How to Pick Out the Right Pack

Hiking is one the most rewarding and exhilarating experiences that one can experience. For those of us who enjoy things anywhere from short day hikes all the way to multi-night backpacking trips, we know how difficult choosing a backpack can be. For one who is new to hiking, choosing a backpack can be incredibly difficult, or even one who is just looking for a new backpack. Use this guide to help point you in the right direction of a new backpack. Below are the list of things to keep in mind when choosing a bag.

• Kind of Trip

First off, the kind of trip you are going on needs to be taken into thought. Different type of trips have different bags. Are you going mountaineering? Backpacking? Day hike? Kayaking trip? All of these trips require a different kind of bag. A day hiking bag is generally lighter weight than most other types. A mountaineering bag is generally a more heavy duty bag, where all gear and water is designed to be inside the bag. On the other hand, a backpacking bag is usually designed with many straps on the outside to store things such as tents and sleeping bags, so that other gear, such as food, can go on the inside compartment. A  bag designed for kayaking or days on the water is generally going to be waterproof to help protect your gear. Be sure that the bag you get will fit its use!

• Length of Trip

Will you be gone for two hours, two days, or two weeks? Length of trip is incredibly important in terms of choosing a bag. For a backpacking trip, you will need a bag much larger than you will for a short day hike. On average, a pack ranging between 12-35 liters is good for a day trip. For a one to two night trip, look at bags between 35-50 liters. For a 3-5 night trip, a bag between 50-80 liters might suit your excursion. For any more extended trips, a bag of 70+ liters is up your alley. The size ranges for each trip depending on what all you plan on carrying. If you have a big DSLR camera and a tripod, you may want to invest on the bigger side. If you are hiking with children and carrying lunch for the family, you might need a bigger bag. On the other hand, if you are just carrying lunch, water, and a jacket, you can probably get away with a much smaller bag. These are all things to think about when picking up a bag.

• Fit/Features of Pack

Something that may surprise some people is that not all bags fit the same! The same bag that fits one person, may not fit another. Many bags come in sizes, and almost all bags have adjustable straps. The power of online shopping is incredibly powerful, but I highly recommend trying on a backpack before you buy it. Many bags also have special features. Some bags designed for climbing may have extra straps or gear loops, while bags for day hiking may have a spot for a water bladder. These are all reasons to check out a backpack in store rather than just do online shopping.

• Weather Conditions

Are you hiking in the dessert in the middle of summer? Perhaps you are in the rainforest during a storm. Something to keep in mind is how your backpack holds up in the weather. If you might be hiking in the rain, a waterproof bag might be something that is important to you. If you are in the hot sun, a bag that breathes really well that will wick away the sweat from your back might be important.

All factors taken into account, there is no perfect backpack. Every person has different needs that must be catered to. For many adventurers, it takes years to find the perfect bag. My biggest recommendation is to shop around! Don't buy the first bag that catches your eye. Visit as many places and see as many bags as you can. It took me three years of adventuring to find the backpack that I love, and takes many others much longer. Remember, a backpack is one of the most important things when exploring the outdoors!