How Heavy Should Backpacking Be?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking is one of the best ways to explore the world and enjoy nature. However, in order to do so, you must have a backpack that is not too heavy or too light. This weight balance can be difficult to achieve, but it is essential for an enjoyable and safe experience.

When it comes to the ideal weight of a backpack, what works for one person might not be suitable for another. This will depend on factors such as your physical fitness level and the type of terrain that you will be travelling through. Generally speaking, your backpack should not weigh any more than 20% of your body weight if you are carrying all your supplies.

Start Light

It’s better to start with a lighter backpack and then add items as needed. This will help ensure that you are not overloading yourself with unnecessary items. If your backpack feels too heavy when you first start out, it will only get worse as you continue on your journey.

Choose Your Gear Carefully

When selecting gear for backpacking, focus on quality over quantity. Choose lightweight items that are durable and efficient for the type of outdoor activities that you plan to do. For example, a lightweight sleeping bag is much more efficient than carrying a large bulky one.

Organize Your Pack

Organizing your pack properly can make a huge difference in how heavy it feels on your back. Place heavier items near the top and center of the pack while lighter items should be placed at the bottom and sides. Also make sure that everything is packed securely so that it does not move around while you are walking.

Use Proper Posture

Your posture can also affect how heavy your backpack feels. Make sure to stand up straight with your shoulders back when wearing it to help distribute the weight evenly across your body. You may also want to consider investing in a supportive hip belt or chest strap which can help take some of the strain off of your shoulders.

Ultimately, how heavy a backpack should be depends on many factors including physical fitness level, terrain type and gear selection. Start out light by choosing quality gear and organizing it properly in order to make sure that you have an enjoyable backpacking experience without overloading yourself.

Conclusion: How heavy should backpacking be? The answer depends on several factors such as physical fitness level, terrain type and gear selection; however, generally speaking, try not to exceed 20% of your body weight when packing all supplies into a backpack for optimal comfort while travelling outdoors.