Originally Posted by
Siarl
I'm not sure this is the correct forum but here goes. I've looked on youtube and Googled this subject but nothing really addresses the question. I've seen the gear lists and recommendations by thru hikers but no one really addresses how to pack the backpack. Is there a proper way to pack the sleeping bag, tent, sleeping pad etc on the backpack? I've seen videos where numerous hikers pack the sleeping pad strapped to the bottom outside the pack as well as the tent in a waterproof sack etc. Is there a specific link or video that would address this to a certain extent that someone is aware of? I realize that alot of this is a matter of weight distribution and personal preferences but it certainly would be helpful if I had a general idea of what others have done. Thanks.
Siarl
From a recent thread copied and pasted my response. Hope it helps. Keep i mind there is no right or wrong way....
Very similar to Firefighter (we're brothers so we often pack together) but I'm a Circuit. Note this was done this weekend and survived constant rain on Sunday and fall in the creek up to my waist (Creekfall!) on Saturday:
In contractor trash bag in bottom of pack and twisted to keep water tight:
sleeping bag (loose)
down jacket (loose)
camp clothes (in stuff sack)
On top of plastic bag (can get wet):
sleeping pad (either in sack (All season) or stacked on left side (3/4 ridgerest)
Pot - with stove, spoon, and bottom of water bottle to dip for water
Fuel (8 oz canister)
Long sleeve if needed during breaks
Food bag
Left pocket
Shelter (tarp or TT contrail)
Right pocket
2 1 Ltr platypus usually filled
Front Mesh
Diddy bag (Fak, TP, Advil, tums, etc)
Rain pants, Rain jacket
2 Ltr platypus (rolled up)
Booze
right hip
Aqua Mira, bear bag cord, knife
left hip
Camera (in ziplock), Lighter, Inhaler