| A
well-loaded pack takes less energy to carry than one that's
off-balance. It's also much more comfortable.
Assemble all food, water, clothing and other
equipment you intend to carry.
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.
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.
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.
Keep your water bottle separate for easy
access.
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.
Fill the remaining volume with clothing.
The items farthest from your back should be the lightest.
Put maps, books, a flashlight, sunblock and
batteries in the top pocket so you can access them without
breaking stride.
Strap self-contained items like a tent or
a sleeping bag to the outside of the pack, but avoid making
the pack so wide that you can't swing your arms comfortably.
Long straps with buckles are more secure than bungee cords
for holding gear in place.
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.
Backpack
| Choose
a Backpacking rucksack | Load
a Backpack | Wear
a karrimor rucksack |
Buy
a Backpack for a Woman | Buy
a Child's Backpack | Buy
an Internal-Frame Backpack |
