fbpx
Outdoor World Reviews
  • Boating
    • Boat Anchor For Lakes
    • Boat Deck Chairs
    • Boat Wax
    • Jet Ski Life Jacket
    • Towable Tubes
  • Bows
    • Arrows for Compound Bow
    • Beginner Compound Bows
    • Bowfishing Bow
    • Broadheads For Hunting
    • Crossbow Pistol
    • The 12 Fastest Compound Bows
  • Camping
    • 4 Person Tent
    • Camping Cooler
    • Hot Tub Steps
    • Portable Shower
    • Pop Up Canopy
  • Fishing
    • Backpacks
    • Crappie Rods
    • Crankbait
    • Fly Fishing Vest
    • Hooks For Catfishing
    • Kids Fishing Poles
    • Monofilament Line
    • Pike Lures
    • Speargun
    • Smallmouth Bass Lures
    • Trout Fishing Baits
    • Walleye Fishing Lures
  • Kayaks
    • For Big Guys
    • Covers
    • Roof Racks for Kayaks
    • Tandem Fishing Kayaks
  • Guns
    • Air Pistol
    • Air Rifles
    • AR-15
      • Bipod
      • Cases
      • Laser
      • Scope
      • Sling
    • Deer Hunting Rifle
    • Duck Hunting Gun
    • Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle
    • Shotgun For Dove Hunting
    • Turkey Shotgun
    • Gun Safes
      • Biometric
      • Car
      • Dehumidifier
      • Door Organizers
      • Handgun
      • In Wall
      • Steelwater
      • Under Bed
    • Holsters
      • Ankle
      • Belly Band
      • Concealed Carry Belt
      • Concealed Carry Vest
      • Fanny Pack
      • Glock 19
      • Kydex IWB
      • Small Of Back
    • Maintenance
      • Gun Cleaning Kit
      • Gun Oil
    • Safety
      • Shooting Ear Protection
      • Shooting Glasses
      • Shooting Gloves
    • Sights & Lights
      • Eotech 512 Holographic Sight Reviewed
      • Laser Bore Sights
      • M&P Shield Night Sights
      • Pistol Red Dot Sight
      • Predator Hunting Lights
      • Red Dot Sight
      • Shotgun Lights
    • Range Finder For Long Range Shooting
    • Reloading Kits
    • Shooting Chronograph
    • Shot Timer
    • Spotting Scope
    • 1911 Magazines
  • Blog
    • Best Fishing Boat Names
    • Best Fishing Songs
    • How to Guides
      • Anchor a Pontoon Boat
      • Build An Emergency Winter Shelter
      • Butcher A Rabbit
      • Catch a Big Brown Trout
      • Catch a Rainbow Trout
      • Change A Fishing Reel From Right To Left Handed 
      • Choose The Right Rangefinder
      • Clean Swim Goggles
      • Cook Wild Goose
      • Cure And Smoke A Venison Roast
      • Cut Foam For Gun Case
      • Dispose of Knives 
      • Fit Hiking Boots
      • Get A Hunting License In California
      • Heat A Tent Without Electricity
      • Keep RV Pipes From Freezing
      • Long Does It Take To Swim A Mile
      • Mount Your Own Deer Antlers
      • Pack a Backpack for Hiking
      • Pack a Tent In a Backpack
      • Pickle Northern Pike
      • Prepare And Cook Venison Tongue
      • Sight In a Compound Bow
      • String a Compound Bow
      • String a Fishing Pole
      • Swim Faster
      • Tan a Rabbit Hide
      • Use A Tactical Pen
      • Wash Hiking Boots
    • Hunting Tips
      • Black Bear
      • Bow Hunting For Beginners
      • Coyote
      • Deer
      • Pheasant
      • Rabbit
      • Squirrel
      • Turkey
    • What Is Fly Fishing
  • Gear
    • Beach
      • Beach Blanket
      • Beach Carts
      • Beach Cooler
      • Beach Toys
      • Kids Snorkel Set
      • Pop Up Beach Tent
      • Rash Guard
      • Underwater Scooter
    • Binoculars for Kids
    • Hiking & Survival
      • Compact Binoculars
      • Folding Shovel
      • GPS For Hiking
      • Headlamp For Hunting
      • Heated Jacket
      • Hiking Shoes For Women
      • Personal Locator Beacon
      • Solar Charger For Backpacking
      • Solar Watches
      • Survival Gear
      • Survival Lighter
      • Upland Hunting Boots
      • Walkie Talkies
    • Knives
      • Boot Knives
      • For Diving
      • Skinning Knives
      • Tactical Folding Knives
    • Military Knee Pads
    • Ski Helmet with Visor
    • Swimming
      • Bag
      • Ear Plugs
      • Gifts For Swimmers
      • Snorkel Vest
      • Swim Vest For Toddlers
      • Swimmers Shampoo
    • Tactical
      • Brightest Flashlight
      • Pants
      • Pen
      • Tomahawk
      • Waterproof Flashlight
    • Thermal Imaging
      • Camera
      • Goggles
    • Waterproof Wallet
No Result
View All Result
Outdoor World Reviews
  • Boating
    • Boat Anchor For Lakes
    • Boat Deck Chairs
    • Boat Wax
    • Jet Ski Life Jacket
    • Towable Tubes
  • Bows
    • Arrows for Compound Bow
    • Beginner Compound Bows
    • Bowfishing Bow
    • Broadheads For Hunting
    • Crossbow Pistol
    • The 12 Fastest Compound Bows
  • Camping
    • 4 Person Tent
    • Camping Cooler
    • Hot Tub Steps
    • Portable Shower
    • Pop Up Canopy
  • Fishing
    • Backpacks
    • Crappie Rods
    • Crankbait
    • Fly Fishing Vest
    • Hooks For Catfishing
    • Kids Fishing Poles
    • Monofilament Line
    • Pike Lures
    • Speargun
    • Smallmouth Bass Lures
    • Trout Fishing Baits
    • Walleye Fishing Lures
  • Kayaks
    • For Big Guys
    • Covers
    • Roof Racks for Kayaks
    • Tandem Fishing Kayaks
  • Guns
    • Air Pistol
    • Air Rifles
    • AR-15
      • Bipod
      • Cases
      • Laser
      • Scope
      • Sling
    • Deer Hunting Rifle
    • Duck Hunting Gun
    • Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle
    • Shotgun For Dove Hunting
    • Turkey Shotgun
    • Gun Safes
      • Biometric
      • Car
      • Dehumidifier
      • Door Organizers
      • Handgun
      • In Wall
      • Steelwater
      • Under Bed
    • Holsters
      • Ankle
      • Belly Band
      • Concealed Carry Belt
      • Concealed Carry Vest
      • Fanny Pack
      • Glock 19
      • Kydex IWB
      • Small Of Back
    • Maintenance
      • Gun Cleaning Kit
      • Gun Oil
    • Safety
      • Shooting Ear Protection
      • Shooting Glasses
      • Shooting Gloves
    • Sights & Lights
      • Eotech 512 Holographic Sight Reviewed
      • Laser Bore Sights
      • M&P Shield Night Sights
      • Pistol Red Dot Sight
      • Predator Hunting Lights
      • Red Dot Sight
      • Shotgun Lights
    • Range Finder For Long Range Shooting
    • Reloading Kits
    • Shooting Chronograph
    • Shot Timer
    • Spotting Scope
    • 1911 Magazines
  • Blog
    • Best Fishing Boat Names
    • Best Fishing Songs
    • How to Guides
      • Anchor a Pontoon Boat
      • Build An Emergency Winter Shelter
      • Butcher A Rabbit
      • Catch a Big Brown Trout
      • Catch a Rainbow Trout
      • Change A Fishing Reel From Right To Left Handed 
      • Choose The Right Rangefinder
      • Clean Swim Goggles
      • Cook Wild Goose
      • Cure And Smoke A Venison Roast
      • Cut Foam For Gun Case
      • Dispose of Knives 
      • Fit Hiking Boots
      • Get A Hunting License In California
      • Heat A Tent Without Electricity
      • Keep RV Pipes From Freezing
      • Long Does It Take To Swim A Mile
      • Mount Your Own Deer Antlers
      • Pack a Backpack for Hiking
      • Pack a Tent In a Backpack
      • Pickle Northern Pike
      • Prepare And Cook Venison Tongue
      • Sight In a Compound Bow
      • String a Compound Bow
      • String a Fishing Pole
      • Swim Faster
      • Tan a Rabbit Hide
      • Use A Tactical Pen
      • Wash Hiking Boots
    • Hunting Tips
      • Black Bear
      • Bow Hunting For Beginners
      • Coyote
      • Deer
      • Pheasant
      • Rabbit
      • Squirrel
      • Turkey
    • What Is Fly Fishing
  • Gear
    • Beach
      • Beach Blanket
      • Beach Carts
      • Beach Cooler
      • Beach Toys
      • Kids Snorkel Set
      • Pop Up Beach Tent
      • Rash Guard
      • Underwater Scooter
    • Binoculars for Kids
    • Hiking & Survival
      • Compact Binoculars
      • Folding Shovel
      • GPS For Hiking
      • Headlamp For Hunting
      • Heated Jacket
      • Hiking Shoes For Women
      • Personal Locator Beacon
      • Solar Charger For Backpacking
      • Solar Watches
      • Survival Gear
      • Survival Lighter
      • Upland Hunting Boots
      • Walkie Talkies
    • Knives
      • Boot Knives
      • For Diving
      • Skinning Knives
      • Tactical Folding Knives
    • Military Knee Pads
    • Ski Helmet with Visor
    • Swimming
      • Bag
      • Ear Plugs
      • Gifts For Swimmers
      • Snorkel Vest
      • Swim Vest For Toddlers
      • Swimmers Shampoo
    • Tactical
      • Brightest Flashlight
      • Pants
      • Pen
      • Tomahawk
      • Waterproof Flashlight
    • Thermal Imaging
      • Camera
      • Goggles
    • Waterproof Wallet
No Result
View All Result
Outdoor World Reviews
No Result
View All Result
OutdoorWorld Reviews is a community-supported website. We may earn a small commission on purchases made through our links. Learn more.
Home Blog

How to Pack a Backpack for Hiking

by Samantha
March 27, 2021
Man hiking with backpack on mountain
1
SHARES
1.3k
VIEWS
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Having a properly packed backpack, whether it’s for a day trip or a multi-day hike, is a key step in preparing for a trip outdoors. From short local hikes to backcountry camping trips, there are some essential items and tricks that will ensure you’re well prepared.

How to Pack a Backpack for Hiking

Why Packing a Backpack for Hiking is ImportantFour hiking backpacks on a fence

• You will be confident that you have the essentials for a safe and comfortable trip

• Carefully distributing the weight will prevent injury and backaches, which will let you enjoy the hike and travel for longer distances

• Evenly distributing the weight will help you balance as you trek up hills, across streams, or over uneven and rocky terrain

• Strategically locating items will give you quick and convenient access to what you need when you need it

If you’re bringing gear on your next trip, even if it’s just a few basic items, you’ll be able to use this article as a guide to a perfectly packed sack!

Essentials

There are a few things that are essential, even for a local day hike. The most basic necessities in your pack include your first aid kit, food and water, and some extra clothing depending on the season you’re hiking.

If you plan on going for an overnight or multi-day hike, then on top of the basics you’ll also need shelter. This includes a tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. You’ll also want to bring cooking gear to make meals for several days. 

Here is a list of other items that you’d need for multi-day trips (and might consider for your day hike, depending on the intensity):

• Kitchen supplies. Keep things simple! Bring only one pot, one bowl, one set of cutlery, and one cup. Wash these and reuse them for every meal. You shouldn’t need much more than this! 

• Headlamps and lighting. This will help you around the campsite at night. It can also be a part of your safety kit, so these are good to bring on short day trips. A headlamp is probably all you will need, but there are also small table lamps for backpacking.

• Sunscreen and bug spray. You’ll feel way better if you can avoid sunburn and annoying bugs!

• Clothing for all possible weather conditions. Plan for the worst and hope for the best! Bringing raincoats is never a bad idea!

Packing Order

Once you have all of your gear laid out, it’s time to organize and pack. When you’re packing for a multi-day hike, you’ll want to maximize every crevasse in your bag. Backpacks can be broken up into different layers.

These layers will help you achieve the most efficient use of space, ensure your bag weight is properly distributed, and have easy access to the items you’ll most likely need. 

Here’s how to organize your gear based on the layers in your backpack:

Bottom Layer

Pack items that are both bulky and you won’t need until arriving at camp. If you’re going for a day trip, use this area to pack spare items.

Middle Layer

Pack dense or heavy items. Placing weight in the middle will make your pack easier to carry because it will help you balance and prevent injury. If you’re packing for a day trip, store your food and water at this level.

Top Layer

Pack bulky items that you’ll need access to while on the trail. This can be a clothing item, like a raincoat or hat. It can also be your safety and first aid kit. On a day trip, the top part of your pack will be similar items.

Accessory Pockets

Use these valuable spaces for items that you will certainly use while hiking. This can include maps, snacks, water, or essential first aid kits. Use these pockets the same way for a day hike, too.

Tool Loops and Lash-On Points

Any long, oversized, or awkwardly shaped items can be attached to the outside of your pack. Avoid strapping anything heavy to the outside, though. This will put you off balance! Usually, hiking poles, a sleeping pad, or ropes are strapped to the outside. Think about strapping gear that doesn’t need to be overly protected.

Organization TipsWoman rolling sleeping bag up into backpack

While you’re figuring out how to pack your life’s essentials for a week in the woods, use the following as helpful reminders or guides. These tips will make your life easier as you pack and hit the trails.

Use Smaller More Lightweight Bags

To help organize your items by type or size. By keeping your clothing or kitchen supplies together, getting settled in camp will be easier.

Make sure you can still stuff items into the small gaps that commonly occur. Your goal is to have a tightly packed and balanced bag so that nothing moves around and throws you off balance.

Maximize Space With Compression Bags

These bags are specially designed to help you shrink gear like sleeping bags or clothing as small as possible. You can push empty space out from these fabric items to form a compact and tight package. The compression bag will hold this shape and allow you to get a super snug fit.

Pack Light

If you’re used to bringing suitcases on trips or even traveling by car, then you’ll want to think about bringing less than what you’re used to.

When you’re carrying your gear, you have to forgo the luxury items like that extra sweater or shirt. If you have quality gear that’s designed for your purpose, you won’t actually need to bring as much as you think!

A Hydration Pack

Is a helpful way to stay hydrated while hiking. You can use hydration packs for day trips or across multi-day backpacking excursions. These are useful because the straw is always right there for a sip of water whenever you need it.

You won’t need to awkwardly reach backward to a bottle or take off your pack for a drink. Staying hydrated more easily can be an added safety feature. 

Always Organize for Convenience & Comfort

This means strategically placing gear so that you can easily access what you need when you need it. And it means organizing gear weight so that it’s ergonomically comfortable and balanced for hiking.

Waterproofing Your BagMan with backpack on sitting in forest

Probably one of the most crucial steps to ensuring an enjoyable hike — in any weather — is making sure your gear stays dry in the rain. There are a few tricks to keeping your supplies dry:

• There are specially made “dry sacks” that are coated in a waterproof rubber or vinyl material. They are typically hallowed bags that you can stuff other bags or items into.

Dry sacks have a unique closing feature: fold and roll the opening of the bag until it’s airtight, and then fasten the sides together using the buckle. This works amazingly well at keeping water out! You can buy dry sacks in different sizes, which are usually measured in liters. 

• If the dry sack option won’t work for you, there is always a simple plastic bag! This won’t provide an airtight or ultra-waterproof cover, but it will be better than nothing.

You can use plastic bags to cover items that you’d prefer to stay dry but won’t be ruined if they happen to get wet. Some clothing or kitchen items might be good options to cover in plastic bags. This is a cheap solution that will help give your gear a bit of rain protection. 

• Many backpacks have rain covers that you can buy. These covers are usually designed to fit snuggly over your backpack to create a barrier that keeps water out. These are a great option to add an extra layer of protection on top of a dry sack or plastic bag. A soggy wet backpack is no fun! You’ll be glad you splurged on the rain cover.

How to Avoid OverpackingWoman with full backpack

A final word of advice: avoid overpacking! Whatever you back in your bag is coming with you across the rocky, rainy, sunny trails. Make your life easier by lightening your pack — you’ll be thankful you did!

Tips to Prevent Overpacking

Maximum Weight – Your absolute maximum bag weight should be no more than 25% of your body weight. But this doesn’t mean your bag should be 25% of your body weight. It’s best to always try and pack as light as possible. Frequently weigh your bag as you prepare for your trip, and then adjust what you’re bringing based on the scale.

Pack Versatile Items – That can serve multiple purposes. If you have a sweater that you can re-wear, then only bring one sweater. If you can use your jacket as a sleeping pillow, then leave the pillow behind. You get the idea. Think creatively about what you’re bringing. 

Pack Lightweight Items – There are some gear options that are cheaper and lighter alternatives. For example, you can choose a lightweight plastic cup rather than a metal one. Or bring an ultra-light stove designed for backpacking. There are tons of alternatives that will help lighten your gear haul!

Lay Everything Out – While you’re prepping for your trip, lay out everything you want to bring on the floor. First, create a pile of the bare necessities. Then take a look at what’s left. Look for things you can remove and try to cut the “non-essentials” down by half. You might be surprised by how little you really need!

Bottom Line

Packing a backpack for hiking is both an art and a science. To avoid issues or injuries on your trip, it’s a good idea to start preparing early. You can use the extra time to test out your bag weight on short hikes around your neighborhood park or trail. You’ll get a sense of whether your bag is comfortable and light enough for your longer trips.

It can take some practice to learn how you can best pack your bag. But with these tips and some trial-and-error tests in your local park, you can be confident that you’re ready for an adventure!

Share75Tweet47Pin17
Samantha

Samantha

Happiest outdoors, Samanthas hobbies include hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, and everything beach-related! When she's not outside she's inside, creating great content for fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Related Posts

How To Use A Tactical Pen - Outdoor World Reviews
Blog

How To Use A Tactical Pen

April 15, 2022
What Is The Purpose Of Tactical Pants? - Outdoor World Reviews
Blog

What Is The Purpose Of Tactical Pants?

March 14, 2022
How To Get A Hunting License In California| Outdoor World Reviews
Blog

How To Get A Hunting License In California

January 26, 2022
hunter with dead pheasant on his hand
Guides & Tips

Pheasant Hunting Tips

January 26, 2022
The 12 Best Fishing Songs of All Time - Outdoor World Reviews
Blog

The 12 Best Fishing Songs of All Time

January 26, 2022
How to String a Compound Bow - Outdoor World Reviews
Blog

How to String a Compound Bow

December 21, 2021

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Outdoor world logo
  • About Us
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Cookies Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact us

© 2019-2020  – Outdoorworld.reviews

No Result
View All Result
  • Boating
    • Boat Anchor For Lakes
    • Boat Deck Chairs
    • Boat Wax
    • Jet Ski Life Jacket
    • Towable Tubes
  • Bows
    • Arrows for Compound Bow
    • Beginner Compound Bows
    • Bowfishing Bow
    • Broadheads For Hunting
    • Crossbow Pistol
    • The 12 Fastest Compound Bows
  • Camping
    • 4 Person Tent
    • Camping Cooler
    • Hot Tub Steps
    • Portable Shower
    • Pop Up Canopy
  • Fishing
    • Backpacks
    • Crappie Rods
    • Crankbait
    • Fly Fishing Vest
    • Hooks For Catfishing
    • Kids Fishing Poles
    • Monofilament Line
    • Pike Lures
    • Speargun
    • Smallmouth Bass Lures
    • Trout Fishing Baits
    • Walleye Fishing Lures
  • Kayaks
    • For Big Guys
    • Covers
    • Roof Racks for Kayaks
    • Tandem Fishing Kayaks
  • Guns
    • Air Pistol
    • Air Rifles
    • AR-15
      • Bipod
      • Cases
      • Laser
      • Scope
      • Sling
    • Deer Hunting Rifle
    • Duck Hunting Gun
    • Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle
    • Shotgun For Dove Hunting
    • Turkey Shotgun
    • Gun Safes
      • Biometric
      • Car
      • Dehumidifier
      • Door Organizers
      • Handgun
      • In Wall
      • Steelwater
      • Under Bed
    • Holsters
      • Ankle
      • Belly Band
      • Concealed Carry Belt
      • Concealed Carry Vest
      • Fanny Pack
      • Glock 19
      • Kydex IWB
      • Small Of Back
    • Maintenance
      • Gun Cleaning Kit
      • Gun Oil
    • Safety
      • Shooting Ear Protection
      • Shooting Glasses
      • Shooting Gloves
    • Sights & Lights
      • Eotech 512 Holographic Sight Reviewed
      • Laser Bore Sights
      • M&P Shield Night Sights
      • Pistol Red Dot Sight
      • Predator Hunting Lights
      • Red Dot Sight
      • Shotgun Lights
    • Range Finder For Long Range Shooting
    • Reloading Kits
    • Shooting Chronograph
    • Shot Timer
    • Spotting Scope
    • 1911 Magazines
  • Blog
    • Best Fishing Boat Names
    • Best Fishing Songs
    • How to Guides
      • Anchor a Pontoon Boat
      • Build An Emergency Winter Shelter
      • Butcher A Rabbit
      • Catch a Big Brown Trout
      • Catch a Rainbow Trout
      • Change A Fishing Reel From Right To Left Handed 
      • Choose The Right Rangefinder
      • Clean Swim Goggles
      • Cook Wild Goose
      • Cure And Smoke A Venison Roast
      • Cut Foam For Gun Case
      • Dispose of Knives 
      • Fit Hiking Boots
      • Get A Hunting License In California
      • Heat A Tent Without Electricity
      • Keep RV Pipes From Freezing
      • Long Does It Take To Swim A Mile
      • Mount Your Own Deer Antlers
      • Pack a Backpack for Hiking
      • Pack a Tent In a Backpack
      • Pickle Northern Pike
      • Prepare And Cook Venison Tongue
      • Sight In a Compound Bow
      • String a Compound Bow
      • String a Fishing Pole
      • Swim Faster
      • Tan a Rabbit Hide
      • Use A Tactical Pen
      • Wash Hiking Boots
    • Hunting Tips
      • Black Bear
      • Bow Hunting For Beginners
      • Coyote
      • Deer
      • Pheasant
      • Rabbit
      • Squirrel
      • Turkey
    • What Is Fly Fishing
  • Gear
    • Beach
      • Beach Blanket
      • Beach Carts
      • Beach Cooler
      • Beach Toys
      • Kids Snorkel Set
      • Pop Up Beach Tent
      • Rash Guard
      • Underwater Scooter
    • Binoculars for Kids
    • Hiking & Survival
      • Compact Binoculars
      • Folding Shovel
      • GPS For Hiking
      • Headlamp For Hunting
      • Heated Jacket
      • Hiking Shoes For Women
      • Personal Locator Beacon
      • Solar Charger For Backpacking
      • Solar Watches
      • Survival Gear
      • Survival Lighter
      • Upland Hunting Boots
      • Walkie Talkies
    • Knives
      • Boot Knives
      • For Diving
      • Skinning Knives
      • Tactical Folding Knives
    • Military Knee Pads
    • Ski Helmet with Visor
    • Swimming
      • Bag
      • Ear Plugs
      • Gifts For Swimmers
      • Snorkel Vest
      • Swim Vest For Toddlers
      • Swimmers Shampoo
    • Tactical
      • Brightest Flashlight
      • Pants
      • Pen
      • Tomahawk
      • Waterproof Flashlight
    • Thermal Imaging
      • Camera
      • Goggles
    • Waterproof Wallet

© 2019 -2022Outdoorworld.reviews - Reliable Outdoor Reviews