How do i properly fit the backpack?

To properly fit your backpack, follow these steps:

  1. Loosen all Straps:
    • Start by loosening all the straps on the backpack: the shoulder straps, hip belt, load lifters, and sternum strap. This will give you a fresh start to properly adjust each component.

  2. Load the Backpack:
    • If possible, load the backpack with the weight you plan to carry. This ensures the adjustments are made with the actual load you'll be carrying.

  3. Put on the Backpack:
    • Lift the backpack onto your back using your legs, not your back, to avoid injury. Lean forward slightly and swing the pack onto your shoulders.

  4. Adjust the Hip Belt:
    • Place the hip belt so that it sits comfortably on your hip bones, not your waist. The padding should wrap around your hips.
    • Buckle the hip belt and tighten it so it feels snug but not too tight. About 80% of the pack's weight should rest on your hips. 

  5. Adjust the Shoulder Straps:


    • Tighten the shoulder straps by pulling down on the ends until they fit comfortably on your shoulders.

    • Ensure the weight is distributed evenly and the straps are not digging into your shoulders.

  6. Adjust the Load Lifters:
    • These are the small straps located at the top of the shoulder straps, connecting to the top of the pack.
    • Tighten them so that they form a 45-degree angle between the backpack and your shoulders. This will pull the top of the pack closer to your body, thereby balancing the load.

  7. Adjust the Sternum Strap:

    • Buckle the sternum strap across your chest and tighten it. This helps to stabilize the shoulder straps and distribute the weight more evenly.
    • Make sure it's not too tight to restrict your breathing.

  8. Fine Tune Adjustments:

    • Walk around with the backpack and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable.
    • Check that the pack is not pulling you backward or leaning too far forward.
    • Adjust the shoulder straps, hip belt, load lifters, and sternum strap as needed for comfort and stability.

  9. Check the Fit:

    • The pack should feel balanced and comfortable.
    • Most of the weight should be carried by your hips, with the shoulder straps helping to keep the pack close to your body.
    • There should be no pressure points or areas where the pack is digging into your body.

By following these steps, you can ensure your backpack is properly fitted, making it more comfortable and easier to carry.

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Now some notes to help sort through the alternatives:

    • A daypack of 10 to 30 liters is ideal for a day hike.
    • A two or three day hike requires 30 litres, while camping makes 40 litres or more necessary
    • A hip pack provides easy access to snacks and water and can be a good alternative to a daypack.
    • Pick a backpack that feels good. If you experience discomfort in your back, it's likely due to how you wear the backpack rather than the backpack itself. The straps of the backpack serve a crucial role in ensuring a pain-free back and a more enjoyable adventure. Proper weight distribution is essential.
    • Compression straps on the sides compress the pack's load, making it smaller and pulling the gear closer to your body. This reduces the lever arm of the load's weight, making it less tiring to carry.
    • A Hip belt sits directly on top of your hip bones. It takes a significant load off your shoulders onto your hips. making long-term carrying much more comfortable.
    • The sternum strap, or chest strap, connects the two shoulder straps of the pack and clips across your sternum. It enhances pack stability and keeps the shoulder straps in place.
    • Load lifter straps are positioned at the top of the pack and adjust the weight distribution forward or backward, lifting it off your shoulders.
    • Attachment straps are on the top or the bottom of the pack. They have a clip for attaching things like sleeping mats or a tent.
    • Hip belt stabilizers connect the hip belt to the pack body and help pull the pack closer to your body, especially around the lower portion.
    • Shoulder straps are adjustable to match your torso height. It's recommended to tighten the hip belt first, followed by the shoulder straps.
    • Bring a waterproof pack cover or liner to ensure all the gear inside your backpack stays safe and dry.
    • Keep your personal ID, medical profile, allergy card and emergency contact information in a waterproof pouch. Bring a weatherproof hiking journal and a reliable pen for leaving notes in case of emergencies.
    • Bring food containers to prevent your food from spilling.