A tourist backpack is fundamentally different from popular urban models. The main preference of this accessory is the transfer of a large number of things over long distances. Therefore, the main characteristics of the backpack must meet the requirements that can provide ease and convenience during a long transition from place to place.
Among the tourist ones, there are varieties of backpacks: trekking, climbing or expeditionary. For ordinary long trips, lightweight tracking models are used, which have their own characteristics.
Rules for choosing a backpack
Experts note that for the first trip it is worth choosing a product in the average cost of a segment in order to determine the features that are necessary for a particular person. General rules for choosing a model dictate:
- well-known brand (popular manufacturers value their reputation, therefore their products most often have undeniable quality, this affects the price, but the result is worth it, in addition, usually such manufacturers give a guarantee on their goods);
- adjustable suspension (the first backpack is better to buy with this option, since the body is just getting used to hiking and the need to carry a load on its shoulders, over time, the tourist will understand exactly what the height and type of fastening should be);
- high-quality fittings ( there is nothing worse than repairing a backpack on a trip, so you should pay attention to everything, even the smallest details, in particular, fasteners, locks and fasteners must be high-quality and durable);
- cost ( do not immediately take the most expensive models from well-known brands, they often have too much superfluous, it is better to pay attention to models at an average price in the segment);
- useful trifles ( when choosing a backpack for hiking, do not forget about useful trifles that can be very useful on the road, this is a special waterproof pocket for documents, light-holding holders for locks and zippers on the product, reflective stripes on the case of the shoulder bag, bottom made of waterproof material, compartment for carrying a laptop).
Important! Before going to the store and choosing a backpack, you should study all the nuances and choose several suitable models. Subsequently, already personally, it will be possible to evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages of the selected products and make a final decision.
Materials, clasps and zippers
Today, almost 90% of backpacks for hiking are sewn from three types of fabrics. Most often it is:
- Oxford (body-friendly and lightweight fabric, which is used for sewing almost all products in average pricing);
- cordura (has enhanced moisture and frost resistance, is slightly heavier than oxford, but it looks very attractive, the fabric crunches a little when moving).
One of the important points is the performance and durability of zippers and fasteners . They should be strong, as it is very inconvenient to repair the details of the backpack during the campaign, and sometimes there is not even time for this.
Straps, printed parts, belts
Properly selected backpack straps - this is 80% of the comfort in the campaign. They should not be too thin, soft and well stitched. The width should be matched exactly to the shoulders of the person.
Beginners should choose products with adjustable elements for hanging additional things, as well as pay attention to the waist belt. All parts must be anatomically shaped and fit well with the human body.
Shut-off valves and internal compartments
Very convenient models with separate access to each bag. This allows you to quickly get a sleeping bag or pots, if there is such a need, without disassembling the basic things.
Important! You need to choose a backpack strictly in accordance with the planned trips. The number of compartments and fasteners for various equipment depends directly on the duration and severity of the trip.
What volume and weight to choose for a hiking backpack?
A wide selection of products with different capacities is presented on the sports goods market. For each trip, the duration and complexity of which is noticeably different, it is advised to choose different models:
- medium (up to 60 liters in volume, great for hiking on weekends with one or two nights, a tent and a sleeping bag will fit in such a backpack, but stock of clothes and other important little things should be minimized);
- large (the volume varies from 70 to 140 liters, designed for long walking trips, can accommodate a large number of things and a supply of food, drinking water, the most equipped models can provide a fully autonomous trip for up to two weeks).
All models are lightweight, varying from the type of fabric and additional mounts that are provided in the backpack . The correct distribution of the weight of the already loaded backpack depends on the adjustment and the availability of auxiliary elements.
We select a backpack "to the body"
To choose the right product, you need to try on it and walk for 5-10 minutes. He should sit comfortably and easily on his shoulders, not straps to move out . In addition, the fitting should be made on clothes that are planned to be worn on the hike. It is better to try on a light T-shirt or jacket. And a warm jacket, which may be needed on a hike.
Important! The load is very important during the fitting. Care should be taken to ensure that the bag is loaded to the maximum. Most sports stores provide special weights for these purposes.
How to adjust a backpack for tourism?
Competent consultants in the store will be able to tailor the product to the characteristics of a particular person. However, this can be done independently, based on the following details:
- adjusting slings (to reduce weight and concentrate on the hips, you need to try setting the adjustment points);
- braces at the top of the product (patches located at the top of the bag on the straps, they prevent the back of the backpack from lagging behind the body and sagging in the lower back);
- stabilizing braces (should be as tight as possible, located at the bottom, connecting the waist belt with the bottom of the shoulder bag);
- chest screed (connects the straps in the chest area, provides stability, this is an important accessory for hiking on uneven terrain).
Professional experts in specialized stores will help you choose the right model and, if necessary, adjust for a specific person . However, to know the basic rules and methods of adjustment is necessary for further self-improvement.
