How to Load a Backpack

A well-loaded pack takes less energy to carry than one that's off-balance. It's also much more comfortable.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water Purifying Tablets
• Swiss Army Knives
• Backpacks
• Camping Cookwares
• Camping Stoves And Fuel
• Plastic Water Bottles
• Sleeping Bags

1. Assemble all food, water, clothing and other equipment you intend to carry.

2. Small items you won't need until you pitch camp can go inside empty spaces, such as the inside of your cooking pot, to take full advantage of space.

3. Load your sleeping bag at the bottom of your pack (if you have an internal-frame pack) or tie it below (if you have an external-frame pack). You won't need it before you pitch camp, and a sleeping bag is light for its volume.

4. Pack heavy items'food, stove, fuel and water'above the sleeping bag and next to your back. Be sure that objects don't protrude into your back.

5. Keep your water bottle separate for easy access.

6. Try to keep the weight evenly distributed from side to side within the pack so that it won't be lopsided when you carry it.

7. Fill the remaining volume with clothing. The items farthest from your back should be the lightest.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep only the items you need handy in the pockets or top flap of the pack. Most packs don't close very well, and a large, unstable load in the top pocket can throw you off balance.
• If your pack doesn't have a special outside pocket for your water bottle, tuck a bottle underneath the top flap on its side and right up against your back.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!

on 2/10/2006 Sew on a matching quick-release buckle to your pack so you can carry a fanny pack in front. Wearing a fanny pack with the buckle in back puts it right between you and your backpack.

on 2/8/2006 In an internal framed pack, I find it more comfortable to load in the heavy food items first. This does two things. First, the heavy items will help sit the pack right in the small of your back, and by not putting the heavy items on top of your sleeping bag you will preserve the loft and add to the life of your bag.

on 11/22/2005 For extended hikes, you may want to wear a fannypack (with the pouch in front) to access frequently used items (i.e. bug juice, binoculars, trail map, snack, camera, lip balm, compass, small knife). It leaves the essentials right at your fingertips!

on 11/22/2005 Always loosen all the straps before taking off your pack. Loosen the hip belt, sternum, load lifters, and shoulder harness. When you remove a loaded pack, the weight will shift, especially if you get something out of the pack. Doing this ensures you get a good fit every time you put the pack back on.

on 11/22/2005 I use a "carrabineer" and attach the water bottle to the front strap of my pack so I can get a drink without removing the pack.