How to Adjust a Hiking Backpack

ABEC guiding

Wearing a pack while backpacking can result in discomfort, not to mention long-term back problems if it is not adjusted properly. Your backpack is your home away from home while out on in the backcountry. It should not only carry what you need in an organized way, but feel as comfortable as possible. A few simple adjustments will have you carrying your pack in a whole new way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Backpack
Backpack

Step 1

Make sure the pack you are using is the right size for your body size. Most packs have an adjustable torso length. If you are a petite woman or child, you will want a small-size pack. Most people will find an adjustment in the medium-size packs to fit them well, unless you are extra tall, in which case you may need a large-size frame.

Step 2

Adjust the torso so that the bottom of the pack rests at the base of your lower spine, at the small of your back and at the top of your shoulders. The packs top compartment may visibly rise above your shoulders but the structure of the pack should mimic the length of your spine.

Step 3

Fasten the hip belt so that it snuggly rests just above your hip bones. You want a larger percentage of the packs weight to rest on your hips and legs and not your shoulders as this can cause upper back and neck problems. Adjust the waist belt so the straps are the correct length for your waist.

Step 4

Load the pack with the amount of weight you generally carry on the trail and put the pack on, adjusting the belt as before. This should be simple because you already preadjusted the waist belt. Then pull the shoulders straps so the remaining weight is balanced out by being brought closer to the core of your body.

Step 5

Pull the straps near the lid of the pack to bring the pack's weight in even closer and to create an even more snug fit at the shoulders. These are the straps that you can reach when the pack is on.

Tips & Warnings

Always pack the heavier stuff toward the bottom of your pack and closer to your back. The lighter stuff can go on the outside of the pack (farthest from your body) and toward the top. Balancing the weight inside in combination with correct strap adjustment will enable you to more swiftly carry your pack.

Article Written By Naomi Judd

Naomi M. Judd is a naturalist, artist and writer. Her work has been published in various literary journals, newspapers and websites. Judd holds a self-designed Bachelor of Arts in adventure writing from Plymouth State University and is earning a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Southern Maine.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...