Selecting the Right Backpack

What pack is right for me?  Thats a common question, one which I asked myself many times before making the correct decision.  In this article will look at all the features of daypacks, backpacks, and hydration packs to determine which one is right for you.

Daypacks

• Look for a pack that is around 2000 to 2600 cubic inches
• Find a pack with multiple pockects. This is a good way to keep items like sunglasses, cameras, and maps separate from your food and water.
• Padded shoulder straps are a plus.
• Recommended daypacks would contain an aluminum internal stay, or some type of back panel (there are different materials used) that keeps some space between you and the pack, allowing for air circulation.
• Hydration packs are also a popular alternative for day hiking, eliminating the need for water bottles.
• Hydration packs also supply water on demand so you do not have to stop for a drink if you don't want to.
• Finally, there's the color option where available. I'll leave that one up to you, but the subject may be more serious than if first appears. I like to use a pack that is a fairly bright color like red or blue in case you hike in an area that allows hunting.

Top Recommedations by Backpacker Magazine:

Weekend or Multiday Packs

• Look for a backpack ranging for 3000 to 5000 cubic inches
• The upper end of the capacity range, 4500 - 5000 cubic inches, is best suited for weeklong trips, while the lower range is generally enough for a weekend.
• These packs often come in a regular and large size. Regular fits a torso of 15 to 18 inches, which is average.
• I recommend an internal frame for increased comfort. An external frame pack is often considered to be less comfortable.
• Multiple pockets, rain hood, and accessory straps, or places to put straps.
• Padded shoulder straps and hip belt.
• A hydration compatible pack is a plus. Several reservoirs work with most backpacks that are listed as being hydration compatible.

Recommendations: Gregory Women's Deva 60 Backpack

Gregory Deva 60

Extended Trek Packs

• Generally 4500 to 5000 cubic inches. It really depends on how much gear you want to carry and your skill level. You'll need room for a tent, sleeping bag, clothes, food, and other items to last 7 days or longer in some cases.
• These packs often come in a regular and large size. Regular fits a torso of 15 - 18 inches, which is average.
• Generally the same rules for comfort apply to these packs as the others.
• Look for the styles with lots of padding, hip belt, and a sternum strap.
• Many packs now come with an internal pocket to hold a hydration bladder as well as tube ports for the drinking tube. This is an added bonus, making water much more accessible while on the move.

Hydration Packs

• All I can say here is, for a day on the bike, go for the hydration pack.
• Small Hydration packs allow room for some items you may want to take along, and enough water to carry you through the day. Still recommend taking along water treatment tablets or a pocket filter to be safe. There again, that just depends on how far away from clean water sources you plan to be.
• Hydration packs are excellent for day hiking as well, with enough extra storage space for additional items.