Outdoor Vacations 101 - Using an Expedition Pack
Packing an Expedition Backpack for Hiking, Mountain or Camping Trips
Oct 9, 2009
On long outdoor expeditions, whether family adventure vacations or hiking trips or backpacking holidays or long-haul mountain climbs, an expedition backpack is like a house on the move, and, for seasoned outdoorsmen, an extension of their bodies. It is well worth spending time and effort to understand the trick behind being comfortable while carrying a pack for long hours together. It is also smart to understand how to access stuff on the move, without having to pull out everything every time something is needed urgently.
Packing an Expedition Backpack for a Camp Holiday, Balancing Weight for Carrying Comfort
The most foolproof expedition pack would be one that is top open, with an external frame for support, especially for long hauls in remote areas. The trick in packing is to arrange the items in such a way that the weight aids movement according to the terrain. If the expedition is going to be a largely uphill climb, arrange items in such a way that the pack is top-heavy (heaviest at the top). The weight at the top during a climb will push forward so one bends forward, making the climb easier.
On the return, rearrange items so that the pack weighs more at the bottom. This will distribute the weight on the hips and shoulders, taking the strain off the back. Pack the same way, with greater weight at the bottom, when walking on even ground. Whether it’s a camping holiday or a mountain vacation, an outdoor adventure vacation is more enjoyable when the body is at ease.
How to Pack an Expedition Backpack, Arranging Items for Easy Accessibility
The best way to pack a top open backpack is to fold clothes longitudinally and slip them into the pack so that all items are visible at a glance, and accessible immediately without having to remove anything. This might require some practice. Segregate smaller items according to usage and pack them into the many pockets around the pack - look for pockets that are strategically placed when shopping for a pack. Put toiletries into one pocket, medicines in another, socks, undergarments and small items like hand towels in another. It is wise to carry a couple of bungee cords on an expedition just in case - put these and other small gear into a separate pocket. A concealed or not-easily-accessible pocket should be used for carrying money, keys, papers and other important items. Make sure the pack has a rain cover - this should be in a pocket that can be accessed when the pack is worn, so it can be easily taken out if it begins to rain when on the move.
Most expedition packs will have a separate chamber at the bottom to carry a sleeping bag and shoes. The sleeping mat can be rolled up and strapped on to the pack at the top, positioned so as not to tamper with the balance of the pack. If a tent is also being carried, then the tent and the sleeping mat should be strapped on to the pack on either side, balancing the pack nicely.
Knowing how to pack an expedition backpack plays a major role in a successful expedition, as it can help or impede smooth progress on the trail. Follow the tips to ensure correct balance and easy accessibility of personal items, and get set for exciting camp holidays!
Related Reading
If you found this article useful, you might also like to read about choosing the right hiking or trekking shoes, and about selecting the right tent for a camping holiday.
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