How to Pick Out and Get Fitted for the Perfect Backpack

Big purchases are just that… big purchases. It takes me a while to commit to something that is going to last a long time and that costs more than the casual couple of dollars. Backpacks fall into this category for me, so I got with our camping equipment expert, Brad (you might have seen him on some of our live events on Facebook!) to get a really good rundown on not only how to pick out the perfect pack, but also how to make sure you get the one that fits.

First and foremost, when you are checking out backpacks, it is really important to get specific about how you are going to be using this pack. Like, you don’t want an ultra-lightweight string bag if you are heading out for an all-day, moderately strenuous hike. Just like you really wouldn’t want a 50L pack for your 2-hour leisurely walk through the woods. Another important aspect to take into consideration while hunting for the perfect bag is to look at how often you plan to use it. There are various price points both for day packs and backpacks, and it definitely makes sense to splurge on a higher end pack if you know you will be using it constantly.
 
Day Packs: perfect for day trips and hikes
Day packs are just that – packs designed for shorter excursions (think a day or less… get it? Day pack…?), so you wouldn’t need a pack that has room for things like a tent. You can snag a bag that has all the bells and whistles (we will get to features in a minute!) or something incredibly simple (like the string bags).
 
Backpacks: ideal for overnight backpack camping adventures
For overnight trips, backpacks are the best option. They come in plenty of size options, from youth to men to women, and then there are even different size options within those categories, ensuring you can get the perfect fit. You can also choose from various levels of price points, depending on how much you want to spend based on how often you will be using it.

Once you’ve decided on primary pack function (day hiking or overnight adventures), it’s time to look at features that are necessary to you. Again, are you looking for a simplistic catch all or do you just have to have pockets for everything?
 
Day Packs
String bags are better for lightweight loads and shorter walks, as they tend to lack the ability to really adjust them to a certain fit (minus some clever knots!), whereas something like the Camelbak gives you both pocket options and other compartments for your necessities, making it perfect for longer day adventures.
 
Backpacks
For the most part, backpacks designed for overnight hiking are going to start out with more compartments and pockets, but there are some options that don’t include a “brain” (that top lid compartment that can hold a lot of your quick-grab essentials) and that don’t have a ton of outer pockets or internal chambers to separate gear. As far as more complex packs go, there are options with built-in rain covers, sleeping bag compartments, external straps to secure your tent to the outside (really great for if your tent is damp, so you don’t have to stuff a wet tent into your backpack).

Getting the proper fit for a backpack is really important. You can get away with a day pack being a little imperfect, but carrying the larger load required for overnight treks can wreak havoc on your body if the backpack fit is not quite right.

Male vs. Female vs. Youth
There are a few details that must be taken into consideration around picking between male/female/youth backpacks. In a nutshell, the main difference between male and female backpacks is the torso length, width of the shoulder straps, and hipbelt adjustments. Youth backpacks often offer smaller capacities and more adjustable suspensions to account for growth. As a rule of thumb, the Osprey packs are a bit more adjustable and youth-friendly because of that… BUT here’s the thing – everyone’s body is different, so pay attention to measurements and remember – YOU know your body type the best!

How to Measure for Fit at Home
Right now, it can be a bit tough to pop into your local Scout Shop to get measured for that perfect fit, but no worries! You can definitely measure for a great fit at home.
1.     Measure your torso
2.     Measure your waist/hips
3.     Do you have broad shoulders or narrow shoulders?
a.     Narrow – female or youth pack
b.     Broad – male pack

Backpacks

• Osprey Stratos 36L: This smaller-sized backpack could work for a combo daypack/overnight backpack, but it is on the larger size to go for full-day pack style. It’s got some great adjustability (just like all the Osprey packs) and hidey holes for every essential you could think of! Ventilated mesh back panel for increased comfort
  Internal sleeve for a water reservoir
  Sleeping bag compartment
  Rain cover for all-weather use included
  Dual side compression straps
  • Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
  • Ice tool loop with bungee tie-off
  • Fixed top-lid with zippered slash pocket
  • Front panel vertical center zippered pocket
  • Zippered stretch mesh hipbelt pockets
  • ErgoPull hipbelt closure (28” – 50”)
  • Seamless lumbar to hipbelt body wrap
  • Adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle
  • Mesh covered ventilated die-cut foam
  • Torso adjustability (19” – 23”)
  • Weighs in at about 3.3lbs
• BSA Ultralight 50L: Both of the BSA models are perfect for backpacking “lite” adventurers. They aren’t quite as decked out or as adjustable as the Osprey packs, but they are durable packs at a lower price point! Five exterior pockets for quick essentials-access
  • Sleeping bag compartment
  • Hydration reservoir compatible
  • Torso adjustability (15” – 21”)
  • Adjustable hipbelt (27” – 46”)
  • Weighs in at 3.38lbs
• Osprey Aether 85L (Men’s Medium or Large Frame): This ultra-technical backpack is the largest of the packs we carry and designed for long term thru-way backpack hiking. Like the Atmos, it comes in a medium or a large frame so you can make sure that you get an exact fit.
  • Dual front compression straps with StraightJacket compression
  • Removable floating top lid that turns into a daypack with dual zippered pockets and web attachment points
  • Large stretch mesh front panel pocket
  • Zippered hipbelt pockets
  • Dual ice tool loops with bungee tie-offs
  • Lower InsideOut compression straps
  • Dual access side stretch mesh pockets
  • Zippered sleeping bag compartment with removable divider
  • Internal hydration reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L reservoir
  • Removable sleeping pad straps
  • Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment
  • Adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle
  • Torso adjustability (Medium: 18” – 21” ; Large: 20” – 23”)
  • Adjustable hipbelt (Medium: 30” – 34” ; Large: 33” – 37”)
  • Weighs in at (Medium: 5.37lbs ; Large: 5.42lbs)

ENO Roan Classic Backpack: Adventure? Meet everyday life. The 20L ENO Roan Pack bridges the gap between lifestyle and technical packs with its clean, calculated design and essential features.

• Stay hydrated: Dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets, and hydration bladder compatible.
• Stay organized: Multiple internal and external pockets, plus a hidden stash pocket.
• Stay connected: Internal 13” laptop sleeve.
• Stay comfortable: Custom-molded foam back panel, padded shoulder straps, adjustable or removable sternum strap, and stowable waist strap.
• Durable and weather-resistant
• Made from 100% post-consumer recycled fabrics.

Like I said earlier, picking out the perfect backpack is a bit of a commitment and worth the time spent researching. Breaking it down to function, features and fit really helps. Remember, each body is different and give yourself the time to explore each section to make sure you grab the one that’s right for you.
 
Once you’ve got your perfect backpack picked out, check out our blog with our top tips on packing your backpack! There is definitely a bit of a method to it to maximize the best weight distribution and for efficiency.