Whether you've been in the backcountry on numerous occasions or are heading out for the first time, learning how to pack your backpacking pack to fit your unique needs is essential and goes beyond just throwing your gear into your pack. In this guide, we'll explore the essentials of how to pack your backpacking pack by exploring three crucial considerations: how to choose a backpacking pack, reducing your backpacking pack weight, and organizing your bag.
How to Choose a Backpacking Pack
While choosing the right backpacking pack is just one part of properly planning for a backpacking trip, making the right choice will significantly enhance your experience on the trail. Important factors to consider include your gender, the pack’s capacity and its features.
Men’s vs Women’s Packs: Most backpacking packs are highly adjustable and can be made comfortable for bodies of all sizes. However, as a general practice many backpacking packs come in both Men’s and Women’s versions. The frame size for women’s backpacking packs are typically smaller than men’s and creates a more comfortable fit for people with smaller torsos. The smaller frame sizes on women’s backpacking packs can also make them a great option for children of either sex.
Capacity: Choosing a backpacking capacity based on the length and type of trip is essential. Use the guide below to choose a proper pack size for your adventure.
30 - 50L: These packs are good for short overnight trips if you are an extremely efficient packer. We recommend most novice backpackers choose a larger size until you gain a better understanding of your packing preferences.
50 - 70L: Most backpackers opt for this pack size as it is ideal for most overnight trips lasting between 2 - 5 nights. Packs in this range are great for warm weather trips and most cold weather trips if you are an efficient packer.
70L+: These packs are great for more extended overnight trips and cold weather adventures that require additional clothing and / or equipment. These are also great options for trips that require more gear - be it a technical expedition or a family taking their kids along who need to pack more gear to accommodate the children.
Features: If you are buying a backpacking pack for your upcoming trip we recommend comparing the features across brands. Look for features that suit your needs, such as adjustable straps in the shoulders and hips, ventilation systems to keep you cool, water bladder storage, and external attachment points for any additional gear you may have (such as an ice axe, trekking poles or a sleeping pad).
Unless you plan to head into the backcountry frequently, we recommend renting a backpack instead of purchasing a new one. If you do decide to purchase, investing the time in choosing the right pack for your needs before even thinking about packing a backpacking bag will ensure you have the best experience in your adventures ahead.
Reducing your Backpacking Pack Weight
A lighter pack can make a significant difference in your hiking comfort and endurance over the course of the trip. Here are some strategies to reduce pack weight:
Only Bring Necessities: Look at each item on your packing list and evaluate if you can do without it. Every ounce counts when it comes to pack weight. Opt for items that can serve multiple purposes. If you didn’t use an item on a prior trip you went on, consider leaving it behind next time.
Minimize Clothing: Do you really need that extra pair of clothes? One pair for the day and one pair for hanging at the campsite at night should be sufficient. Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing suitable for layering. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture, and opt for synthetic or merino wool fabrics. Along with being more performant, these fabrics also will smell less as your trip progresses.
Split Up Gear Amongst the Group: If you are traveling in a group make sure that you only bring one of every communal item. You most likely don’t need two camping stoves to cook dinner, for example. Split up items as well where possible. Have one person carry the tent poles and another person carry the canopy and rainfly. Have one person carry the stove and another carry the fuel.
Go Ultra Light: If you’re really passionate about cutting down the weight of your pack there is a quickly growing industry of ultra light backpacking equipment for purchase. While significantly reducing your pack weight, this gear can be extremely expensive and is much less durable than regular backpacking gear; so consider accordingly.
Organizing your Backpacking Pack
Organizing your backpack efficiently is crucial for a smooth, enjoyable backpacking experience. A well-organized pack ensures maximum space utilization, even weight distribution, and easy access to essential items. Follow these tips to pack your backpack effectively:
Compartmentalize: Use packing cubes, compression sacks, or ziplock bags to group items by category (e.g., cooking gear, clothing, toiletries). This helps save space and keeps your pack organized.
Pack by Weight Distribution: Place heavier items like your tent and cooking system at the mid-lower section of your backpack, closest to your spine. Store lighter and bulkier items, such as clothing and sleeping bags, towards the top and bottom. Keep frequently-used items, like a rain jacket and snacks, in external pockets for easy access.
Optimizing Space: Fill empty nooks and crannies with smaller items (e.g., stuff socks into cooking pots). Also, consider using a compression sack for your sleeping bag to minimize its size.
Keep Essentials Handy: Outside compartments should contain items needed frequently or in emergencies, such as a map, compass, first-aid kit, headlamp, and water bottle.
Test Your Pack: After packing, give your backpack a test run to ensure it fits comfortably and all items are secure. Make adjustments as needed.
Packing a Backpacking Bag the Right Way is Critical
When thinking about how to pack a backpacking pack, it is paramount that you first choose the right pack for your body type and needs, reduce your overall pack weight where possible, and then organize it efficiently for ease of access and comfort. With these considerations in mind you can pack like a seasoned adventurer and tackle any trail with confidence and comfort.
Happy trails!!