You Mean I Have to Carry This On My Back? Backpacks Hints and Tips

Backpacking can be a daunting venture, and that's before you've even left your front door! Whether backpacking through Europe during your gap year, taking a much-anticipated mountain hike or you simply have a desire to imitate a pack mule and lug an inordinately large amount of stuff around with you, choosing the right backpack to suit your needs, and heeding a few basic tips will make for a considerably more pleasant experience. When buying the backpack, be sure to check the quality of the stitching and the pack in general, or if you must buy it online do so from a reputable retailer. Moreso than size or price or in fact anything else, comfort should be your overriding concern when deciding which backbag/backpack suits you best.

Of course, just because it's comfortable on your back when you buy it doesn't mean it'll be comfortable on your back when it's filled with all the trinkets you simply 'have to have.' Backbags or backpacks, or whatever you'd prefer to call them can get uncomfortable very, very quickly and so before you go prancing half way around the world (or the block) with one on your back, it's best to put a little bit of thought into what goes into it. And just as importantly, how everything goes into it.

What to Think About When Packing Your Backpack

First off, never carry more in your backpack than what you need. Obvious, yes, but it warrants mentioning. That waffle iron may not be as important as you thought it might be after carrying it on your back for two months. Secondly, always pack essential, oft-used items at the top of your backpack or where they are easily accessible. Digging through your entire backpack to find a stick of gum gets old quickly. Try to distribute the weight evenly throughout the backbag, you don't want to overbalance or have your backpack 'carrying' you around. And Lastly, be sure to avoid packing any items (or otherwise cushion them with something soft) that would poke you in the back or irritate you in the slightest. Remember the story about the princess and the pea? If not, you will.

These are just a few common sense tips that will, hopefully, make your entire backpacking experience all the more pleasurable. If you're so inclined, be sure to browse around our selection for a while, your back may not get sore, but your feet will. And well, we've got plenty to help with that!

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