1. Aim the weight of each item to allocate a reasonable position
Heavy objects such as mini gas stoves, food … should stand upright close to the back and two sides of the backpack. This helps balance the weight for the wearer. However, be careful with objects that are too hard or sharp because they will stab your back if the backpack does not have a back cushion.
Foldable lightweight items like a raincoat on top or in a pocket on the top of a backpack if available for quick access. The rest of the items that do not need to be used on the way to the camping site such as sleeping bags, mini gas cylinders … should be placed on the bottom, and at the same time as a cushion to protect the remaining things in the bag if the backpack is dropped.
2. Use soft, small objects to fill the gaps between hard tools, reducing collisions when climbing. No one likes the “jingling” sound that comes out when climbing, so it is recommended to use a spare T-shirt or the body of the tent … wrap around cooking utensils, stainless steel, metal objects …
3. Frequently used things should be arranged in an easy-to-find place. Sunscreen, medicine … tucked in the side of the backpack will help you take it out easily when needed. Clearly classify each item, especially medicine, to avoid confusion in an emergency.
4. Be careful when packing bottles or jars with water. Take a few seconds to check that the bottle cap is tightly closed to make sure no water is leaking. It is best not to bring a bottle with a spray nozzle. Keep these water bottles away from food.
5. Use a plastic bag or waterproof box to wrap things that can’t get wet such as phones… During the journey, you are likely to wade through streams, rivers, etc., leading to the backpack will definitely get wet. Using a waterproof holster or an electronic box is safer than the transparent plastic waterproof bags commonly available on the market.
6. Vacuum bags for packing items that take up space like sleeping bags are a great way to save space. You will save a huge amount of space in your backpack if you use this item.
7. Always pay attention to the constant temperature change because the higher you climb, the lower the decrease. If trekking at the top of a lot of snow, even freezing, you should keep drinking water and backup batteries, mobile phones… close to your body because the battery can drop very quickly in the cold.
8. Tie the items you tie outside. Side hooks such as glove straps, headbands, trekking sticks, etc. can get entangled in trees or bushes, tearing and dropping items in the backpack.
9. Let everything dry before moving on if you get wet. Clothes, tent fabric… will smell very unpleasant when it gets wet. Things made from sweat-absorbent materials such as climbing hats, gloves, etc., should be hung outside when not in use.
10. Rearrange your belongings before going at least twice to check if anything is missing. This is a necessity to remember the location of items in the backpack.
