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Camping Backpacks

Planning a hike, a backpack! Your pack will be your constant companion on your travels, so make sure you purchase one that meets your needs. Since packs can vary widely in price and features, take a minute to consider what you need. The two most important factors to consider in a backpack are size and fit. Read on for more information below.

Size

This ConsumerSearch guide estimates what volume you'll need for a given trip length: * '''750-3,000 cubic inches''': Mainly for day trips, but you might want to pack one inside your week pack. * '''3,000-4,000 cubic inches''': Small bag, good for light packers for the weekend or overnight trips that need more gear. * '''4,000-5,000 cubic inches''': A few days or a long weekend. * '''5,000long trips or trips when you might need to carry extra gear. * '''6,000+ cubic inches''': Very large bags, good for a week or more. Of course, if you need to carry more gearyou should probably get a bag larger than these estimates suggest.

Fit

* Measure your torso size (from your seventh vertebra in your neck down to your hips). Most torsos are between 18 and 22 inches long. * Next, measure the width of your chest and hips. * The hip belt should rideat your hips. If it rides higher up at the waist, it will not be as supportive. * The shoulder straps should meet the pack just below the crest of your shoulders and fit the curves of your back, neck and shoulders. * You should have enough room to look up unencumbered. * Look for adjustable or removable straps. Even with a properly fitting pack, you may need to adjust the fit based on what you're wearing or carrying.

Features

There are a few things to look for in the construction of your bag: * '''Lacing''': Strong lacing and fabric (nylon never fails). * '''Padding''': Well no one likes a sweaty back or things poking into them. * '''Space''': Make sure you appropriate storage space with have hydration pack/jackets when you no longer need them.  * '''Weight''': You don't want the pack to add unnecessary weight, and it should sit properly on your back so that you aren't hunched over. * '''Waterproof''': If you anticipate inclement weather, buy a bag that is waterproof and has inner pockets for things that can't get wet, and remember to go over the bag with waterproofing spray before use. * '''Tearstop nylon; reinforced seams are good. * '''Zippers''': Make sure they are either reinforced or double zippers, In case one fails. * '''duct tape.

Types

Extra Tips

* If you are bringing children or animals, consider what you will need to carry for them. You may want a backpack carrier for your toddler. * If you bringing electronics, pick a bag that allows you camera or GPS. * If you are going where there will be lots of people, animals and/or brush in your path, consider a smaller pack. The bulkier the pack, the harder it is to get by in tight situations. You don't want to get caught up in a tree. * Pick the most compact bag possible. Remember it's your back that has to carry it, unless you have a pack mule in the yard. * Pick a bag that can handle wear and tear if you are the roughtough type. * Some backpacks have locking functions, which are a good deterrent if you are concerned with theft. But if you plan to leave the pack alone for a long period of time, it won't help. * For women especially, be sure to get a pack that fits your frame. Although all camping packs are unisex, bags designed specifically for women tend to be more comfortable, especially for petite ladies.

Related Guides

* Sports and Recreation * Backpacks * Men's Outerwear * Hiking Boots * Outdoors !