Everyone in the family should have a good backpack. School packs work fine for young children. They like to carry packs because it makes them feel grown up –– and it can help ease your load. Let them carry their jacket, rain gear, small water bottle and a few snacks. Don’t overtax them.
Author Michael Rutter offers the following guidelines for adult and teen packs:
1. Make sure it’s the right size and fits properly. Loosen the straps. Put the weighted pack on and let it sit for a minute or two. Now cinch the shoulder straps rather tightly.
2. Loosen the shoulder straps and cinch the hip belt, which should ride comfortably on your hips. A good hip belt will even out the load by shifting some of the weight to your hips.
3. Cinch the shoulder straps again. The padded part of the shoulder straps should cover your entire shoulder.
4. The straps should be 3 to 5 inches lower than the top of the pack.
5. Adjust the sternum straps, which should be just below the collar bone. They should not get in the way of your breathing.
6. Wear the pack for 30 minutes to see if the weight is distributed well. When you walk, lift your legs up high and see how it feels.
7. With an internal-frame pack, some of the stays may have to be removed and bent to get an accurate idea of the pack’s fit. Make bends gently.
When you’re ready to load your pack, pack heavier items higher and closer to your back to improve your center of gravity. Lighter items should be placed lower and farther from your back.
