Weight Distribution in Successful Backpacking

We all live and learn - Fact.

Many years ago my husband and I packed our rucksacks for our first camping trip. It was to be a backpacking trip that included carrying our small three-person ridge tent, cooking utensils, clothes, and other essentials.

There was no car or easy options. We were traveling by foot, bus and train but could I carry my rucksack?

As he helped me lift my rucksack onto my back, and let go of it, I literally fell over backward onto the floor.

I could not get up for quite a while partly because of the weight, but mainly because we were laughing so much.

It took us time to rearrange our backpacks and eventually we set off on our camping vacation.

Make sure your camping adventure gets off to a great start by packing appropriately.

Before you begin loading your backpack or rucksack adjust any straps and strapping.

Make sure that the pack will sit well on your back at a comfortable height.

So first things first, remember to be sensible and never pack more than you can possibly carry.

A weight that initially may feel fine, probably will not after you have been carrying it for some time.

If you have a rucksack with plenty of those little outer pockets try to spread the load into these also. If you even the load that you are carrying out it will make it seem a little lighter.

The weight will be more evenly distributed through your bones and joints as you move, and therefore be kinder on your hips, spine, knees, and feet in particular.

Put a few heavy things in the middle of your backpack and see what it feels like when you are carrying it.

Now split these items up and distribute them evenly around the backpack.

I bet when you put it on again it will feel lighter and more comfortable for your body.

Good packing should really aid your level of comfort.

If you are on a limited budget you may want to pack as much as possible rather than buy at your final destination. However, there are bound to be some inexpensive retailers within easy distance of your campsite.

If you want to take toiletries and sun creams with you decant them into smaller bottles and containers. Items such as shampoos need to be in the small travel sizes, not great big bottles which have a fair weight even when empty. I doubt you would even need huge bottles of shampoo and shower gel. Consider what you can use instead.

A good old-fashioned bar of soap may have various uses.

Always look at purchasing the lighter options of any goods that you may be packing. Items such as kettles can be bought in small lightweight travel versions.

Overall you need to be sensible and get savvy.

After all, it will be you who suffers the most if you make your self poorly or just cannot carry your backpack. Make sure that you have what you need but no unnecessary trimmings.

Try a trial run by packing and then attempting to carry your backpack around for a little while.

If you find that you are already struggling to carry the rucksack decide what you can leave behind.

Pack your bag well and you should have a great, pain free trip.