Backpacking Equipment – The Backpack is What You Need Most  

You’ll find that there is a lot of backpacking equipment out there to choose from, but the most important purchase is the backpack itself. Call it the foundation of your adventure because everything that you want to take will be packed within the confines of this one entity and that makes things quite a challenge for you because you have to shoulder the burden. How you choose your backpacking equipment will be based on how often you go on outdoor adventures as well as how long these adventures are and the climate in which they will take place. 

Frameless vs. Framed Backpacks 

When you begin shopping for a backpack you’ll soon notice that there are frameless and framed backpacks to choose from. Backpacks without frames are the cheapest of the lot as well as being lighter and providing less bulk. However, frameless backpacks are only for short casual day trips and they are not equipped to handle heavy loads when you will be going out for a few days at a time. 

The external framed backpacks are affordable pieces of backpacking equipment that make packing for your outdoor adventure a breeze. There are many exterior pockets as well as the fact that the outside frame keeps the pack itself away from your body and the potential for trapping sweat and moisture against you.  External framed backpacks can handle heavier loads but places the weight on the hips and the center of gravity a bit too high when compared to other backpack options. 

Internally framed backpacks are one of the most ideal options, but the problem is that they are also one of the most expensive.  However, these types of packs are more streamlined and can contour to your body better for more ease of movement plus they can also distribute the weight load more evenly throughout the hips and lower back. With great ventilation, the internal frame backpack is becoming the most popular choice in backpack equipment. 

Considering Comfort 

It’s important to remember that comfort needs to be a consideration when you are buying a backpack or any backpacking equipment for that matter. A good salesperson will help fit the backpack to your body and point out all the straps, buckles and other adjustable parts. Walk around the store with your backpack and ask for weights to place inside to get a good feel for how it will actually feel when you are making your way through the trails. 

Take a look at the material for durability and decide if there are enough compartments for storage as well as room for all of your gear like a sleeping bag, foam mat and more. Squat down, look up and feel for any binding or pinching to see if your movements are restricted, if they are you need to keep shopping. 

It’s important to choose backpack equipment that is comfortable, as there are a lot of people who end up at the doctor because their back and shoulders are misaligned from years of using an inappropriately fitted backpack for their body or their needs. Before you make a final decision on your pack, check with the manufacturer’s website to see if there are replacement parts available should something wear out on your backpack.  

 

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