HOW TO FIT A BACKPACK

Internal or External frame Backpacks

Get your measurements

Use cloth tape measure when measuring

Get your measurements

Measure your Torso

Measure from base of neck Find the most prominent (C7) vertebrae

Measure to the top of the hip bone Put hands on hips with thumbs just above the hip

bones Extend thumbs to center of back if needed

Get your measurements

Measure your Hips

Measure around your hips

Make sure not to measure too hight or too low Measure at the hips not at the waist or top of legs

(femur)

Choosing your Backpack

Choose your Backpack preference

Internal Frame Backpack

External Frame Backpack

Choosing your Backpack

Backpack should have an adjustment range that includes your measurements There are gender specific styles There are child specific styles

Should not be too big or too small Consider size needed for equipment and

clothing for most of your outings

Choosing your Backpack

Internal Frame Backpack

Pros Rests sung against back for greater stability

Lower center of gravity Great for rugged terrain or rock climbing Good for off trails

Cons Everything must go inside of the pack Usually more expensive than External framed

packs

Choosing your Backpack

External Frame Backpack

Pros Frame keeps pack off back

Cooler on hot days Good for hiking trails and camping trips Can attach gear to outside of bag

Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and tents More tie-downs on outside of pack

Can tend to be easier to pack Usually less expensive than Internal framed packs

Cons Can be less stable

Higher center of gravity

Preparing Backpack for fitting

Weight Backpack Fill pack with 20 – 25 pounds of bulky weight

Should be enough weight to determine fit

Loosen the 4 main straps Shoulder straps Shoulder strap load balancing straps Waist belt strap Waist belt load balancing straps

Hoisting the Backpack

Grasp pack by the hoisting handle and from one shoulder strap

Lift to knee and steady the pack Lift to shoulder and put arm through the

shoulder strap Lean forward to support pack and slip

other arm through the other shoulder strap Buckle waist belt just above the hips

Note: When hoisting pack, make sure you have plenty of room around you and are in a safe location. That way you will not fall off the cliff or into the river or knock anyone else down when shouldering your pack.

Adjust Backpack for Comfort

Adjust the Shoulder straps Tighten shoulder straps

Straps should fit over curve of shoulder Buckle the breast strap if you have one

Keeps the shoulder straps in place Should not constrict breathing

Adjust the shoulder load balancing straps Strap should incline at about a 45° angle

Adjust Backpack for Comfort

Adjust the Waist belt

Adjust the waist belt load balancing strap Tighten the waist belt for heavier loads

Pack may need additional adjustment during outings