1. Internal or External frame Backpacks

2. Use cloth tape measure when measuring

3. Measure your Torso Measure from base of neck Find the most prominent (C7) vertebrae Measure to the top of the hip bone Put hands on hips with thumbs just above the hip bones Extend thumbs to center of back if needed

4. Measure your Hips Measure around your hips Make sure not to measure too hight or too low Measure at the hips not at the waist or top of legs (femur)

5. Choose your Backpack preference Internal Frame Backpack External Frame Backpack

6. Backpack should have an adjustment range that includes your measurements There are gender specific styles There are child specific styles Should not be too big or too small Consider size needed for equipment and clothing for most of your outings

7. Internal Frame Backpack Pros Rests sung against back for greater stability Lower center of gravity Great for rugged terrain or rock climbing Good for off trails Cons Everything must go inside of the pack Usually more expensive than External framed packs

8. External Frame Backpack Pros Frame keeps pack off back Cooler on hot days Good for hiking trails and camping trips Can attach gear to outside of bag Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and tents More tie-downs on outside of pack Can tend to be easier to pack Usually less expensive than Internal framed packs Cons Can be less stable Higher center of gravity

9. Weight Backpack Fill pack with 20 – 25 pounds of bulky weight Should be enough weight to determine fit Loosen the 4 main straps Shoulder straps Shoulder strap load balancing straps Waist belt strap Waist belt load balancing straps

10. Grasp pack by the hoisting handle and from one shoulder strap Lift to knee and steady the pack Lift to shoulder and put arm through the shoulder strap Lean forward to support pack and slip other arm through the other shoulder strap Buckle waist belt just above the hips Note: When hoisting pack, make sure you have plenty of room around you and are in a safe location. That way you will not fall off the cliff or into the river or knock anyone else down when shouldering your pack.

11. Adjust the Shoulder straps Tighten shoulder straps Straps should fit over curve of shoulder Buckle the breast strap if you have one Keeps the shoulder straps in place Should not constrict breathing Adjust the shoulder load balancing straps Strap should incline at about a 45° angle

12. Adjust the Waist belt Adjust the waist belt load balancing strap Tighten the waist belt for heavier loads Pack may need additional adjustment during outings