When you’re on the trail, your backpack will carry everything that you need to sustain yourself for days or even weeks in the wilderness. How you pack all those items on a daily basis is going to be important for efficiency and enjoyment.
Packing your bag poorly can lead to painful poking in your back or a lopsided pack, which will be very uncomfortable while you hike. You’ll also find that a poorly packed bag will lead to lots of wasted time.
Every experienced backpacker has their own method for packing their backpack. The more practice you get, the better you’ll become at packing your bag in a way that best fits your style.
When you get really good at it, you’ll know where everything is in your bag, you’ll be able to pack up all your gear quickly, and you’ll rarely have pull an item from the bottom of your bag.
There are a few general rules about packing your backpack:
1. Use hip pockets for items that you’ll need during your hike.
2. Gear that you’ll need in camp should be placed towards the bottom.
3. Gear that you may need during the day should go towards the top.
4. Heavy items should generally be placed close to your back.
5. Lighter items can be placed farther away from your back.
6. Keep your stove fuel away from your food.
7. Keep an equal balance in your pack so one side isn’t heavier than the other.
When you‘re done packing your bag, make sure to tighten any compression straps that seem loose to pull the weight closer to your back.
Always try to avoid hanging extra items from the outside of your pack. They will sway from side to side while you hike which can throw off your balance, can make unwanted noise, and can snag on tree limbs or brush.
Now your bag is packed up efficiently, you’re ready for a fantastic day on the trail.
