Many day hikers – especially former backpackers – tend to believe they should pack more the farther away the trail is from civilization and the longer the distance they plan to traverse. There is some logic to this, primarily safety considerations if one gets lost on a trail.

Among the reasons to day hike, however, is to avoid a heavy backpack. If you’ve properly prepared for a hike by examining a trail map before setting out and then checking your location against that map and a compass as walking, the odds are low against getting lost on a day hike.

Indeed, day hiking with its lighter pack offer many benefits over backcountry hikes with the heavier load:
• Increased comfort – A day hike means there’s no need for camping and cooking gear and lower amounts of potentially heavy items, such as food and water. The lighter the backpack, the less digging into the shoulders. Less exertion is needed with every step.
• Better for the body – A lighter pack results in less wear and tear on joints and muscles and helps prevent aggravation of old injuries.
• Cover more ground – Lighter packs allow you to go farther per hour and across more difficult terrain with greater ease than if you were lugging about a heavy backpack with overnight gear.
• Helps the environment – The lighter your backpack, the less weight each footfall will have on the trail, preventing damage the boot might do to sensitive ground. This is particularly true when in the desert, when on muddy ground, and when crossing scree.

The upshot: If looking to loosen your load, consider going on a day hike.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Know parts of backpack to make best buy

Backpacks come in an array of styles to meet hikers' different needs.

Packs can consist
of several varying
components

If purchasing a backpack for the time, it likely will look like a mad array of straps, clips and buckles. Knowing the parts of a backpack can help you overcome that confusion so you can make the best decision when buying this important piece of hiking equipment.

At its most basic, a backpack really is nothing more than a sack. On modern backpacks, the sack is the main compartment in which you store clothing, supplies and gear. A component of the sack is the lid, or the flap that covers the sack's open top; sometimes the lid is called the brain. Another element of the sack are compression straps, which sit on the outside of the backpack and can be tightened so that the sack is more compact; this helps prevent items in the sack from shifting so that you can maintain better balance when walking.

A backpack next consists of a few straps to make that sack easier to carry. All backpacks will include shoulder straps, or thick loops that your arms slip through and that rest on the shoulders. More sophisticated backpacks include a load adjuster strap (aka load lifter strap) on the shoulder strap to lengthen or shorten it for a better fit. Larger volume backpacks also include an adjustable sternum strap that connects the two shoulder straps across the chest. The sternum strap helps prevent the backpack from jiggling and sliding as you step. In addition, larger backpacks include a hip belt (aka a waist belt). The hip belt shifts the weight of the backpack from the shoulders to the hips for better balance and comfort. Stabilizer straps on the hip belt allow you to tighten or loosen the hip belt. Equipment straps also can be found on some backpacks. They are used to hold items - ranging from a geology hammer to a sleeping mat or sleeping bag - to the pack’s exterior.

Most backpacks include pockets (aka compartments or storage pouches) as well. These are handy for storing water bottles/canteens, maps, sleeping bags, and other gear you want to be able to quickly reach.

Loops also are common on backpacks. These are good for hooking carabiners to. One special loop is the pack handle (aka haul strap), which can be used for carrying the backpack with your hand. It appears on the backpack’s top, usually behind the lid. Another special set of loops is a daisy chain, a series of external stitches for hooking gear to.

A lumbar pad often is added to the lower part of the backpack where the ends of the hip belt meet. This can prevent the backpack from rubbing against the lower back when hiking.

A hydration packtube also is popular in newer backpacks, especially those made for children. Sitting inside the backpack, the packtube takes the place of a water bottle/canteen. A tube connected to the packtube acts as a straw.

The frame is an important element in backpacks meant for longer hikes. A majority of backpacks contain an internal frame that gives the backpack its shape. If you purchase an external frame backpack, however, you’ll also need to get an external frame to hold the backpack and to strap to your body.

When purchasing a backpack, go for the simplest one that best meets your needs. For example, if you’re only day hiking and not camping, there’s no need to buy a backpack with a compartment that holds a sleeping bag. If you already have a canteen that will nicely fit into a backpack’s reachable pocket, there’s no need to buy a backpack with a hydration pack.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Consider waist size when purchasing backpack for day hikes

Getting the right wait size can maximize comfort on your hike.
Photo courtesy of Photoree.

When purchasing a backpack, among the measurements to consider is the waist size, which often is referred to as hip size. The waist size isn’t as important as the backpack’s fit (aka torso length), but different body shapes may require a larger or smaller hip belt (aka a waist belt) to ensure comfort.

To measure your waist size, starting at your belly button wrap a tape measure around the top of your hips. This is a higher point than where the top of your pants sit, so your pants’ waist size likely will be a little different than the backpack’s waist size.

Next, check the backpack tag to see that it matches your waist size. If you’ve got the right waist size, the belly button will be at the center of the hip belt when you wear backpack.

Sometimes a backpack model, regardless of its torso length, comes in only one hip belt size. Usually manufacturers provide hip belts that can be switched out, however.

Troubleshooting hip belt issues
Hip belt covers the hip bones or slides below them
Try tightening the hip belt. If that doesn’t help, the hip belt is too long and needs to be replaced with a shorter one.

Hip belt rests on lower back rather than sides of hips
The belt is too short. Lengthen it, and if that doesn’t work, replace it with a longer one.

Hip belt’s pocket is behind your arms when they hang at your side.
The belt is too short. Lengthen it, and failing that, replace it with a longer belt.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Get right fitting backpack for your day hike

A good-fitting backpack first requires that you know your torso size.
Photo courtesy of dreamstime.

When purchasing a backpack, you’ll need to find the right size. Known as fit, it's typically measured by your torso size, or in inches; some companies will generalize the torso sizes and list them as small-medium-large.

To determine your torso size, you'll need a tape measure and someone who can take the measurement for you. Measure your back from the vertebrae at the neck’s base to the point in the small of your back that is level with the top of the hipbones. The neck's base is the 7th cervical vertebra and easily can be found simply by tilting your head forward; the vertebra will be a bony bump. The top of the hipbones can be found by placing your hands on your hips; the space between your thumbs and fingers is the spot to measure from.

Once you've measured between those two points, write down the number. While shopping for backpacks, check the backpack tags to determine which ones will be the best fit.

Usually, for men extra small sizes are good for a torso size of up to 15.5 inches. A small fits 16-17.5 inch torsos. Medium or regular is good for 18-19.5 inches. Large or tall fits torsos that are 20 inches and up. Always remember that companies do vary in their sizes, and a small for a man means a something entirely different than a small for a woman.

Always fit yourself for a backpack before buying it. Select one that rides comfortably on your back, that doesn’t chafe, and that doesn’t stress the shoulders and pull on your neck. When fitting it, load it lightly with about 15-20 pounds of gear. Stores usually have pillows and sacks for doing this. Adjust the straps. The shoulder straps should be snug but allow your arms to move freely while the hip belt should rest comfortably on your hipbones. Next, look for padded straps and a padded waist belt for comfort and sewed joints to ensure sturdiness.

If properly sized:
g There will be no gap between the straps and the shoulders, and the load lifter anchor point will be at the collar bone.
g The hip belt will sit over the pelvic bones
g The sternum strap will sit between the chest and collarbone, and it won't slip outward during scrambles uphill. A sternum strap that is too low will restrict chest expansion and hence your breathing.
g The backpack and its parts, when you walk, will not alter your natural posture, balance or movement.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Use length, season of hike to determine backpack’s volume

A variety of factors determine what size of backpack you'll need to carry.
Photo courtesy of Dreamstime.

One number you’ll see on backpacks when purchasing them is their volume. This tells how much space is available in the backpack’s sack and its pockets. The number typically is given in cubic inches or liters.

How many cubic inches you’ll need depends on how long you’ll be hiking and the season in which the hike will occur. Generally, the longer the hike and the cooler the temperature, the more you’ll need. That’s because you’ll probably require changes of clothing, sleeping bag, tent, more food, and other supplies. When the weather is cooler, such as in early spring and late autumn, or downright chilly as during winter, the sleeping bag and tent probably will be thicker as well.

For example, a summer day hike may require a backpack with only 1500-2000 cubic inches (25-35 liters) capacity. But that number can rise to 2000-2500 cubic inches (35-40 liters) for spring/fall and to 2500-3500 cubic inches (40-55 liters) in winter.

Just spending 1-2 nights camping out on your hike can dramatically increase the volume you’ll need. In summer, you’ll require a backpack equal to that you would’ve used while day hiking in winter, or 2500-3000 cubic inches (40-50 liters). A spring/fall hike requires 3000-3500 cubic inches (50-55 liters) while winter demands 4000-5000 cubic inches (65-80 liters).

From there, the volume needed increases at a lower rate the longer one spends in the wilderness. That’s because the extra time on the trail really only necessitates more food and clothing.

For example, a 3-5 night backpacking trip in summer usually demands a volume of 3000-4000 cubic inches (50-65 liters), in spring/fall 4000-5000 cubic inches (65-80 liters), and in winter more than 5000 cubic inches (80-90 liters).

A backpacking trip of five nights or more in summer requires a volume of 4000-5000 cubic inches (65-80 liters), and in spring, fall and winter more than 5000 cubic inches (80-90 liters).

Measurements are given as a range because the larger a person is, usually the more food he’ll eat while his clothing is a bigger size, both requiring more space.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Which backpack is best for your hike?

There are three major types of  backpacks, including the internal frame
(above). Photo courtesy of bjwebbiz/Photoree.

Most common
among backpacks
are frameless
or pack frame

When selecting a backpack for a hike, you’ll find there are many different types, each offering its own positives and negatives. Choosing the right kind will help ensure you are best prepared to handle the trail.

Generally, there are two types of hiking backpacks – frameless and pack frame, the latter of which can be divided into two kinds, external and internal.

A frame is a structure, usually made of aluminum or another lightweight metal alloy, that gives a backpack its shape. It helps redistribute the weight of a backpack more evenly across the body by transferring much of it from the shoulders to the hips and legs. All of this lowers the chance of injury while allowing a hiker to carry more weight farther.

Some hikers prefer to forgo a frame, however, as it adds weight and size to the backpack. Since their hikes are short and very little is carried in the backpack, dispensing with the added weight and bulky shape of a pack frame is a positive tradeoff.

Frameless
The simplest of backpacks, a frameless model typically is held to the body only with shoulder straps and have few if any exterior pockets. It usually cannot carry loads of more than 30 pounds without affecting a hiker’s posture or restricting the upper body’s range of motion. Because of this, it is the preferred pack of ultralight backpackers and mountaineers. They also are inexpensive, making them a favorite of day hikers. Frameless backpacks used by day hikers usually are called daypacks, as they are not large enough to hold sleeping bags or tents.

External frame
An external frame consists of a skeletal structure to which a frameless backpack is attached. Backpacks also can be purchased already attached to an external frame. Either way, they typically include a hip belt to help redistribute the weight from the shoulders to the legs and hips.

This type of backpack prevents the frame from touching the hiker’s back and creates a space between the sack connected to the frame and the hiker’s back, allowing for air flow. Both result in increased comfort. It also is more customizable so that loads can be arranged to meet the hiker’s preference or even more unique items – such as pets – can be carried. The downside is that the backpack connecting to an external frame usually is smaller than those with an internal frame, though items (such as sleeping bags and mats) can be attached to the external frame itself.

Internal frame
In this type, the skeletal frame is placed inside the sack itself. It also usually comes with a hip belt.

Its primary advantage is that loads are less likely to shift within the backpack than they would in an external frame model. This is useful when crossing rocky terrain. Many hikers also prefer the snug fit to the back that it offers. An internal frame further allows the backpack to come with more exterior pockets so that gear can be compartmentalized, making items easier to find when hiking. The sack portion of an internal frame also is larger than on an external frame, allowing the hiker to carry more.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Get backpack with padded hip belt for heavy loads, long distances

A padded hip belt on a backpack will go a long way to
making a hike more comfortable. Photo courtesy of
el neato/Photoree

If carrying heavy loads or going long distances, a padded hip belt on a backpack is a must for most hikers, even if just day hiking.

A padded hip belt will help shift the weight of the pack from the shoulders to the hip by as much as 90 percent. The shoulders then primarily stabilize the load.

Since hips are stronger than shoulders and the weight now sits near the body’s center of mass, a hiker using a backpack with a padded hip belt will enjoy a number of benefits. Foremost among them is reduced back and shoulder pain. Another major benefit is better balance and increased agility, which is helpful on rugged terrain. All of this adds up to being able to handle longer distances or hours on the trail.

Just how much is a heavy load and a long distance, though? Usually a minimum of 10 pounds in a backpack is considered a heavy load. Anything longer than three miles is a long distance, though that number can go decrease if you have a lot of elevation gain or are hiking at a high altitude. Of course, the more fit you are, 10 pounds and three miles may still be light and a short distance.

If you carry just a couple of pounds on a fairly flat surface for a mile or two, a standard day pack without a padded hip belt usually is perfectly fine.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to select best backpack size for hike

The best size for your backpack depends on a number of factors.
Photo courtesy of aconat / Photoree. 

When day hiking, you’ll almost always want to wear a backpack. This ensure you have much needed supplies – a first-aid kit, your maps, a snack – during the hike. You probably won’t need the loaded-to-the-hilt backpack you see hikers carrying in national magazines, though.

Which backpack size you choose largely depends upon your needs. There are several questions to consider when selecting a backpack size that best serves you.

How much will you carry?
The more you carry, the larger (and heavier) your backpack must be. Usually on a day hike, you won’t need to take as many items as when on a backcountry hike (For example, day hikers don’t need a tent, sleeping bag or bedroll.), so a smaller (and lighter) pack is sufficient. Also, when packing, you’ll want to ensure there’s a little extra space at the top of the bag, so take that into consideration as well.

How long will you hike?
If going several miles (Some hikers walk as much as 12-15 miles on a day hike), you’ll want a backpack with a frame, as it better supports the gear’s weight and balances better on you your back. A short walk of up to four miles likely won’t require a frame.

How much do you like to compartmentalize?
A smaller, lighter pack has fewer storage pouches than a larger, heavier backpack, so you’ll find yourself tossing almost everything into a single “bag,” requiring you do some digging should you need an item. Ironically, the larger the pack, usually the easier finding stuff is (because items are allocated to specific pouches).

Your best bet is to try out several backpacks at the store to see which one fits best. If you can’t decide between two of them, go with the lighter pack. Should it not be sufficient, you always can purchase a larger size and keep the smaller pack for shorter hikes and those hiking with you (such as your teenage children).

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

How to reduce your backpack’s weight

When day hiking, you have the luxury of going light. While you still ought to carry a daypack with canteen, first-aid kit, map and compass, snack and a few other minor items, you can dispense with the heavy loads backpackers must carry so they can stay out overnight for several days.

Still, a daypack quickly can get heavy, especially if you’re responsible for several children, if you’re going a distance that will require four or five hours to complete, or if you’re heading deep into the wilds, especially one that is inhospitable.

Fortunately, there are some ways you reduce your daypacks weight:
g Bring only what is needed to be safe – The challenge here is to balance need vs. want. Always ask yourself, “Will I be okay without it, even if lost?” and “Have I used it on a past hike?” If you answer “no” to both questions, you probably can leave it home.
g Go with a lighter option – Cutting even a few ounces out of your daypack can make a big difference if walking more than couple of miles. When purchasing gear, opt for the lighter version.
g Economize, economize, economize – Rather than take foodstuffs in the air- and carton-filled packages they came in at the grocery store, repackage them in re-sealable bags. Rather than take the whole box of Band-Aids, only take a few.
g Choose items serving multiple purposes – Instead of bringing both a rain jacket and a small tarp, go with a poncho, which can be used for either staying dry or as ground cover.
g Delegate, delegate, delegate – If your children are in their teens, they’re old enough to carry some of the gear as well. Get them a daypack but don’t overload it…they probably can’t carry near as much as you.
g Cut off extra gear – A lot of times daypacks and fanny packs come with unnecessary attachments, like pockets and super long straps. If they don’t detach, consider cutting them off.

By taking these few steps, you’ll quickly reduce the weight of your daypack so that you can enjoy the hike rather than suffer the distraction of aching shoulders.

Read more about day hiking with children in the guidebook Hikes with Tykes.