Written by Cam Honan (aka Swami)

ENO's Guide on How to Load a Backpack

A well loaded pack can mean the difference between being comfortable and uncomfortable out on the trail.

It is one of the simpler backpacking skills to learn, yet it seems to be a process that many hikers overlook.

There is such a big emphasis on what goes into packs, and relatively little in regards to how that gear should be distributed.

Comfort, stability and convenience are all enhanced in a well loaded backpack. It’s by no means rocket science, but it is a skill that’s worth taking the time to get right.

Here are five tips for loading a backpack:

1.  What Type of Pack?

If you are using a frameless pack, like the ENO Roan Tote Pack or ENO Roan Rolltop Pack, start by inserting your sleeping mat** into your backpack (either in cylinder form or flat against the back). If you have an internal frame pack begin with Step 2. For external frame users, take a good hard look at yourself and go and buy a different pack. 

2.  Waterproof

Line the inside of your backpack with a trash compacter bag. Cheap, light and effective. For extra protection, make the trash bag big enough so that you can either tie it off or fold the top over when the rain starts coming down in earnest.

3.  Bottom

I place my bivy sack and clothing items I will not need during the day (e.g. extra socks, rain pants, thermal underwear, insulation layer when it’s warm) at the bottom of the pack. Such gear is generally not excessively heavy, but its bulk provides a base upon which you can place weightier items (see below).

4.  Middle

Heavier objects such as food, water, and shelter systems (if you happen to be carrying more than a couple of litres) should be situated close to your back in the medium to upper regions of the pack.

Utilize your sleeping bag to fill the outer sections. This method has the dual benefits of keeping the pack’s centre of gravity close to your back, as well as helping to maintain the long term loft of your sleeping bag (i.e.less compression than when placed in a stuff sack and/or put at the bottom of your backpack).

5.  Top

For ease of access, put your snacks, shell, extra maps and any other items you think you may need during the day at the top of your pack (Note: smaller objects can also be placed in convenient hip, shoulder or side pockets).

** For frameless backpack users, if you have an inflatable mat such as a Thermarest NeoAir, I suggest folding it and putting it flat against your back. If it is not giving you the buffer you require when completely deflated, try leaving a little bit of air in it (only a smidgen, as you don’t want to run the risk of popping it).

Author Bio: 

Cam Honan, also known as Swami, is an avid hiker and traveler whose passion for exploring the world on foot has taken him to over 55 countries and more than 50,000 miles of trails. After moving to Mexico in 1993 with an intention to stay just a couple of years, he spent sixteen years immersed in Latin American culture, where he balanced work, yoga teaching, and volunteer efforts while also developing a deep love for the region. Wherever he went, his backpack, shelter, and sleeping bag followed, as did a growing connection to nature. His adventures across deserts, jungles, and mountains not only honed his backcountry skills but also revealed the beauty of simplicity and the profound clarity found in wild places.

*Some updates and changes have been made to this blog since it was originally published to reflect our current product line