I love backpacks. My daughters love backpacks. I cleaned out my daughter's backpack one day last year after school and took out a lot of bags.... Potato chip bags.... one after the other.... empty, squished, potato chip bags. There must have been six or seven of them, all neatly squished into a ball. I didn't know she had been eating chips every day. I did know that she loves snacks as much as I do and am not surprised by the empty bags of chips. Whenever we go on a trip, she is the one that packs her backpack with snacks instead of clothes. We may not dress right, but we will not be hungry.
There are a lot of choices when it comes to backpacks. Finding the right backpack for you does not have to be that hard. As with most camping equipment, it is a matter of personal choice, comfort and what will be practical for your backpack needs. You definitely don't want to head out on an overnight camping trip with the wrong fitting backpack. So, when you do go out looking for one, make sure you "try it on" and get a good feel for it. You also have to keep in mind, not only how long you will be wearing it, but what you will be carrying in it. Will it be just a few items for one overnight or many items for a week long trip or more?
Now, that you know how long you will be gone, and what you will need to carry, make sure it will be comfortable on you while it is filled with all your essential items. A good backpack should be able to distribute the weight inside it. Ask the sales clerk if there is a way you could check that out. Some stores may let you put some items in the backpack to try out the weight. Part of the comfort of the backpack is in the straps: both the shoulder straps and the hip straps. Typically, about 30% of the weight should be at the shoulder strap level and 70% of the weight should be around the hips. Make sure you can not only move about comfortably but that you can also breathe okay.
When checking out backpacks, you may notice that some have a frame. There are some frames that are internal and others have an external one. The internal ones are better suited for longer camping trips as they allow for more mobility. The external framed backpacks would be better for the beginner camper or for children as they are easier to pack. They are also better suited for a short trip which most likely would be done by children or inexperienced campers.
Just remember to take your time when choosing the right backpack and you will have a more enjoyable and comfortable camping experience.
