How to Pack a Gregory Z65 Backpack

The Gregory Z65 is a mid-size backpack designed for two- to three-day trips. The Z65 is a top-loading pack with waist strap pockets and a floating top that allows adjusting on the fly. In addition to the internal pockets, there are ice ax loops and daisy chain on the outside of the pack where other gear can be hung or attached. When packing the Z65, as with any backpack, weight distribution is crucial.

Instructions

1. Un-cinch the top loading portion of the Z65 and push open the top. Place one small layer of soft goods on the pack bottom. Use one layer of lightweight long underwear or some extra hats or gloves.

2. Fill your hydration bladder and thread it into the bladder-sleeve on the inside back of the pack. Thread the hydration hose to the shoulder strap on the side where you wish to have access to the fluid hose.

3. Place heavy objects such as bear canisters -- cylindrical tubes that hold food or scented items -- symmetrically along the bottom and sides of the pack. It is important to keep heavy items toward the bottom of the pack so your waist supports the bulk of the pack's weight.

4. Pack soft items around the heavy objects to secure them in place and to distribute the extra gear or clothing. Pack your extra fleece layer or down parka around the heavy objects. On the top of this, place your stuffed sleeping bag. The sleeping bag is usually one of the lighter items carried. Cinch down the pack and bring the top up and clip it to the pack.

5. Lash your sleeping pad to the gear loops on the outside of the Z65. Tighten the pad to the pack via the tightening straps on the gear loops. Place flasks or bottles into the external pockets of the pack, or use a small carabiner to attach them to the daisy chain.

6. Store headlights, multi-tools and small snacks or energy bars in the waist strap pockets, where you have quick and easy access to them as you hike.

Tips & Warnings

• The majority of a pack's weight should be supported by the waist and not the back or shoulders.

References

• Gregory Packs: Gregory Z65
• The Backpacker: How to Load a Backpack