This episode is all about finding and fitting the right backpack for your next wilderness adventure. Your backpack is a critical tool that will greatly effect your enjoyment on the trail. If you hate how your pack feels, you're really going to hate your hike. Choosing the perfect backpack for your treks is greatly dependent on your personal preferences and your hiking style. So take time and choose a backpack that will fit you well. In this episode we'll cover: 1) Key Measurements - Choosing a pack to fit your body type is generally a function of two simple measurements, your torso length and your hip size. 2) Backpack Volume - One important size consideration for buying a new pack is its capacity. It is common for lightweight backpackers to use a pack that holds around 50 Liters of volume or less. Backpackers carrying heavier loads should choose a pack that will hold around 60-70 Liters of volume. 3) Pack Adjustments - Start off by adjusting your hip belt. Your hip belt is meant to be the main load-bearing element of the pack. Next, adjust your shoulder straps. Your shoulder straps are the second load-bearing element of your pack, but shouldn’t carry as much weight as your hips. Load lifter straps are located on top of your shoulder straps and they help to take pressure off of the top of your shoulders by pulling the weight of your backpack closer to your back. Sternum straps are designed to pull your shoulder straps closer together, which will release some of the backwards pulling tension of your shoulder straps. Cinch straps can be used to compress the weight of your bag closer to your back and make your pack more efficient to carry. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments to your pack throughout the day while you hike. I often find that I make small adjustments to let up pressure when certain parts of my body start feeling sore. Remember, with a really light bag it’s easy to make quick adjustments that will allow you to hike comfortably. And when you’re more comfortable while you hike, you’re going to have much better time on your trip.

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