Your Backpack Better Be Good For Camping 

Camping is an age-old activity that is perfect for singles, couples, and families alike. There is nothing quite like enjoying the great outdoors, especially during special times of the year such as fall, when the foliage is turning and the weather is not too hot or cold.

The right gear is an essential part of the camping equation and your choice in backpack is no exception. So much time is spent trying to get the right tent--is it waterproof, does it have enough room, will it withstand any big wind gusts? Then the next focus seems to be on the sleeping bag--will it be warm enough if the temperature rapidly drops; will I get a good night's sleep?

Though these are big concerns, between them and what food to take, the backpack will often become a second thought. Overlooking the importance of choosing the right camping backpack can put a real downer on your overall camping experience and even make an impact on your health, as you will soon see.

Many people think that paying a large sum for a backpack means it is the best one and of the highest quality. While it is true that you often get what you pay for, the best backpack on the market doesn't necessarily equate to being the best backpack for you.

Just because a backpack is rated the absolute best on the market doesn't mean you will be comfortable using it. Perhaps this backpack is too big for you, meaning you will strain to carry it and could even pull a muscle. The pack in question could be more of a winter pack, with compartments for such tools as an ice pick, axe, or snowshoes, none of which you would need if you were going camping in the spring or fall.

A good backpack is either an all-season one or one specifically meant for your needs. It can hold anything that you need for a hike (which many do as recreation while camping), and supplies for the trip itself, should you decide to camp in several places and need to carry your entire campsite to another location.

There are two types of camping backpacks--inside and outside frame. An inside frame pack will mold to your back and is good for shorter hikes, while the outside frame pack is bigger and better for longer treks, because it distributes the weight more evenly to reduce strain on your back. Try the outside frame for flatter terrains and the inside pack for more uneven paths, where the molding feature on the back will help you get up over the peaks and valleys.

No matter which pack you choose, it should have a good, padded hip belt. This also helps deflect weight from your back and forces you to use your legs a bit more, easing any potential strain. There are some special packs that are gender-specific. The best way to tell which one is right is to go to the store and try it out. Load it up with heavy items you may be toting with you, if possible. Don't worry, the store staff is likely used to this and won't think you are trying to steal! Walk around the store a few times and see which suits you best.

The average sturdy backpack with either type of frame can cost anywhere from $75 on sale to over $400 for the higher-end models. Though you may balk at the idea of spending so much, look at it this way--it is likely to be a one-time purchase and will pay for itself later. The price of doctor visits, prescriptions, and missed workdays due to strained backs or pulled muscles far outweighs the high cost of the backpack.

Wrap items in plastic before putting in your pack in case they leak or get wet; this will protect your pack and ensure longevity. A cover for the entire pack in case of rain or water soaking is an inexpensive, but worthwhile investment, as well.

We also offer some backpacks for your consideration.