Backpacks

Types and Features

An excellent article on ABC-OF-HIKING.COM covers the types of backpack and the features to look for.

As the article suggests, your first decision is whether to have and internal or external frame pack. Internal frame packs are the more recent innovation and are considered better for balance. It tends to be trickier to attach large objects to the outside of an internal frame pack.

Take a look at the Backpack Buying Guide in the May 2009 issue of Boys Life.

Specific Packs

Coyote 4750 by Kelty

This internal frame pack works well for people with narrow shoulders, so it works for boys. Some of its key features:

Top panel is height adjustable and converts to a fanny pack
Back panel provides access to entire main compartment, has webbing inside to keep things from spilling out.
The suspension is attached to the main portion of the pack with Velco to make it height adjustable.
Two side pouches and two elastic water bottle pouches.

Kelty also makes many other models of various sizes. This brand seems to be the most popular in our troop.

Mountainsmith makes an assortment of packs. Their current models appear to include only internal frame backpacks.

Alps Mountaineering makes two packs, both are internal frame design.

Weight / Packing

It is important to ensure that each boy stay within his limit on weight. Exceeding a boy's limit will tend to result in a greatly reduced ability to handle the trail (shorter time and distance). Smaller boys (60-80 pounds) should not carry more than 1/4 body weight, which is extremely challenging. They can move up to a 1/3 body weight as they get stronger and more experienced.

Fit

Fitting (adjusting) the backpack to the wearer is just as important to comfort and success as buying the right backpack. The most important rule about fitting the pack:

Adjust the belt so that it sits on the top of the hips. This generally puts the belt across the navel. Keeping the belt here leaves the shoulders to balance, not carry, the weight. This reduces back fatigue and shoulder soreness and makes breathing easier.

Page updated 6/16/09.