Backpacking: Your Next Adventure

AND THEN I BACKPACKED AROUND EUROPE Tips and tricks for optimizing the space in your hiking backpack FIRST THING'S FIRST: DOES SIZE MATTER? YES! The size of your pack may be dependent on the length of your trip and the weight you want to carry RULES OF THUMB 1-3 nights 3-5 nights 5+ nights 35-50 50-70 70+ LITRE CAPACITY Litres Litres Litres BACKPACK SIZE VS BODY SIZE TORSO LENGTH Your pack should match your torso length, not your overall height - It should rest comfortably on your hips WAIST SIZE 80% (or more) of the pack weight will be supported by your hips - The hip belt on your pack should be snug (but not tight) around your waist ARE YOU PLANNING TO FLY WITH YOUR PACK? IF YOU WANT YOURPACK AS A CARRY-ON CHECK THE AIRLINE'S SIZE LIMITS BEFOREHAND DON'T TRY TO GET AWAY WITH ANOVERSIZED PACK MAKE SURE YOU FOLLOW THE RULES REGARDING LIQUIDS NEXT DECISION: INTERNAL OR EXTERNAL FRAME? ANTERNAL 1) WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION - FLEXIBLE - Can make packing more challenging - Cannot have additional attachments 2) NOT MANY INDIVIDUAL COMPARTMENTS 3 - Keeps the weight closer to your core for support - Helps with support for shoulders, waist and back 3 COMFORT - Sits closer to the body - Makes it slightly better for maintaining balance over rough terrain 4) MANEUVERING - Is less bulky with narrower straps - Provides more freedom for moving arms EXTERNAL (1) WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION – RIGID - Supports heavy loads well -Does not rely on as many support points (2 LOTS OF INDIVIDUAL COMPARTMENTS - Makes packing easier - Allows for additional attachments 3 COMFORT - Sits slightly away from the body - Allows for better airflow ) MANEUVERING - Has wider straps and more overall bulk Cuts down maneuverability PACKING ORDER - WHAT GOES WHERE AND WHY? BACKPACK COMPONENTS TOP-LOADING --------- --- OPENING FRONT PANEL SIDE ZIPPER SLEEPING BAG COMPARTMENT (SOME) BOTTOMS UP-WHAT SHOULD YOU PACK FIRST? - Things you won't need right away such as: • Extra clothing/underwear • Sleeping bag (if your pack does not have a specified compartment) • Pajamas • Pillowcase • Rolled sleeping pad (if you plan to do some camping) • Other items you only need at night TRAIL MIX THE CENTRE OF BALANCE TOPPING IT OFF..AND A LITTLE ON THE SIDE - A zippered top lid is excellent for small hiking gear. - It's also great for items you need frequently, including: • Maps • Bug spray . Cотрass • Sunglasses • GPS • Headlamp or flashlight • First-aid kit • Rain gear, including pack cover - The core of your pack is best for heavy items. - You need to create balance here. • Packing heavy at the bottom causes sagging • Packing heavy at the top could cause you to fall forward - On top of the sleeping bag; next to your spine: • Food (trail mix, dried fruit, jerky, etc.) • Water - Hiking backpacks often have a variety of side pockets, loops and straps. • The elasticized straps are great for trekking poles • The external loops are perfect for hooking on a camera • The daisy chain loops can be used for small, clipped on items Tip: Wrap your jacket around these items to keep them packed tightly on your day trek. Tip: Don't carry too much on the exterior as these items are more likely to get caught or fall off. WHO'S READY FOR A GREAT ADVENTURE? Sources rei.com/learn/expert-advice/loading-backpack.html traveltips.usatoday.com/internal-frame-vs-external-frame-backpacks-61844.html cntraveler.com/galleries/2013-05-16/photos-worlds-best-hikes-hiking-trails/4 rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpack.html traveltips.usatoday.com/transport-backpack-airplane-102855.html Cheapflights> N NOWSOURCING ד! Ш T'IL 00 LШ םיד