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Camping Gear - How to Choose the Right Backpack
Going camping? Likely you'll need
some sort of backpack to carry your gear whether it's
for a daytime hike or a long journey. Choosing the right
backpack is essential for comfort and practicality.
Choose the wrong pack and you may find yourself unable
to keep up with your hiking partners, excessively fatigued
and sore or otherwise distracted from the enjoyment
of your outing. What are the keys to choosing the right
backpack?
SIZE:
The size of backpack you choose will
depend on the nature of your trip. Are you taking a
day trip through a local park or going into the mountains
for a few weeks? What equipment or comforts do you need
to take with you?
If you select a bag that is too big
for your needs you will tend to overpack which will
tire you out faster. Choose a bag according to what
you must carry. Assemble the gear you require to determine
the size of bag you need.
Manufacturers use different terms for
size. What may be a large in one brand could be a medium
in another. You will have a better idea of size based
on the litre capacity or cubic inches listed.
FIT:
Do you want an internal or external
frame? Will you need a hipbelt? What kind of padding
is provided?
Internal framed backpacks fit snugly
against the body. They are counterbalanced with hipbelts
and sternum straps. Look for good quality padding on
the shoulders and hip belt to prevent chaffing and creating
sore points. The internal framed backpack should fit
the torso of the user. Women and children will usually
need short torso fits. Men should measure for fit since
torso length is not always relative to height.
External frames hold the pack away from
the body. They are cooler to wear in hot weather but
are less stable and not a good choice for hiking in
less than ideal conditions that require balance, climbing,
skiing or managing rough trails.
MATERIAL and SPECIAL FEATURES:
The material of your backpack will depend
on the conditions you expect to travel in. Hardier fabrics
will cost more and may be heavier but are worth it if
you will be travelling in inclement weather or for an
extended trip that will cause wear and tear. Choosing
lighter, cheaper fabrics is fine for day trips.
If you are taking climbing equipment,
snowshoes or other sporting equipment it is best to
find a backpack with specific attachment features for
your gear. Trying to retro fit your gear can cause undo
strain to your backpack and force you to slouch to one
side in compensation for an off-balanced pack.
Take all aspects into consideration
when choosing your backpack since your comfort will
be your biggest concern when you hit the trails.
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