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How to Choose the Right Camping Backpack
from: Maxx Adventure TravelExperienced campers know that a camping backpack isn't just any old bag.
Inexperienced campers may think otherwise, however, the bag you choose isn't a trivial decision for a serious camper. You'll learn to appreciate the difference between a good backpack and it's many benefits during your trek if you end up using an bad-fitting pack.
There's the example of an inexperienced trekker on a trip to the Appalachians back in 1994. Rather than having a great camping experience, he had to cut the trip short because he was broken and bleeding due to the weight of a bad-fitting backpack that damaged his hips. Ten years later -- much wiser and experienced -- this trekker, using a proper fitting pack, crossed 960 miles of terrain -- for a much greater adventure than having a trip shortened by bad equipment causing an injury.
So here's some tips to help you choose a good camping backpack.
1. Know Exactly What You're Going to Need: Hikers, as well as campers, have many different preferences. Some prefer the minimalist approach when out in nature and bring along only the most essential stuff. Lots of others take tons of equipment. How much and the type of equipment you'll be bringing is going to determine your decision regarding the backpack you're going to need.
You can then do some calculations regarding your space requirements. A sales representatives should be able to give you the amount of space their backbacks provide. When trying to figure this out, use the measurement of how much equipment you'll be bringing along for the longest trip you'll likely go on.
2. Comfortable is Important: Definitely comfort is the most important thing to consider when your're choosing your backpack for camping. Your camping bag, if it's any good, should help you carry the most weight with the least amount of effort as well as inconvenience.
A good backpack will efficiently distribute the weight, providing the maximum amount of comfort when you're carrying the pack. The only way you'll know how well a pack does this is to test the pack. Good camping stores should have sand weights you can place in the pack for testing how well the pack holds the weight. Always carefully consider how comfortable a pack is before purchasing one.
One guiding rule is the shoulder straps should carry about 30% of the weight, while your hips --since they're more stable -- should carry around 70%. When testing the pack the shoulder straps should not be restrictive or feel uncomfortable. Move around while wearing the pack to determine how much mobility you have.
Most packs will usually have a sternum strap that helps to stabilize the backpack. These straps should be positioned below the collarbone, which ensures the most comfort and stability.
Hipbelts, however, shouldn't constrict your breathing or be so thick they tend to reduce your mobility.
There's lots of different designs and backpack manufacturers constantly announce ‘new and improved' technologies. Of course, the only way you're going know if these new designs work better is to give them a try
3. When Choosing Your Frame: You'll have two types of frames from which to choose -- internal and external. Internal frames will be slimmer and thus hug your body closer, which makes them great for difficult trails since they're more maneuverable and don't restict mobility, however, they're somewhat more difficult to load.
External framed backpacks are a good choice for beginners hiking easy trails because they're easier to pack. On the other hand, you'll find them a bit stiffer, which could restrict your mobility. But they're still the best type of backpack for children or beginners.
4. Consider Extras: When shopping for a backpack you should consider whether it's compatible with weather sheets that will protect your pack from the elements. Also take into consideration how any attachment adapts for your pack. Most backpack rings and snap-ons allow accessories to integrate with them.
The bottom line is that having the right backpack will make any trekking, hiking or camping adventure much more fun and enhance your experience substantially. So choose all your equipment carefully, especially your backpack, which is going to be one fo your most important companions wherever you go.
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