Anatomy of a Backpack

I have seen most of the backpackers carrying big packs but cannot utilize much of their bag. The bag we are using is the most important tool that we should maximize in terms of its usage. It is our friend that keep our things safe, and can be used in time of unfortunate situations, such as entrapment, or accident. I think everyone's familiar about Dora right? Have you seen Dora without her backpack? Personally, I haven't seen her without the backpack, and as we can see she plays an image to the kids and to us, kids at heart, that our bag is our friend that contains everything that we need. 

I would also like to highlight the value/role our bag plays. As a traveler, we should emphasize investing our money in buying the right bag for our need. For an instance, we just want to mingle in a beach for a day, so why will you mind bringing your 80L backpack containing only your clothes in it? You can say I may be somehow ridiculous at this one, but I will doubt if you haven't done it or no one ever does it, (and my husband is a perfect example for this one, LOL!). He really loved his backpack that he wanted to use it anywhere we go, even in going to mall, because of its durability & its signature label (tatak), but that was years ago. Thank God he realized that investing in different bags is good; he invested in a small backpack for day hike, and our old, big one for long trips.

In this article I will feature the parts of a backpack and its use.

Here is a top-loading backpack from Sierratradingpost:

The Top Pocket Lid & Front Pocket are easy to access part for your things. The Compression Straps are usually located at the side, use to tighten the bag to limit load rearrangement. The Ice Axe Loops is a loop where you can put your inverted ax, then strapped the ax to back to keep it safe. The Daisy Chains are straps where a carabiner can be placed to hang your things like utensil or slippers, this can also be used to hang wet clothes using a carabiner; the other version (like shoestrings) is a place where you can insert your sleeping bags or wet shirt. Buy Shoulder Straps that are broader and foamy if you want to carry heavy load. Sternum Strap created prevent from pulling back your shoulders. The Hip Belt helps make the weight closer to your body. Make sure it is soft with broad padding. 

You can also choose bag with Hydration System - it has a built-in bladder with a drinking tube. For bag without hydration system, you can buy a reservoir, tube and mouthpiece at your favorite outdoor shop. You can also have a Rain Cover or Splash Cover to make your bag waterproof. You can also buy backpack with Ventilated Back that creates a space between your bag and back that allows ventilation.

Here is a snap picture of my husband's backpack when he went to Mt. Pulag. He had an orange bag/rain cover, for he loves neon/striking colors, with his extra slippers hooked. 

Happy hiking everyone! Feel free to comment if this article helped you!

-PinayNursingMom-