The Best Way to Load Your Backpack for a Hike
A properly sized backpack is the key to a great hike. Once you’ve chosen the right backpack, use this drawing to load it up for your comfort on the trail.
Even if you have tons of equipment, you want to distribute the total weight correctly. Lighter, less used items (such as a sleeping bag) should go down. Put your heavier gear in the part of the backpack closest to your back so you can better support the weight. Place light items that you need to access frequently (such as snacks) in the top pockets of your backpack.