What To Look For
Selecting a backpack has been made significantly more simple by the slow disappearance of external frame packs. In past years the primary conflict was between external and internal, but internal has won the war, giving way to a number of new factors which must go into the backpack buyer's decision making process. When purchasing a backpack today you will want to look for durable fabrics, light weight, an appealing pocket and zipper combination and a suspension system that feels comfortable on your back. Unlike many other camping products, a backpack is a very subjective experience, necessitating careful research and hands-on sizing.
Common Pitfalls
Many people do not try out their pack thoroughly enough or test their backpack without weight added. Make sure to test your backpack with a fair amount of weight loaded into the pack. The worst place to discover that a particular backpack's shoulder straps rub you raw is while on the trail after the purchase has already been made. Frequently people also purchase packs that are the wrong capacity for them, leaving with extra room and weight or a backpack that can't manage the heavy loads they would like to be carrying.
Where To Buy
A backpack should only be bought after extensive testing, meaning that it can only be purchased in an outdoor outfitter or a specialized retailer. Some backpack manufacturers, such as Osprey, even have special equipment in stores that can customize the fit of your pack to the shape of your back, making it extra important that you buy your backpack in person. While big-box retailers often sell a few backpack models, it is important to go to a store with experienced employees who will know how to fit the backpack to you and can think of criteria you may not have considered.
Cost
Backpacks come in a variety of prices, but most hover around $100. Price does not necessarily correspond with quality, but it often matches with capacity. For example, the GoLite Dawn is an excellent pack for ultra lightweight backpackers and costs only $80, whereas the Dana Design Terraplane LTW has a massive capacity of 5800 cubic inches and will set you back $440. Other factors that add cost include increased waterproofness and backpacks designed with specific functions in mind, such as snowboarding or mountaineering.
Comparison Shopping
Comparison shopping for backpacks is difficult, since you are unlikely to have multiple outdoor outfitters in your city that offer the same packs at different rates. However, most backpack manufacturers have a dealer locator on their site, allowing you to track down other stores that may offer lower rates. More important is comparing suspension and straps from pack to pack. Feel for lumbar support and how the pack sits on your hips. Ask an employee to try out different strap configurations on you to find the set up most comfortable for you.
Accessories
The most important accessory for backpacks are rain covers. While most backpack manufacturers have a rain cover designed specifically for their packs, you can save a few dollars by purchasing a one-size-fits-all cover.
Insider Tips
Look for a backpack that fits your personality. If you are disorganized, find a pack with numerous exterior pockets and daisy chains to strap items. If you like fiddling with your gear, then look for a backpack with a variety of compression straps and numerous points of adjustment.
