How Do You Adjust a Backpacking Pack?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking is an incredible way to explore and enjoy the outdoors, but having the right backpack can make your journey a lot more comfortable. Adjusting your pack correctly is key in making sure that it fits snugly and securely to your body, so that you can carry all of your essential gear with ease and comfort while you’re out on the trails.

The first step in adjusting a backpacking pack is to make sure that the hip belt fits snugly around your hips. The hip belt should fit comfortably and not too tightly, with the waistbelt sitting above your hips bones.

In order to make sure that the waistbelt is sitting in the correct spot, it’s helpful to use a mirror or have someone else double-check for you when tightening it up.

Once you have the hip belt adjusted properly, it’s time to adjust the shoulder straps. You want them adjusted so that they are tight enough to keep the weight of the pack close to your body, but not so tight that they are digging into your shoulders or causing discomfort. It may take some trial and error to get them adjusted properly, but once you find a good fit they should stay in place without any further adjustments.

Finally, adjust the load lifters which will help evenly distribute weight along your back. These straps should be set so they are at a 45 degree angle from the shoulder straps when viewed from behind. This will keep most of weight close to your center of gravity which will help reduce strain on your lower back as you carry it over long distances.

Conclusion:
Adjusting a backpacking pack correctly is essential for enjoying comfortable hikes with all of your gear safely stored away. Start by adjusting the hip belt so it sits above the hips bones and then proceed to adjust both shoulder straps and load lifters for an even weight distribution over long distances. With some patience and trial-and-error, you’ll be able to find a fit that helps you enjoy every step of your journey!