How to Balance Your Backpack Load When Hiking
The most important technique for packing a hiking backpack is to balance your burden. If you pack an excessive number of heavy objects, you will carry more weight than necessary. The same is true for equipment that is heavy and cumbersome. Your grandfather's old Boy Scout tent is probably not the best option for carrying lightweight camping equipment. No more than one-third of your body weight should be carried at a time. It's not a mission to the moon, but it is an invitation to a new experience. A well-balanced load will make you feel lighter and prevent back strain. The bulkiest goods should be placed in the middle of the pack, between the waist and the shoulders. Avoid placing your heaviest stuff on the exterior of your pack, as this will make it disproportionately unwieldy and heavy. Avoid placing items on the box's exterior, as doing so will cause you to be top- or rear-heavy. The weight distribution of your pack will also affect your trail comfort. Some packs offer ...