Essential items to bring on a day hike

Taking the right items on a hike at the very least can be the difference between comfort and misery. In extreme cases, it can be the difference between life and death.

Start by dressing properly. This usually means layering your clothes to protect against wind and cold but also dressing lightly if out on a hot day. If the trail lacks shade, don a brimmed hat and sunglasses.

A good pair of hiking boots is necessary, though trail runners will work fine on flat terrain without rocks. Sandals or going barefoot are bad ideas. Wool socks work better than cotton ones.

Water is essential. Adults need at least a quart for every two hours hiking. Children need to drink about a quart every two hours of walking and more if the weather is hot or dry. Don’t drink from streams, rivers, ponds and lakes.

Map and compass also are required. Topographical maps work best. GPS is fine, but don’t expect to always have a signal when in remote areas or battery power on a long walk.

A small first-aid kit is extremely beneficial in case of an accident. Make sure it at least has bandages, scissors, medical tape, tweezers, and an antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide, iodine or Betadine.

A quality trekking pole or walking stick is an excellent idea if your trail gains elevation, is uneven, or is wet. A pole reduces stress on your knees and lower back.

Lastly, insect repellent often is a must. Remember that you can sweat off repellent, so bring it with you rather than rely on one slathering when leaving your vehicle.

Other items you might consider bringing is trail mix for long hikes, sunscreen and lip balm if in sunny or windy areas, and your cell phone (and sans that a watch) to keep track of time and for emergency calls.

Must-Have, Can’t-Leave-Behind Hiking Gear

• Compass
• Multi-purpose tool
• Waterproof bags
• Safety whistle
• Trekking pole
• Waterproof matches

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

6 Items to Take on a Hike with Kids

• Baby carrier
• Bandana
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Canteen
• Carabiner
• BONUS: Where to buy gear for day hiking with kids

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

When you might not need a trekking pole

There are a few instances where a trekking pole is unnecessary and might best left at home.

Any flat, wide, short paved trail that you take without wearing a backpack probably doesn’t require a trekking pole if you’re at least in moderately good shape. Striking the trekking pole against asphalt and cement actually can do more harm to your wrist as the pole’s tip can’t penetrate the pavement, creating shock. If you do wear a lightly loaded backpack on such trails, a trekking pole still probably can be dispensed with so long as the distance is under a mile.

A number of day hiking trails at state, county and even national parks fit the description of a “flat, wide, short paved trail,” as they are designed for people to make brief jaunts from their vehicles to some interesting natural feature.

The more elevation gains, the less packed the surface, the longer the distance (especially over a mile), and the heavier your backpack load, however, and the benefits of using a trekking pole far outweigh the inconvenience of having one of you’re your hands occupied by carrying it.

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

Trekking pole offers several benefits on hike

Look at almost any picture or illustration of a hiker, and you’re likely to see a trekking pole in his hands. There’s good reason for that – a trekking pole simply offers too many benefits to be left at home.

First and foremost, a trekking pole helps you maintain your balance when walking. Think of a chair. A three-legged stool always is more stable than a two-legged one. As you move over rough terrain – up and down a hill, across streams or rivers, over scree and rock – a trekking pole provides that third leg. Even if walking on a flat surface, a trekking pole is vital when carrying a backpack, as heavy loads make maintaining your normal, two-legged gait difficult.

Maintaining your balance reduces stress on your back, legs, knees and feet as your cross rough terrain and haul a backpack. The trekking pole always will take pressure off your back and hips, which is particularly important when going uphill. When descending, it greatly reduces shock to your knees and feet.

A trekking pole also can help you maneuver. It’s especially useful in pushing aside brush, spider webs, and other minor obstacles. You can use it to feel the stability of a stream-laden rock before stepping on it. It also can serve as a brace to break your fall.

There are a number of creative uses for a trekking pole as well. For example, if lost and forced to stay a night in the woods, it might be used as a pole to keep up your tarp. You also might employ it in self-defense; while it’s not strong enough to stop an animal, it can be used as a stick to keep the creature at bay.

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.

Which is best? Wood or metal trekking poles

Is a wooden pole better than a metal one for hiking?

When out on the trail, you’ll see hikers usually a variety of trekking poles. Usually though, they are made of one of two materials – wood or metal.

Which one is better to use? The answer depends on a number of factors and your personal preference.

Broadly speaking, a wooden trekking pole has a couple of major advantages over a metal pole (which usually is made of aluminum or carbon fiber). First, it is sturdier. Metal poles tend to be thin and built for lightness and so will bow. A wooden also often is hand carved, so often will be more ornamental, allowing it to express its user’s personality. This admittedly is an aesthetic factor rather than one of performance, but for some hikers that’s significant.

Likewise, a wooden pole also carries some disadvantages. Most notably, what you see is what you get when you buy it. They are not adjustable for your height, and typically there are no add-ons (such as tips or baskets), as there’s no place to attach them, unless you head into a wood shop and start modifying. Another problem is that they are inflexible. They come in one size only – the size you bought it in – so there’s no folding it. That may not sound like a big deal, yet imagine if you decided to take off your jacket but couldn’t fold it and had to carry it exactly in the shape it takes when worn; that would be inconvenient. Wooden poles also tend to be heavier and bulkier than their metal counterparts. They also will disintegrate from the natural elements if made of soft wood; hardwood poles do as well but have a longer life. Wooden poles also lack a shock absorber that the better metal poles will have; if walking long distances or on a rocky surface, that absorber can help reduce stress on your wrist and arm. Lastly, wooden poles’ hand/wrist straps are a single leather loop that can dig into your hands and will wear as exposed to the elements, though often the loop can be easily replaced.

The advantages of a metal pole, as you might imagine, are the disadvantages of a wooden pole. For example, metal poles sold in store are adjustable for your height. You also can easily add on or take off a whole variety of items – such as baskets or tips or camera mounts – to enhance your hiking experience. They also are collapsible and lightweight. They are fairly impervious to the elements unless exposed to salt, such as on oceanside walks. Better models come with a shock absorber. The hand/wrist straps usually are of better material and are wider than a wooden pole’s leather loop so they don’t dig it and they don’t wear as quickly.

Metal poles aren’t perfect, of course. They can break if too much weight is placed on them, though this typically is only a problem with the less expensive, cheaper made models. And as with almost anything that is mass produced, most of them lack any aesthetically unique qualities, though I suppose some people may prefer the manufactured look.

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.

Use single or pair of trekking poles?

Are two poles better than one when hiking? It depends.

Should you use one or two trekking poles on a hike? The answer depends on where you’re hiking and individual preference.

Single pole
Used like a walking staff, a single pole is all that's really needed for a fairly flat surface and a day hike (when you have a light load on your back) to provide you with increased stability and to lessen the impact on your knees. You will want to switch off which hand holds the pole during the hike, however.
Pros
• Ensures you have a free hand
• Some poles with camera mounts and so can double as a monopod
• A lone pole is less expensive than a pair
Cons
• If you encounter rough terrain or a grade, not as beneficial as a pair
• If it breaks on the trail, you're stuck without the benefit of having any trekking pole

Pair of poles
Like ski poles, they are used in tandem. If backpacking (in which you’ll have a heavy load), traveling long distances, or on a rough surface or trail with significant grade, a pair is a far better option than a lone pole.
Pros
• Provides more stability than a lone pole
• Reduces impact on knees (by up to 30 percent with each step) – as well as on ankles, back, hips, shoulders and neck – far more than a single pole ever could
• Descents are safer with two poles rather than one, which creates torque in your spine
Cons
• No free hand
• Cost more than a single pole

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.

Quick precautions before hiking with kids

Once you select a trail for you and your child to day hike, there are a few simple safety precautions to take before ever making that first step on the trail. The chances of something going wrong are slim, but an ounce of preparedness will do much to reduce the burden when you're facing a pound of trouble.

First, map out your route. Using a light, transparent highlighter that won’t obscure details, trace the trail on your map. This will make navigating the path easier once in the field and prevent you from getting lost. Make sure you pack extra maps with your gear.

Next, tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. In case you are injured or lost, this can prove to be valuable information so search and rescue teams can find you sooner.

You also should learn where the nearest hospital or walk-in clinic is located. If an injury occurs, you may need to bring your children there for medical help.

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

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.

Fabrics used to make backpacks offer competing positives, negatives

Most backpacks in the United States today are made of Cordura nylon.

Backpacks are made of different materials, and knowing the pluses and minuses of each can help you decide which fabric is the best for you.

Generally, manufacturers use one of four different fabrics: Cordura nylon; pack cloth; rip-stop nylon; and cotton canvas. The first three are synthetics and the fourth is a natural material.

By far the most common fabric used is Cordura nylon (aka Kodra). Offering a rough and fuzzy texture, it is resistant to abrasion. Since the material used to make backpacks is constantly stretched when the sack is loaded and often rubs against tree branches and rocks, abrasion is a significant issue with backpacks. The downside to Cordura is it is not as puncture resistant or as waterproof as other nylon fabrics.

An alternative is pack cloth. Somewhat shiny and slick to the touch, pack cloth is made from polyester. Its primary benefit is resistance to UV degradation, which can be a problem with backpacks as sunlight causes the polyurethane coating – the waterproofing material used on backpacks – to delaminate. Pack cloth also waterproofs well and is very resistant to punctures. The downside is it is a heavier fabric compared to any of the nylons. While once popular in the United States, today it’s primarily used in Europe and Australia.

A third type of fabric is rip-stop nylon. Made of a grid pattern of heavy threads, it’s stronger than standard nylon and so is unlikely to further rip if the backpack is punctured or torn. The downside is holes are more likely to appear from abrasion. Though common in Europe, in the United States is is mainly found in upmarket backpacks.

The fourth material is cotton canvas. Though rarely found in new backpacks, it was the most common fabric used during the last century. Because of the abundance of used military rucksacks, backpacks made of this material can be readily found as surplus and second-hand stores, making it a very inexpensive option. Cotton canvas, however, needs to be waterproofed, is heavy compared to synthetic materials, and if wet can rot.

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.

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