Packing The Gear

Packing Smart: Balance, Weight & Essentials

It’s important to pack just the right amount in your hiking backpack. From clothing to match unpredictable weather, to camp meals, first aid supplies, a tent, and a sleeping bag—everything you bring should serve a purpose.

You can even pack something fun for downtime, like a deck of cards. Just keep in mind: packing too much adds unnecessary weight and can strain your body. Underpacking can result in unpreparedness. That’s why researching your destination is so important—you’ll know exactly what to expect and what to bring.

Get to Know Your Hiking Backpack

Knowing your backpack and how to pack it properly makes a big difference. A well-packed backpack balances weight, keeps your gear organized, and ensures quick access to essentials.

General Guidelines for Packing:

• Bottom Layer:
  Store items you won’t need until camp—like your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, or extra clothing. These heavier, bulky items also help with weight distribution.

• Middle Layer:
  Pack dense items like food, your Jetboil or camp stove, and your water supply. This helps keep the pack’s center of gravity close to your back.

• Top Layer:
  Keep essentials you might need quickly—first aid kit, rain jacket, snacks, or navigation tools.

• External Pockets & Straps:
  Use pockets for quick-access items like a water bottle or map. Straps can hold bulkier gear like your tent, sleeping pad, or sleeping bag if they don't fit inside.

Team Tip: Share the Load

If you're hiking with a group, consider distributing weight evenly. Sharing common items like tents, stoves, or food gear ensures no one is overburdened. Everyone should carry a similar load to keep the pace and energy level balanced.

Carrying Your Hiking Backpack Properly

Wearing your backpack the right way is just as important as packing it correctly. Proper strap adjustment helps distribute weight evenly, reduces strain, and keeps you comfortable on the trail. Follow these steps:

1. Start with the Hip Belt:
   Buckle and tighten the hip strap first—this is key. Your hips should carry most of the pack’s weight, not your shoulders.

2. Tighten the Shoulder Straps:
   Pull the shoulder straps snug, but not too tight. They should bring the pack close to your back without digging in.

3. Adjust the Sternum Strap:
   Buckle the chest (sternum) strap and adjust it to a comfortable position across your chest. This helps stabilize the shoulder straps and reduce shifting while hiking.

4. Compress the Load:
   Use the compression straps around the sides of your pack to tighten everything down. This keeps your gear from shifting and helps the backpack feel more compact and balanced.

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