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Daysacks
As the name suggests these bags are
really only meant for use on day trips. They rarely have
any internal support which means the bulk of the weight
is suspended from the shoulders, but at 15-35 Litres
they shouldn't be too heavy. Daysacks can vary in style,
some have sidepockets for water bottles, and others come
with a mesh back for increased ventilation and for the
active user there are those that have hydration systems
built in as well.
Alpine
Rucksacks
These medium sized rucksacks do have some internal
suport and are commonly used for mountaineering, as the
name might suggest. They usually have more of the
features of a larger sack, such as the hipstrap and a
compartment in the lid for extra space. Though sizes can
vary from the very large to the very small, ultimately
the Alpne Rucksack is intentionally smaller so the
experienced climber can take less equipment on a climb
to increase speed.
Backpacking
These sacks are suitable for longer excursions of a few days
or more, as they come with an internal support structure to
distribute the load evently across the back. Modern
backpacks of this sort have adjustable back straps, meaning
you can get the perfect support for your own frame. There
are so many extra pockets and pouches in a bag of this kind
that it is very easy to arrange your gear.
Travel
Packs
These travel packs are a favourite with people off on
gap years or for extended trips because they not only
have a main backpack but they also come with their own
detachable daysack for shorter trips which can also be
used as hand luggage on flights. It really is the ideal
luggage when a wheeled suitcases just wont do.
Fitting
Ensuring that your rucksack is comfortable
is essential if you are going backpacking, so you must try
it on before you buy it. Finding the right fit can reduce
the soreness and fatigue that comes from carrying a weight
on the shoulders and this is why we recommend visiting a
store to pick out a new rucksack.
When you try on a rucksack it will help to fill the bag with
something to simulate carrying your full load, because empty
bags are always comfortable.
You should be looking for the straps to curve snugly around
the shoulders, and the bel, to lie on the hips. The belt
then shifts the majority of the load off the shoulders and
on to the much stronger hip girdle. You don't want the belt
pulling against your belly, as this can become very
uncomfortable.
Once you are happy with the fit of your
new purchase and you head off across country, using the draw
straps to pull the load closer to your body helps with your
balance and will also stop the pack from swaying about which
will cause undue strain on the shoulder joints.
Remember, a full loaded sack weighs approximately 1lb per
Litre, so don't pick a sack which, when fully laden, you
will not be able to carry comfortably.
Kit &
Packing
What you should take will be determined
by the activity you will be doing. If you are off on an
expedition then your tour operator will be able to
supply you with a better kit list than we can. For
gappers off on travels, check out our Gap Year guide.
Ramblers and Backpackers will find all you need right
here.
Preparation
Study your kitlist and
prepare your kit well in advance of your departure. That way
you give yourself enough time to pick up or order anything
you haven't already got.
There are two contrasting
maxims with regards packing a rucksack:
If in doubt,
leave it out: You dont want
any extra weight so dont take any unnecessary items.
If you really care, take a spare: If there is
something essential to your safety or well being, take a
spare. There could be nothing worse than losing something
vital.
Packing
Everyone will want to
pack their kit differently, and depending on the
compartments your rucksack has you will be able to pack
as you like. Some people prefer their sleeping bag in a
bottom compartment, whereas others will use that space
to separate wet clothing. However you want to pack,
there are some things that you should always keep near
the top. Guides, Maps snacks and anything you might want
as you walk are better kept at the very top, closely
followed by your waterproofs in case the heavens open.
If you have anything soft in your rucksack you should
aim to put this on the back of the bag, on the same side
as the straps so there is nothing hard digging in to
your back as you walk. An uncomfortable load should be
re-packed whenever you take a break.
1. Sleeping bag & Liner in
the bottom compartment.
2. Matress or Roll Mat.
3. Spare Snacks.
4. Spare Baselayers and Socks.
5. Cooking Utensils, Stove & Food.
6. Wash Bag.
7. Sandals.
8. Cooking Equipment.
9. Stove fuel.
10. Spare Fleeces.
11. Water Bottle or Flask.
12. Your share of the tent or waterproofs (near the top so
the can be easily whipped out if the weather turns).
13. Maps, Money, Passport, Visas etc.
14. Guidebook.
15. Bits and pieces: Suncream sunglasses etc.
16. First Aid Kit.
17. On the go snacks.
18,19. Tent Poles and Walking Poles strapped to the outside
of the bag.
20. Camera bag attached to hip belt.
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Your
choice of sack will be determined by how much you will
be carrying, and what you're going to be carrying. So
think about your load very carefully before purchasing a
new sack. You can get help with this from our kit list
and packing planner, and if you are buying your first
rucksack then make sure you read up on finding the right
fit. 