Backpacks
- scoutmaster1865
- Oct 1, 2024
- 3 min read
Philmonters
As promised, this is the first of several emails about equipment.
Each individual and each crew will need to have the proper equipment and know how to use that equipment. Do not break the bank buying a lot of fancy new gear now. You will end up wasting money on things you don’t need or that won’t really work for you. We’ll continue to put out useful videos and guides to help you understand what you need focusing on key items and put out the entire Philmont packing list in our first session about equipment which will be the subject of our second crew meeting.
This week, I’m going to talk about backpacks (or rucksacks if you’re an old Army guy like me). Everyone will need a quality, internal-frame backpacking backpack that is properly fitted to their body. You should plan to train with the pack you’ll hike with at Philmont as much as possible and make sure you keep adjusting the sizing as you grow throughout the year.
There is no need to run out and buy and expensive new pack for our first conditioning hikes but you should plan on having at least a good borrowed pack for our first overnight Shakedown Hike on November 22-24.
Here are some considerations when choosing and setting up your pack.
1. Capacity – Philmont recommends you bring a pack with a capacity of between 65 and 75 liters and we agree. A smaller pack will not have enough room for all your personal gear, crew gear, and food/supplies. A larger pack will encourage you to bring extra items “just in case,” that will have you carrying at least ten extra unneeded pounds on the trail.
2. Size – Make sure the pack you purchase is the correct size for your body. The key is to measure your torso length and choose the pack size that corresponds to the length of your body. See the video below on how to do this measurement. Different brands will have different size ranges to make sure you pick the right size. Also important here is the hip belt. You should be able to tighten it snuggly around your midsection, so the weight of the pack rests on your hips. If you’re small with a thin build, you may need to replace the belt with one that is short enough for you.
3. Fit – This is the most important thing. A poorly fitting pack will not distribute the weight properly, be uncomfortable, and make you work harder to carry the same weight the same distance. It’s like adding fifteen extra pounds to your pack. See the video below about how to adjust your pack to ensure it is properly fitted to your body. As the year goes on and you grow (or shrink if you’re an adult) you should constantly check to ensure you pack is still properly fitted.
4. Features – You don’t need to go crazy here. Most quality backpacking packs will have similar features, such as an upper and lower chamber and a “brain” or pouch (sometimes detachable) on the top of the pack. Access from the top and middle or side of the pack; pockets, loops and belts to hang bulky things externally; and belts to tighten and adjust the load are all usually standard. We encourage you to get a pack with an internal pocket for a water reservoir and a rain cover that is the right size for your pack.
5. Packing – We’ll have a class on this but remember a few rules. Pack heavier items lower and closer to your body and pack items you’ll need in a hurry where you can get them in a hurry. Then ensure the pack is closed tightly and the compression straps are pulled tight, so the load doesn’t shift
6. Brand – There is a Russian saying that translates into “you should never argue with someone over a matter of taste.” Check product review and buy a reputable brand. You can join Philmont and backpacking groups on social media where people will endlessly argue with each other about the superiority of their personal preferences. I like Osprey packs because I like them. If you like REI packs, then good for you. Don’t worry about brands. Worry about capacity, sizing, and fit.
Resources: Here are some useful videos that will help you choose, size, and pack your ruck.
How to Fit a Backpack:
How to Pack a Backpack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA9nSJ7RuYY
See you all at the crew meeting tomorrow!