How to Pack a Hiking Backpack

 

 

Hiking backpack needs to consider a few tips to maximize storage space. Organize your items by using accessory pockets and a haul loop. The smaller your pack is, the more room you will have for other items. Then, choose your size, keeping in mind the center of gravity and weight distribution. These factors will help keep your gear organized and minimize your body’s impact. Follow these tips to get the most out of your hiking backpack.

Accessory pockets are designed to be easily accessible

According to Jakob Wissel, it is essential to consider the weight and bulk of your gear. Choosing a larger or smaller pack may be better suited to the type of hiking you intend to do. For example, if you plan to camp out in the desert, a small overnight pack is the perfect solution. A larger pack may not be as practical for a longer hike, but will be more comfortable if you don’t bring bulky camping gear.

Some popular backpacks have separate compartments for sleeping bags and toilet paper. These compartments are useful for keeping dirty socks and shoes out of your other gear. Besides sleeping bag compartments, many hiking backpacks also have side pockets for items like sunglasses, hats, and other gear. Other pockets may hold water, snacks, and other essentials. However, many backpacks have compartments for these items, but you should still leave some space for other gear.

Most hiking backpacks feature an easy-access hip belt pocket that is perfect for storing small items. These pockets are typically large enough to hold small items like energy bars, lip balm, a pocket knife, and a camera. Many packs have two or four side pockets. These are usually used for water bottles, but they can also be used to store camping gear such as tent poles and fishing rods. Some backpacks even have pockets that stretch out to accommodate crunchable snacks.

Jakob Wissel thinks that another type of accessory pocket is the “shove-it” pocket, which is a large exterior mesh pocket that is easy to access. This type of pocket is perfect for quick access items, but it may not be the best option for wet items. The minimalist design might not be ideal for you, but it’s worth checking out to ensure there are enough pockets to accommodate all of your belongings.

Organizing your gear

When packing a hiking backpack, you’ll find yourself wishing you could declutter your living room and create an organized chaos. It will be easier to find items if you arrange your gear in logical groups. You can even make a list and cross off items that you won’t need. Also, make sure to separate the essentials from the non-essentials so you don’t have too much of one thing.

Ideally, your backpack will have a lower side pocket for your water bottle. These pockets are ideal for keeping things like a 1-liter water bottle. Keep items you’ll need during breaks near the top of the backpack. Make sure to put your food and bear canister above these pockets. Also, keep items you’re likely to get wet near the top of the main compartment, so they’re out of the way of the rest of your stuff. In addition, you’ll want to make sure your wet items are outside the main compartment so you can easily pull them out during sunny breaks.

Using a haul loop

When using a haul loop to pack a hiking bag, you will want to avoid picking up your pack by the straps. Not only is this a bad idea, but it can also tilt your pack, which is not good for your back. Instead, use a haul loop to hold your pack on your thigh, allowing you to keep it close to your torso and under control. The key is to put your arm through the strap of the haul loop and lean slightly forward. You can also use your arm to adjust the fit of the strap to your body.

Once you have secured the backpack, you can start moving it onto your back. To do this, you need to get into the proper position. Stand with your feet wider than your shoulders and bend your knees slightly. Then, place your arm through the haul loop and slowly shift your pack onto your back. Then, rest your elbow on the haul loop and continue to move the pack. You will be glad you did this.

Using a canister

If you’re an ultralight hiker, you might be considering using a bear canister. Many national parks are following suit, and the IGBC has a list of approved products. However, if you’re a minimalist, this method is not for you. It’s not only better for the environment, but it also keeps bears out. Plus, bears don’t care about the contents of your hiking backpack as much as you do.

Jakob Wissel feels that bears are resourceful creatures, and they’re relentless when it comes to hunting human food. They can chew through cords, snap branches, and more. Therefore, you should place your bear canister in the center of your hiking backpack. During the night, turn it upside-down to prevent any leakage, and put it in an open area a hundred feet from your campsite. You can also use reflective stickers to attract the attention of bears and deter them from grabbing your food.