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Choosing the Right Backpack for
any Activity
Choosing a new backpack can be a daunting task but with our help, you will be able to choose the backpack that
is right for you.
Backpacks come in a variety in shapes and sizes to fit your everyday needs or to help you conquer a week long adventure in the backcountry.
Backpack Categories
 |  Computer Packs - These packs are great for every day use and have several compartments for your laptop, cell phone, PDA, MP3 player, pens, pencils, calculator and more. Computer packs are very well organized and great for schoolers or anyone on the go. |
|  Daypacks - The most popular users of daypacks are students. These bags are designed to accommodate text books and school supplies but can also be used as a lightweight alternative to a handbag that may be used to carry items to the beach or on a short hike. |
|  Hydration Packs - Almost any backpack can be a hydration pack, therefore, they can vary greatly in size. All hydration packs have a built in reservoir for your liquids with a tube that you can drink out of. These packs keep you from having to stop and find your water bottles. |
|  Kid Carriers - These packs are great If you need a comfortable way to carry your child on a trip to an amusement park or on a hike and carry equipment. |
|  Lumbar Packs - Small packs that ride on the hips used mainly for day hikes.
Fanny packs can also be used as an alternative to a backpack
because some lumbar packs are large enough to carry more than
1000 cu in of gear and are great at relieving your shoulders
from strain.
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It is relatively easy to determine which of the above backpacks will suit your needs but if you are a hard core backpacker, you will most likely be choosing between either an internal frame backpack or an external frame pack.
|  Internal Frame Packs - These packs feature a more narrow structure with an integrated framework that enable packers to traverse more rugged trails. These packs are best for climbers, skiers and cross-country backpackers.
Advantages
| Flexible - Since the frame is integrated into the pack, it will move more freely with your body movements.
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| Balance - Due to the narrow design and the way the pack hugs the body, the natural center of gravity is maintained.
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| Stable - With many compression straps throughout the pack, there is less shifting of gear enabling you to maintain a solid center of gravity.
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| Maneuverability - With the narrow design, hikers and cross-country skiers alike maintain the ability to move their arms freely as well as scoot through narrow trails or tight spots.
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| Adjustable - The suspensions systems can be adjusted easily and precisely to ensure comfort.
Disadvantages
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| Single Compartment - Most internals have one huge compartment for storage so locating an item may be a chore.
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| Cost - Internals typically cost more than externals of similar size.
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| Heat - Because internal frame packs hug the body, there is no ventilation, therefore, most likely you will end up with a sweaty back when you get to your destination.
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|  External Frame Packs - As the name implies, externals have a rigid frame on the outside of the pack. These packs are great for carrying heavier loads because the bulk of the weight is more squarely situated on the hips. These packs are best for beginners and for hikers that will be carrying a very heavy load.
Advantages
| Cost - Externals are typically less than a similar sized internal.
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| Ventilation - With the external frame, the materials do not ride directly on the body thus creating a better airflow and a cooler experience.
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| Packing - Externals typically feature at least 2 main compartments with several others throughout the pack making it easier to pack and find your gear.
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| Heavy Loads - With the frame structure and body contact points, it is easier to carry heavier
loads.
Disadvantages
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| Size - Because externals are wider than internals, it makes it more difficult to maneuver on a less than perfect trail. They also take up more space in the car due to their rigid structure.
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No matter which backpack you choose, some things to consider when picking your next pack are the hip belts and shoulder straps. Be sure to choose a pack that fits your body that has padded
belts and is the right size for what you will be using it for.
Also learn how to fit your backpack.
| Up to 3,000 cu in - Excellent for minimal supplies for a day
trip. |
| 3,000 - 4,000 cu in - Good for enough supplies for a 1 - 2 day
trip. |
| 4,000 - 5,000 cu in - Up to 3 days of overnight camping. |
| 5,000 - 6,000 cu in - Up to 6 days overnight camping.
This is generally the best overall size for most backpackers. |
| More than 6,000 cu in - Good for hauls of a week or more. |
Remember, the larger the pack, the
more it weighs so be sure to do a little research on what you will
be carrying to get an idea of the size of the pack you need.
Most manufacturers have
different sizes designated by torso length and hip size. See
how to fit your backpack to ensure the backpack you choose will be
as comfortable as possible. Now
you know what backpack is right for you. What is your next
step? Visit our equipment store to find a number of different
backpacks from quality manufacturers. We are sure that one will be
right for you. |
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