BackpacksRob Foley

+ MITOC presenters of years pastJanuary 5th, 2016

MITOC Winter School 2016

BACKPACK DUDE

Fit your body… …fit

your trip!

Frameless Backpack

You probably already own one!

Lightweight and inexpensive

Good for shorter day hikes Does not transmit load to

hips = cannot carry heavy loads

External Frame Backpack “Old-School” Larger profile = bad

for bushwhacking and high wind

Weight is carried higher = efficient load transfer on flatter ground, poor balance on steeper ground

Flexible packing options = easier access to things

Metal frame = conducts heat away from body!

Internal Frame Backpack Most common now Weight is carried lower =

good balance, but less efficient load transfer (you walk less upright)

Smaller profile = better for bushwacking and high winds

Can’t strap random junk on outside as easily

Things to ConsiderVolume

Summer day hike: 1000-2000 cubic in. (15-30 liters)

Winter day hike/summer overnight: 1500-3500 cubic in. (25-55 liters)

Winter overnight/summer multi-day: 3500-5000 cubic in. (55-80 liters)

Longer trips: 5000+ cubic in. (80+ liters)

Accessibility Distance-to-a-zipper Effect on weight distribution Multi-compartment

Fitting 1) Check Torso length (S/M/L)

Try them on! Adjustable stays (internal)

2) With weight in pack: Loosen all straps Put on shoulders and tighten hip belt Tighten shoulder straps Adjust load lifters and chest strap

3) Readjust as necessary throughout the day4) Ask for help! Pack buddies

Packing: Weight Distribution

Heaviest items near your back,

not too low

Weight distribution near the middle (weight moves with you)

Keep important items accessible!

Packing: Easy Access•Unlikely-to-be-needed items on bottom (sleeping bag, emergency shelter)•Keep handy on top (or pockets):• Hat, balaclava, gloves• Map, compass, headlamp• Snack food ----Happiness • Rain gear

•Always keep whistle on outside of pack – use when stuck•For water bottles, keep them insulated but accessible•Ice axe, crampons, other pointy-things on outside of pack

Questions?