Hiking Pack Features Needed for an All-day Hike

Want to choose a pack like a pro? There are a few factors that go into choosing the perfect backpack to get you through an all-day hike. There are a few factors that go into choosing the perfect backpack to get you through an all-day hike. Features such as functionality, comfort, and waterproofing are crucial for hikers, wilderness travelers, and international travelers who are carrying gear while exploring a city. To go even further, some features to look for when choosing a hiking pack for your all-day trip include...

Space

If you are traveling for several weeks, you may be tempted to load your backpack to the brim, but it should be packed as lightly as possible. Remember, you will be carrying it’s weight the entire way. Since you will be packing light, plan on doing some laundry during your journey, or plan to buy something if you truly need it. Use travel accessories such as an Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Packing Cube Set to reduce the volume of bulkier clothes. Optimizing the space in your hiking pack is key.

Pockets

It’s important to keep your backpack organized, and utilizing pockets for water bottles, snacks, first aid, etc. can help you do that. It’s beneficial to have things like water bottles and first aid items easily accessible in your pack because you don’t want to be digging around when you need them most. Pockets and zippers in and on the backpack will also help with packing light for all-day hikes.

Straps

For all-day hiking, be sure you have a proper hiking pack with the right straps for cushioning and weight distribution. You want to ensure that you have great support for a comfortable hike. It might be beneficial to try a backpack with easily adjustable hip belts. A hip belt can transfer a large portion of the weight from your shoulders to your hips. If you want a backpack just for the convenience of getting to and from your destination, check out a style with less-supportive straps that can stow easily behind a panel for traveling by air, train, or bus.

Supplemental packs

Some types of waterproof backpacks have removable daypacks. This style is ideal for travelers who can leave a large backpack at a hotel and take the daypack for cameras, water, jackets, and other sightseeing gear. A detachable daypack is also useful for day hikers who want to leave a larger hiking pack at a campsite.