A poorly fitted pack can lead to sore shoulders and bruised hips. Take the time to fit your pack properly and to adjust it on the trail as needed.

Key Considerations.

Determining the right pack hinges on factors not only of the backpack but also of the person who will be wearing it.

1. Pack considerations: type of pack, fit, capacity, weight, design features, organization.
2. Person considerations: type of activity, beginner vs. intermediate vs. advanced backpacker, woman vs. man, size of person.
l>Internal vs. external frame debate.
1. External frame backpack - keeps the hiker much more organized because of its multitude of pockets and compartments. It is easy to access whatever you need on the trail. Simply unzip or unclip the desired pocket. External frame packs transport heavy loads well, as they concentrate most of the weight on your hips.
   Their one main limitation is lack of flexibility.
2. Internal frame backpack - is more flexible because it "molds" to your back and moves with your body, unlike the more rigid external frame packs. The pack sits close to your back, distributing its weight to your back, hips and shoulders. This gives you greater balance than an external frame pack.
   One limitation is that it is basically one large compartment into which you stuff all of your belongings. More forethought is required in packing. Keep everything you need or the trail in the top or in side pockets.
   The internal pack was designed to meet the needs of rock climbers and mountaineers who need to have all of their belongings protected from weather and sharp rocks, and to keep their weight close to their center of gravity for good balance.
Getting the best fit.
1. Key components that determine backpack fit include the person's torso length and hip measurement; and the pack's frame size, shoulder strap size, and hip belt position.
2. Taking the time to fit your backpack before you hit the trail is extremely worthwhile. There are many steps involved in fitting/adjusting one's backpack. Start with all of the straps loosened, put the pack on, cinch the hip belt then the shoulder straps then the sternum straps. Trying the pack on with enough weight (~25 lbs.) to simulate a fully loaded pack will give you a more accurate feel.