What to Look for When Choosing a Backpack for Hiking
1. Durability. The construction must be reliable, with seams stitched with quality thread. A backpack tearing apart on the trail can become a major problem.
2. Functionality. For small items that need to be always at hand, side pockets are indispensable.
3. Ergonomics. A padded waist belt helps redistribute a significant part of the weight from your shoulders to your hips, and the presence of a detachable bottom adds useful volume to the backpack.
Modern models are often designed as anatomical backpacks. Their construction with an H-shaped frame follows the curves of the back for maximum comfort. However, all people are different, so when buying such a model, it's important to try on as many options as possible and find the one that perfectly suits your physique. Keep in mind: most such backpacks are designed for men, so women should choose specialized models.
How to Pack Your Backpack Correctly for Hiking
The main rule is to strive for minimal weight. Experienced tourists, whose bodies are adapted to the load, can allow themselves a little more, but it's important for beginners to remember: even a light backpack will start to feel heavy after a few hours on the trail. Take only what you really need, and first and foremost—a first aid kit. With experience, you will learn which items you can do without.
A basic kit for most hikes includes:
• Sleeping bag;
• Tent;
• Cookware and kitchen utensils;
• Change of clothes (must be dry);
• Windbreaker or raincoat;
• Compact photo/video equipment;
• First aid kit;
• Fire-starting equipment;
• Food supplies;
• Water containers;
• Tools (knife, axe, saw).
Before your first hike, be sure to practice packing your backpack at home: unpack and pack your things several times, walk around the apartment with the full set of gear. This skill will quickly become second nature. For reliability, try doing it in the dark or against the clock—this will test how well you remember where everything is. Over time, packing will become automatic.
Key Packing Principles for Hiking:
• Weight. A fully packed backpack should not weigh more than a quarter of your own body weight. Avoid anything unnecessary.
• Fit. Position the backpack on your back as high as possible. This prevents your center of gravity from shifting and stops it from hitting your legs while walking.
• Balance. Distribute the load evenly. Hard and irregularly shaped objects (like boots or cans) should not touch your back.
• Logic. Pack the least frequently used items at the bottom.
• Moisture Protection. Pack all your belongings in sealed bags—even the most expensive backpack does not guarantee 100% protection from water.
• Accessibility. Place essential items (map, sunscreen, water) in side pockets so you don't have to rummage through the entire contents every time.
• During a Break. On short stops, do not take off your backpack. It's better to sit down carefully, leaning against it with your back, or place it on a rock or log and lean against it.
Next guide: Overnight Shelter in the Wild: Tents, Tarps, and Bivouacs Previous guide: How to Protect Your Hands, Head, and Feet on a Mountain Hike You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
