How to pack a backpack properly

Your next adventure awaits – backpack, equipment, anticipation: everything is ready. Only one question remains – how do you pack your backpack correctly? Anyone who has ever been on tour with straps that pinch, poor balance or back pain knows how crucial the right packing technique can be. A well-packed backpack is more comfortable, safer and saves valuable energy on long distances. After all, an athletic person can carry up to 25 percent of their body weight on longer tours – provided the weight is well distributed.

This is what a good weight distribution in a backpack looks like. Make sure you don’t take too much gear with you. You can read how to adjust the individual straps correctly in the following text. Photo: Sport Conrad

Large and lightweight items at the bottom

Bulky but lightweight items should be stowed at the bottom of the rucksack – often in the bottom compartment. These include a sleeping bag, a down jacket or a soft travel pillow. This compartment should be well filled so that the backpack remains stable from below and does not slip when walking. The bottom compartment can also be used to transport wet clothing or shoes, as it is designed as a wet compartment in many models. An even distribution of these lightweight parts ensures a solid base for the entire carrying system.

Heavy items on the back

The heaviest items should be placed in the middle section of the backpack, as close to the back as possible. This ensures a balanced center of gravity and prevents the backpack from pulling backwards. This space is ideal for a hydration bladder, cooking utensils, tent poles or other compact, heavy equipment. The closer these items are to your back, the easier it is to carry the backpack – especially on longer stages or in alpine terrain.

Clothing and provisions in the main compartment

The main compartment is the central storage space for touring clothing, provisions and accessories that do not need to be immediately at hand. Shirts, pants, socks, snacks and even a first aid kit can be stored here. Ideally, you should place the latter at the top so that you can access it quickly in an emergency. To make the best use of the available space, we recommend sorting clothes into flexible packing bags – this not only saves space, but also keeps your luggage tidy.

Light equipment in the outer pockets

Anything that is needed more frequently on the move and does not weigh a lot should be stowed in the side or front pockets. This includes, for example, muesli bars, a rain jacket or gaiters. These pockets allow you quick access without having to open the backpack completely every time. However, make sure that the weight is distributed as evenly as possible on both sides to avoid unbalanced loads – this protects your shoulders and back and prevents uncomfortable swaying when walking.

Small items and fragile items in the lid compartment

Small, fragile or particularly important items can be stored in the lid compartment. Whether it’s a wallet, headlamp, sunglasses or cell phone – everything you need regularly and want to have quickly to hand belongs here. However, be careful not to overload the lid pocket. A lid that is too heavy or too full changes the backpack’s center of gravity and can restrict your freedom of movement, especially in difficult terrain – especially if you are frequently looking upwards.

Do not attach anything to the outside

Even if it seems tempting to attach equipment to the outside of your rucksack, this should be avoided if possible. Objects dangling around shift the center of gravity, interfere with walking and can easily get caught on branches, rocks or other obstacles. The exception is sturdily attached items such as hiking poles, ice axes or a sleeping mat if they cannot be stowed inside. However, the basic rule is: whatever fits in the backpack, fits in.

Better high than wide

A well-packed backpack is built up higher rather than wider. This keeps the pack closer to your body’s center of gravity, which increases stability and aids balance. A high-packed backpack is easier to control, especially on narrow paths or exposed terrain. So avoid a “bulbous” packing style that shifts the weight outwards – this saves energy and makes every movement more efficient.

Important: The bottom compartment should be well filled so that the backpack is stable. Photo: Deuter

Adjust your backpack correctly

In addition to the packing technique, the fit of the backpack is also crucial for comfort and health. The backpack should fit the length of your back – many models are now available in different back lengths and are also adapted for men and women. It is best to proceed systematically when putting on and adjusting the backpack.

First, fasten the hip belt. It carries the majority of the weight and should sit in the middle of the iliac crest – neither too high nor too low. Then tighten the shoulder straps so that the backpack fits snugly but comfortably on your back. The load control straps, small straps at the upper ends of the shoulder straps, pull the pack closer to the body and thus improve balance – especially when climbing or on narrow climbs. The chest strap connects the shoulder straps at chest height and ensures that the backpack sits stably without restricting arm freedom – particularly helpful when walking with trekking poles.

A short test run – for example over a few steps or on uneven terrain – quickly shows whether the fit is right or needs to be readjusted. This ensures that the backpack does not cause any pressure points, even on longer distances.

The backpack must fit your back length, and there are now also extra women’s and men’s models. Photo: Black Diamond

Small tips for great tours

To optimize your packing technique even further, you can rely on ultra-light products. These save weight and are easier to compress – ideal for longer tours with lots of luggage. Waterproof pack sacks help to keep things tidy and protect clothing or electronics from the rain. On steep terrain, it often makes sense to lower the center of gravity a little – to hip height – as your body weight shifts forward anyway when climbing. Also make sure you regularly switch between shoulder and hip carry. This takes the strain off your muscles, prevents fatigue and adds variety to your movements.

With the right packing strategy, well-coordinated equipment and an optimally adjusted backpack, nothing will stand in the way of your next adventure. Whether you are planning a relaxed hut tour, an ambitious summit destination or a multi-day trekking trip – a cleverly packed backpack is your faithful companion and ensures that you are relaxed and safe on the go.

Some inspiration from our backpack range:

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