How To Pack A Backpack

Look, we've all been there – staring at a pile of gear, wondering how it'll all Tetris together into our pack. And if you're anything like me on my first trip, you probably stuffed everything in randomly and wondered why your shoulders felt like they'd been through a medieval torture session by mile two.

Let's fix that, shall we?

The Three-Zone Packing Method

Bottom Zone: Your Sleep Sanctuary

• Sleeping pad & bag (stuff it, don't roll it!)

• Sleep clothes

• Items you won't need until camp

Pro Tip: Think of this zone as your bedroom - where all your sleep gear lives.

Middle Zone: The Heavy Lifters

• Food (in a waterproof bag)

• Cooking gear

• Water reservoir

• Bear canister (if required)

Sweet Spot: Pack dense items close to your back, right at mid-spine level - this is your center of gravity's happy place.

Top Zone: The Grab Bag

• Rain gear

• First-aid kit

• Snacks for the day

• Navigation tools

• Headlamp

Think of this as your junk drawer, but organized. Everything you might need during the day goes here.

External Pockets: The Quick-Draw

• Water bottle

• Trail map

• Sunscreen

• Snacks you're eating in the next hour

• The Shit Kit (you know why)

THE THREE CRUCIAL DON'TS (Seriously, Your Back Will Thank You)

1. Don't Bottom-Load Heavy Gear

Research shows that putting heavy items at the bottom creates excess muscle strain. It's like trying to carry a kettlebell by the wrong end - technically possible, but why torture yourself?

2. Don't Skip the Hip Belt

Here's a mind-blowing fact: 60-70% of your pack's weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. Skipping the hip belt is like carrying a watermelon with your pinky fingers—just don't.

3. Don't Pack Like You're Never Coming Home

I get it - you want to be prepared. But overpacking is one of the most notorious beginner mistakes. That "just in case" item? If it's not safety-related, leave it. Your future self will high-five you for this decision.

Quick Wins:

• Compress everything. Air is not your friend here.

• Use stuff sacks to organize your gear, but don't go crazy - sometimes they add unnecessary weight.

• Pack your tent vertically along your spine if it doesn't fit horizontally

• Keep fuel away from your food (unless you enjoy spicy surprises)

Test Drive Time.

Once packed, do the "jump test" - hop up and down. If your pack sounds like a washing machine full of boots, repack. Your gear should barely move.

Remember, this isn't just about comfort - it's about safety. Poor packing can lead to chronic pain and poor spinal alignment, and nobody wants to explain to their chiropractor that they got injured by a poorly packed sleeping bag.

Now get out there and hit the trail - with a pack that feels like it's giving you a gentle hug instead of trying to throw you off a cliff.

P.S. Did you know that most hikers overpack by about 30%? Track what you don't use on your first trip - that's your "leave at home next time" list.