By correctly loading your backpack you will find that you expend less energy whilst carrying it compared to one which is unbalanced. Plus you will know that it is also much more comfortable to carry also.
There are a number of different ways in which a person can load their backpack and below we provide some guidelines which will help to ensure that you pack yours correctly. By doing this not only will it be more comfortable when being carried but the likely of any injury occurring during the time it is being carried is greatly decreased.
Step One
You should assemble everything that you will be putting into your backpack including food, water, clothing and any other equipment that you require.
Step Two
Place all of the heavy items as close to your back as possible and do not stuff them into the bottom. Also any light items or clothes that you have should be placed towards the outsides of pack.
Step Three
All items like your tent or sleeping bag should be strapped to the outside. Today there are backpacks such as the Osprey Atmos 65 which now come with additional bungee loops and a place at the base of the pack where the sleeping bag can be packed away into. Also having these loops allows you to attach bungee straps to them which then means that the tent can be securely fastened to the pack and this will help to ensure that all weight you are carrying is evenly distributed between the shoulder straps and the hip belt.
Step Four
Always ensure that you have a garbage bag within your pack especially if you know the weather is going to be inclement whilst away on your trip. Use this as a liner within your pack and place all items such as your clothes that you want to ensure are kept dry at all times.
Step Five
Use one outside pocket of your pack that you can easily reach where you want to put your snacks, water and trash. Today many backpacks now come with additional pockets on the hip belt where items such as snacks etc. can be placed. Also a lot of backpacks now allow the user to have a water (fluid) reservoir which they can place within it and which then provides them with a continuous supply of water and leaves their hands free.
Step Six
Place all essential items such as maps, books, flashlight, sun cream and also batteries in the pocket that allows you to gain easy access to them without actually having to stop. Again such backpacks as the Osprey Atmos 65 now provide the wearer with additional pockets on the hip belt where these particular items can be kept and which they can easily get to at any time during the trip.
By keeping these steps in mind when it comes to loading up your backpack will ensure that everything evenly distributed and so much more comfortable to carry. Plus the chances of any injuries being caused through the backpack being loaded incorrectly and placing pressure on certain parts of the body will be greatly reduced.
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