Camping Backpacks
Planning a
hike, a
backpack! Your pack will be your constant companion on your travels, so make sure you purchase one that meets your needs. Since packs can vary widely in price and features, take a minute to consider what you need. The two most important factors to consider in a backpack are size and fit. Read on for more information below.
Size
This
ConsumerSearch guide estimates what volume you'll need for a given trip length:
* '''750-3,000 cubic inches''': Mainly for day trips, but you might want to pack one inside your week pack.
* '''3,000-4,000 cubic inches''': Small bag, good for light packers for the weekend or overnight trips that need more gear.
* '''4,000-5,000 cubic inches''': A few days or a long weekend.
* '''5,000long trips or trips when you might need to carry extra gear.
* '''6,000+ cubic inches''': Very large bags, good for a week or more.
Of course, if you need to carry more gearyou should probably get a bag larger than these estimates suggest.
Fit
* Measure your torso size (from your seventh vertebra in your neck down to your hips). Most torsos are between 18 and 22 inches long.
* Next, measure the width of your chest and hips.
* The hip belt should rideat your hips. If it rides higher up at the waist, it will not be as supportive.
* The shoulder straps should meet the pack just below the crest of your shoulders and fit the curves of your back, neck and shoulders.
* You should have enough room to look up unencumbered.
* Look for adjustable or removable straps. Even with a properly fitting pack, you may need to adjust the fit based on what you're wearing or carrying.
Features
There are a few things to look for in the construction of your bag:
* '''Lacing''': Strong lacing and fabric (
nylon never fails).
* '''Padding''': Well no one likes a sweaty back or things poking into them.
* '''Space''': Make sure you appropriate storage space with have hydration pack/
jackets when you no longer need them.
* '''Weight''': You don't want the pack to add unnecessary weight, and it should sit properly on your back so that you aren't hunched over.
* '''Waterproof''': If you anticipate inclement weather, buy a bag that is waterproof and has inner pockets for things that can't get wet, and remember to go over the bag with
waterproofing spray before use.
* '''Tearstop nylon; reinforced seams are good.
* '''Zippers''': Make sure they are either reinforced or double zippers, In case one fails.
* '''
duct tape.
Types
Extra Tips
* If you are bringing children or animals, consider what you will need to carry for them. You may want a
backpack carrier for your toddler.
* If you bringing electronics, pick a bag that allows you
camera or
GPS.
* If you are going where there will be lots of people, animals and/or brush in your path, consider a
smaller pack. The bulkier the pack, the harder it is to get by in tight situations. You don't want to get caught up in a tree.
* Pick the most
compact bag possible. Remember it's your back that has to carry it, unless you have a pack mule in the yard.
* Pick a bag that can handle wear and tear if you are the roughtough type.
* Some backpacks have locking functions, which are a good deterrent if you are concerned with theft. But if you plan to leave the pack alone for a long period of time, it won't help.
* For women especially, be sure to get a pack that fits your frame. Although all camping packs are unisex, bags designed specifically for
women tend to be more comfortable, especially for petite ladies.
Related Guides
*
Sports and Recreation
*
Backpacks
*
Men's Outerwear
*
Hiking Boots
*
Outdoors
!
