If you’re a fan of backpacking, you’re probably thinking about purchasing a high-quality backpack. Having one is a necessity for any adventurer. Even if you’re out for a long day of hiking, you’ll want a pack that can handle the weight of your gear and keeps you comfortable while doing so.
Choosing the right backpack, particularly for a first-time buyer, is daunting. Many options available in the market are very complicated, and the equipment buzzwords alone are enough to make you feel like your head will explode. Once you know what to ask, there’s the problem of how to ask it. Choosing the right backpack is essential to enjoy a successful hiking trip.
Know and understand the essentials.
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the essentials of backpack styles to make an informed choice. An external frame offers more airflow, but an internal-frame pack provides a snugger fit, spreads the stack more evenly, and weighs less than an external-frame pack.
If you like to drink from a bottle while hiking, a water reservoir may be an option for you. Consider the quantity you’ll need in your pack to narrow down your choices. Consider a bag with 65 liters of water content or more for a week-long backcountry or cold weather trip that requires heavy equipment. 50 to 70 liters of water should suffice for a three- to five-day trip in warm weather. A 30- to 50-liter pack is sufficient for an entire weekend.
What you intend to do with it
Before you buy a backpack, think about what kind of trips you’ll be taking with it. Size is a significant factor to consider. When planning a long-distance hiking trip, you’ll need a lightweight backpack. Take into account that if you ever plan to go on a more extended trip, you can always purchase a larger pack.
When hiking in hot climates, look for a backpack with a lot of airflow for your back. A well-ventilated pack will keep sweat from collecting on the shoulders and back, which can lead to blisters, as well as the loss of body heat and itchiness.
Take advantage of the services of an outdoor-themed retailer.
The ease of ordering a backpack online is undeniable, but if this is your first time doing so, take a trip to an outdoor retailer instead. While major stores sell backpacks, an outdoor niche outlet is your safest choice for a high-quality pack that will fit snugly and lasts several years. Larger bags, in particular, are more susceptible to this. Outdoor outlet stores not only offer the most up-to-date products on the market, but they also have experienced members of staff who can assist you in selecting the best backpack for your needs. The service member should know what kind of trips you’ll take and where you’ll spend your time. This will help you figure out how big of a pack to buy.
Conclusion
Understandably, a high-quality pack will cost more, but the distinction between a pleasant and grueling experience can be made by investing a little more in your bag.
