Ensuring proper fit is the most important step when you select a pack. When looking for a backpack we recommend choosing a backpack that is no larger than 50 liters.
Finding the right pack size for you depends on your back length.
To find your back length, have a friend measure your back:
Find the most prominent vertebrae at the back of your neck. It’s the large bump at about the same level as the top of your shoulders
Find the top of your hipbone. Follow this point around in a straight line to your spine.
Place a measuring tape directly against your spine, and measure the distance between here and the large bump!
If you have a hip belt it should be resting directly over your hip bones, not on your waist. The shoulder straps should be well padded and fit snuggly to your shoulders.
If you can try on your pack walk around and play with the adjustments to fine-tune the fit. Remember to put weight in your pack when trying it on. Remember that if the pack doesn't feel right now, it certainly won't feel right after hours on the trail.
