All the equipment has been decided. Techniques for moving on flat ice

I believe that a good backpack is the second most important element of your gear after shoes. I would highlight three qualities of the “right backpack” - convenience, functionality and reliability. Comfort is how well the backpack fits your body. For small backpacks this factor is insignificant, for large ones (from 60 liters) it is very important. Functionality is more complicated. There is no perfect backpack for all occasions. If you are looking for maximum functionality and convenience, then you will need to have from three to six backpacks: one large expedition backpack for long (more than a week) autonomous hikes, a second for hikes of two days to a week, and a third for city walks. And if you ski, bike or mountaineer, you will need a separate backpack for each activity!

With reliability everything is simpler. If you want to be 100% confident in your backpack, buy a backpack from trusted companies. American The North Face (full range of backpacks), Black Diamond (backpacks for mountaineering and climbing), Osprey (the widest line of ultra-functional backpacks), legendary freeride backpacks Dakine and Evoc. Strong and reliable German backpacks from the brands Deuter (excellent strong backpacks in almost all segments), Tatonka (especially strong in large and strong, “conda” expedition backpacks), Vaude (the widest line of very well-thought-out cycling backpacks), French Salomon and Italian Camp for multisport, as well as Swedish super backpacks for the city from the Thule brand.

BERGANS Trollhetta

Bergans Trollhetta expedition backpack

FJÄLLRÄVEN Abisko 45 Friluft

Year of purchase: 2018.

Purpose: backpack for technical hiking for trips for 3-5 days

OSPREY Exos 38

Year of purchase: 2015.

Purpose: backpack for multi-day hikes in the "fast & light" style.

Year after year I move towards replacing old and heavy equipment with lighter and more comfortable ones. While researching what the modern backpack industry has to offer, I quickly came to the OSPREY Exos series backpacks. Still, this company in the last five years, it feels like, has dramatically taken the lead in the field of creating comfortable backpacks, and the performance characteristics of this model caused complete delight - a ventilated back, three external pockets on an elastic mesh, a removable flap and, at the same time, incredibly low weight. Sounds like a dream?!

The three most important reasons why I chose this backpack:

• When you try on empty backpacks, they are all great! But to really test how a backpack will behave in combat, you can only simulate a weight close to the planned hiking loads and try to walk around with it, at least around the store, for 15-20 minutes. Having loaded it with 10 kg of weight calculated for my purposes (that’s how much all my equipment weighs for a typical week-long summer hike), I realized what’s going on - the backpack is incredible comfortable. How is comfort achieved in OSPREY Exos backpacks? Firstly, this special mesh, stretched over a lightweight aluminum frame hidden inside. This makes it possible to remove hot air from the back surface to which the backpack is adjacent. Would you say that this is a whim? Previously, I didn’t pay attention to this either, but after walking around the Western Caucasus and the Alps on hot summer days, I realized that I wanted my back to remain dry for as long as possible. This is not only comfort, but also, in the end, health. Have you tried to sit at a rest stop on a mountain pass for at least 15 minutes? That's the same! Nobody likes a wet back! Solutions like “mesh on the back” used to make me skeptical (such backpacks are often very roomy), but this one is sewn very correctly and its internal volume is an honest 38 declared liters! No fools! In addition, the shoulder straps and belt of the backpack are made of clever materials, due to which they also remove heat from the surface of the body under the straps and belt. This is also a contribution to the “dry back” treasury.
• Functionality. The backpack has the most convenient pockets, including on the shoulder straps, as well as a removable flap (very important on the road, you can even use it as a belt bag or put all the important little things in it and take it as hand luggage on an airplane), has a large elastic pocket on the front sides (I love it!!!). It's incredibly cool and really very convenient. If I have a backpack like this on a hike, these pockets are always filled with useful stuff that is constantly needed on a hike. Usually, there is fleece and a waterproof pants-jacket set.
• Low weight the backpack itself. Agree, it’s stupid to carry 8-10 kilograms of equipment in a backpack weighing 2-2.5 kilograms! Therefore, the opportunity to have a backpack of this level of comfort and volume that weighs only 1 kg is really right!!

Of course, no backpack is perfect. This is an axiom. That is why I have more than ten backpacks for different hiking purposes and tasks. Unfortunately, this backpack is not ideal either. I must point out the following important features of the Osprey EXOS series backpacks:

• Included with these backpacks no rain cover. Nonsense! Of course, the material from which the backpack is made will certainly withstand light rain, but not a serious and prolonged downpour. I don’t want to take risks, and the weather in the mountains can be anything. In addition, when the backpack, for example, is not put away at night in the vestibule of the tent, but remains on the street, then there is no alternative to raincover. In short, I had to spend extra money and buy a raincover. True, I have an assumption that explains this sad fact: I know for sure that there are two irreconcilable camps of tourists - those who love “camouflage and darker” and the mountaineering brethren, who believe, not without reason, that all the equipment and the cover on a backpack is no exception; it should be bright for passive safety purposes. I want to believe that the guys from OSPREY decided that let the buyer choose the color of the raincover himself, and the backpack, due to the fact that the cover is not included, will be cheaper by a thousand or two.
• The fact is that the lightweighting of the backpack is achieved, among other things, by using, where this is not critical, lightweight materials, and on the external fittings of the backpack there are always a lot of small parts that, in the process of moving along the transport belt and further to the plane, can cost something to get caught / come off / get lost. Therefore, if you don’t want your backpack after a flight to be smeared with fuel oil, stink of fish or stupidly torn, it must be packed in some outer case. The right brands sell these things and, if you fly often enough, they really make sense. Well, or, wrap your backpack in protective film every time.
• Until I figured it out strange valve shape OSPREY Exos. If the backpack is completely stuffed, the valve does not cover the entire top part of the backpack. If you put something small under the valve (and this is often very convenient) there is a high chance of dropping it.
• I also don’t understand why there are some kind of elastic pockets in the lower parts of the side elastic pockets strange side holes! I suspect that the designers’ idea was that all sorts of long and elongated objects (a tent, a rug) can be placed much better in these pockets, but in fact, if small things (raincover, gloves, a snack) end up there, that’s also may get lost. It turns out that only the flap, back pocket or pockets on the belt are suitable for carrying small items.

For six months from the moment of making the decision until these backpacks arrived at Sport Marathon, I planned to take the 38-liter version. But when the backpacks finally arrived, I first grabbed the medium version with a volume of 48 liters. The logic was simple - an extra 10 liters of additional volume will never hurt.

However, having loaded it under the hood (about 15 kg), I realized that this series of backpacks is really designed for hiking with light equipment and loading it with such weight is pointless and stupid, and the most successful version of this series is precisely the volume of 38 liters, just designed for a working weight of 8-10 kg. BINGO!! Exactly what I need.

At the final stage, it was also necessary to choose the size of this backpack, since these American backpacks are produced with a non-adjustable back. In this Osprey series, like many American and almost all ultra-light backpacks, in order to reduce weight, the option of the system for adjusting the height of the shoulder straps, which is classic for tourist backpacks, is “disabled”. Instead, the backpacks come in three sizes - S, M and L. It took me almost half an hour of fitting in the store to load the backpacks of all three sizes with working weight and see how they fit on the back. To be on the safe side, I measured myself with a special “branded” Osprey ruler to determine the size of the backpack and realized that for my height and build (173 cm and 77 kg), as expected, I needed a back length of size “M”.

Characteristics:

• Volume: 38 l.
• Estimated weight of carried equipment: 10 - 15 kg
• Weight: 1050 g
• Price: 9490 rub. (2015)

So far, the backpack is completely new and has only been on two hikes with a total duration of 15 days: an autumn walk to the Bzerpinsky cornice with an overnight stay and a week-long hike in the Swiss Alps. In a year, when the experience of hiking with this backpack will be more significant, I will definitely supplement this review with my notes after actual use! But for now I can say one thing - the backpack sits incredibly comfortably on your back! It sits so damn great, it’s like being hugged by the woman you love. During my hiking practice, I have carried more than 20 models of backpacks and I can say with 100% confidence that this is the MOST COMFORTABLE BACKPACK that I have ever tried. And yes, despite the heat, my back is really dry!! The place came true. Still, the designers from OSPREY PACKS clearly sold their souls to the devil in exchange for secret knowledge about the ergonomics of backpacks!!!

• Manufacturer's website: ospreypacks.com
• Osprey Exos backpacks in the Sport-Marathon store

SALOMON Sky 30

Year of purchase: 2014.

Purpose: backpack for 1-2 day hikes and 3-4 day summer hikes in Fast&Light style.

First of all, this backpack was bought for ultrahiking in the Alps and further two-day hikes in the Fast&Light style. The Deuter Explorer 35 backpack, which is already 10 years old, is obsolete. By today's standards it is heavy and very uncomfortable. The back and the ever-dangling valve are hell. It's time for a replacement!

The requirements for the backpack were as follows:

• ventilated back (who loves a wet back?)
• Possibility to attach skis for winter ski touring
• convenience (pockets on the belt, the ability to attach equipment outside)
• epigonom first shape and good fit on the back

The requirements seemed to be simple, but it turned out that a backpack that best suited them was not so easy to find. It was especially striking that 95% of backpacks use an arched frame with mesh to provide back ventilation. This design may cope with ventilation, but there is no useful internal volume left in such backpacks, and the center of gravity goes far from the back. SALOMON SKY 30 seemed to me the best of those 30-40 models that I was able to look, touch and feel in Moscow stores.

In addition to all the requirements listed above and, as it seems to me, the smartest solution with ventilation in the form of “pimples under the mesh”, I liked that this backpack has an additional side access to content. Now it’s very easy to get things lying at the bottom of the backpack! I was especially pleased with the absence of extra straps and ribbons and the beautiful, bright design. In addition, the dimensions of the backpack are such that it fits perfectly into the size of hand luggage on an airplane. A great backpack for frequent flyers.

The disadvantages of this backpack can be considered its weight (after all, 950 grams for a backpack with a volume of 30 liters is by no means small), a weak belt (sometimes, with a full load of 10-12 kg, you want a full-fledged belt) and still not the coolest from the point of view view of ventilation back. But you need to understand that the backpack is very well thought out, functional, strong and comfortable. And all this requires weight.

Characteristics:

• Volume: 30 l.
• Estimated weight of carried equipment: 5 - 10 kg
• Weight: 950 g.
• Price: 119 euros (2014)

This backpack has already been on the following trips:

• and even as an assault climber on Elbrus in May!

• Manufacturer's website: salomon.com
• Salomon backpacks in the Sport-Marathon store

OSPREY Talon 24

Year of purchase: 2014.

Purpose: bicycle backpack.

My newest backpack! I’ve been eyeing this model for a long time, and during the winter shopping rush, when I realized that in the coming year all the equipment would be one and a half times more expensive, I decided to buy it!

Primarily, I plan to use this backpack for one-day and even two-day cycling trips. Before this, I rode a bike with the Deuter Speed ​​Lite 20 - an excellent, durable backpack for all occasions. However, it is not ideal for a bike. Firstly, there are no pockets on the waist belt where you could put your phone, and I shoot on my iPhone, and I always want to have it with me. Secondly, the Deuter Speed ​​Lite 20 has a very simple back. When riding in hot weather and/or under good load, my back regularly sweated, which, of course, was not happy. And in Sochi, as you understand, it is often hot :) Compared to the Deuter Speed ​​Lite 20, the ventilation system on this Osprey is beyond praise. Even the shoulder straps are lightweight and breathable!

Secondly, thanks to the presence of a very convenient back adjustment system, this backpack, despite the fact that Osprey has a separate “female” modification called Tempest, is perfect for Sveta for our one-day hikes! It turns out that this is the only one of my sports backpacks that Sveta can use! Agree, one backpack suitable for two is convenient and profitable :))

Add to this full-fledged side drawstrings, a convenient external elastic pocket for a jacket, cardigan or wet clothes, two additional internal compartments for small things (passport, money, keys, phone charger), a special mount for a bicycle helmet and a proprietary system for attaching training poles (poles are not attached taking off the backpack!!) and you will understand that the Talon series backpacks are awesome ultra-tech backpacks for any outdoor sport from cycling to hiking, and Osprey is rightfully considered one of the most technologically advanced brands in the production of backpacks!!

P.S. Most American backpack brands, and Osprey is no exception, often produce the same backpack model in several sizes. The dimensions are determined not by the volume of the backpack, but by the length of the owner’s back! Osprey backpacks come in two sizes: S-M (small-medium) for those with short backs and M-L (medium-large) for people with long backs. IMPORTANT! Note! We are talking specifically about the length of the back, and not about height! Very often this does not coincide at all. There are short people with long torsos and backs and tall citizens with relatively short backs. Don't be lazy to try on the backpack when purchasing!! I took the smaller S-M for us.

Characteristics:

• Volume: 24 l.
• Weight: 600 g (size S-M)
• Price: 5900 rub. (2014)

The backpack is still completely new and has only been used on a few trips so far. I will write a more detailed review in a year!

• Manufacturer's website: ospreypacks.com
• Osprey Talon backpacks in the Sport-Marathon store

DYNAFIT X7 Pro 20

Year of purchase: 2015.

Purpose: My new backpack for day hikes in the "fast & light" style.

Fits perfectly and fits like a glove. Bright on the road. Easy. External helmet mount. You can also attach poles, which is quite suitable for hiking. A unique feature of the backpack is a special (removable) aluminum hook for carrying a bicycle on the shoulder!! There are a lot of pockets - for a snack, for a navigator, for glasses, for gloves and bananas. You can use everything without removing your backpack! It’s even suitable for climbing, I went with it to Fisht! I will definitely do a great review of this smart and cool backpack someday!!

Characteristics:

• Volume: 20 l.
• Weight: 340 g.
• Price: 5900 rub. (2015)

The DYNAFIT X7 Pro 20 backpack is quite new and has so far been used only during a walk to the Bzerpinsky Cornice, a hike and during radial ascents to Nagoy-Chuk and Fisht on a hike.

• Manufacturer's website: dynafit.com
• Dynafit backpacks in the Sport-Marathon store

Backpacks

After I became a dad, baby carriers became my most used backpacks. My wife and I have such a lifestyle that carrying a child in a car or a disabled person is not our style. And, of course, you can’t climb the mountains either by car or with a stroller! I am 100% convinced that every “correct” dad should have at least two backpack plans like this:

OSPREY Poco Plus

Purpose: tourist backpack for carrying children aged 1.5 to 3 - 4 years.

Year of purchase: 2013.

This is, without a doubt, the best backpack carrier on the market for backpacking with small children who need to be carried on a hike. The backpack contains everything you could need! For the child’s convenience, there is an adjustable seat height, special “stirrups” for the child’s legs, and even a “canopy-roof” built into the backpack from the sun and a rain cover with transparent inserts.

I am absolutely delighted with the possibilities of adjusting the back to suit any height of the parent and the excellent ventilation of the back. In the mountains, and even quite warm ones, such as we have in Krasnaya Polyana, believe me, it’s worth a lot! What kind of dad would like to sit on rest stops with a wet back?

The presence of an additional compartment for things in the lower part of the backpack with a volume of 20 liters and small pockets on the belt and shoulder straps allow you to place not only the child itself, but also quite a lot of travel equipment in the backpack!

The backpack provides everything you need not only for the comfort of parents, but above all for the safety of the child. There are even special seat belts! A child, accidentally or intentionally, will not be able to fall out or get out of the backpack in a place where it is highly undesirable to do so! In general, this is a truly excellent model from the world leader in modern backpack manufacturing.

I also have a second carrier (discussed below) and sometimes still use it on easy walks on easy trails or short walks in cool weather. If the planned route runs along paths where there is a risk of stumbling and falling, there are stones or roots under your feet, and there are cliffs on the sides, then there are no options - the best hiking shoes on your feet, telescopic trekking poles in your hands, and the child in such a backpack!

Characteristics:

• Useful volume: 20 l.
• Weight: 3.14 kg.
• Price: $350 (2013)

The Osprey Poco Plus backpack is one of my most frequently used backpacks and has been used on numerous summer hikes to the Bzerpinsky cornice, including the “Big Three-Day Hike” and winter walks around the outskirts of Sochi - to the Agur waterfalls and Mount Piket.

• Manufacturer's website: ospreypacks.com
• Carrying backpacks in the Sport-Marathon store

Backpack-carrying ERGO BABY

Purpose: backpack for carrying babies and children aged up to 2.5 - 3 years.

Year of purchase: 2013.

When I became a dad 2.5 years ago, this particular backpack, which was not at all a sports or travel backpack, became my most frequently used one. It was in this backpack that we constantly carried our little son from 3 months to about a year and eight months, after which he “moved” to a large, comfortable OSPREY Pocco. In addition, as a bicycle lover, I am endlessly pleased that my little son instantly fell asleep as soon as he got on it, and when he woke up he looked at the surrounding landscape with interest during my wife and I’s bicycle rides.

Now my son is already 2.5 years old and he goes on serious and long hikes in a large OSPREY Pocco. However, even now, sometimes we carry our son in this backpack. When? In general, there are two cases: either when the walk is very short, and it can happen at lunchtime, when the boy just wants to sleep. In such a sling, he can take a little nap, and when folded, this backpack takes up very little space and can be placed in another, larger backpack. The second case is hiking in cool weather. Due to the fact that in this backpack the child presses his whole body against you, he is much warmer in it than in a large travel backpack-carrying bag, where the child has no contact with your body at all. Thanks to the child’s proximity to you, it is much easier to “control” the child, check if his nose or hands are cold, or adjust his hat or gloves.

This year our first page of hiking stories in Crimea was opened. Before this route, we only made excursion trips during one daylight hours and without the appropriate equipment. Finally, we purchased sleeping bags, backpacks for tourism and a four-person tent, we already had a burner, and we outlined the first real hiking route in our lives, first on the map. Now we had to implement our plans on the ground.

It was a family trip, two adults - my husband and I, and two children - a teenage son and a daughter who is going to first grade on September 1st. They decided to distribute all the equipment according to the age and level of endurance of each participant, with careful treatment of the female half of our small group. Everyone carried their own sleeping bag and personal clothing items; they were taken to a minimum for their shift and in case of windy, cool weather. In my small sports backpack I carried additional medicines for various cases (poisoning, bruises, wounds, bites), special tweezers for pulling out ticks, soap, toothbrushes with toothpaste, matches, candles - in case the LED Chinese headlamps failed, a rug , water. My daughter couldn’t do without her favorite plush dog on a camping trip, nicknamed “Blue” after the color of the material of the soft toy, and a small heart-shaped pillow from the Winx series. The husband and son bore the brunt of the camp's belongings. My husband had behind him a backpack with a capacity of up to 60 liters with a tent from the Finnish company Halti, which had proven itself and had been tested by us in practice over the previous several years in repeated use; gas burner with cylinders; two small saucepans; two tin mugs with spoons, a knife and a fork (specially taken for my husband); water. The rest of the water and food, the camera, as well as elastic bandages for injuries and sprains of joints and ligaments, were carried by the son in a backpack with a capacity of up to 40 liters.

We planned to complete the route in no more than three days and two nights. This is actually what happened. At this time, our camp provisions consisted of 10 liters of water, 5 cans of proven premium stew, one loaf of sliced ​​black bread, a pack of dried bread, 6 packs of instant noodles, tea bags, 0.5 kg of sugar, 0.5 kg of rice and buckwheat 0.5 kg, salt. No fruits and vegetables, anything that quickly spoils, chokes, stains and weakens, maybe apples and potatoes, but none of us wanted to carry them. Already on the hike, I remembered, having seen wrappers from candies of one type, thrown, like identification marks, one every 500-700 meters on trail 138 by some tourist who loves caramel, that I had to take candies with me, exclusively for tea. But nothing more, because after them you feel thirsty and water is wasted. I miscalculated with the bread, for this reason at the end of the hike there was one unopened can of stew left, they didn’t want to eat it without bread, and I also had to take another bag of dried bread, which went like a charm with morning tea for breakfast. Personal weight, which may have been lost during the hike, was then regained at sea in the village of Zavodskoye. I returned from vacation feeling better, as if there were no travel conditions at all.

First day of the hike. Jur-Jur waterfall and Khapkhal gorge.

We started from the village of Generalskoye. We arrived there the night before. We found out about overnight accommodation and parking. We were accommodated by local Tatars in one of the houses for 80 hryvnia per person, the bathroom and kitchen were in the house. At their cafe, we had a snack of pilaf and tea with delicious pies with blackberries and raspberries. We slept well after the long road trip to Crimea, got up in the morning and began to get ready. Everything unnecessary for the hike was put into a car, which was placed in the yard of one of the local residents under guard for 50 hryvnia for the duration of the hike. We went to the store to buy more food and went down to the spring near the village. It was the beginning of the twelfth day. We collected spring water. The UAZ drivers who transport tourists to the Dzhur-Dzhur waterfall found out a little about the climb to North Demerdzhi, asked which direction to go to the waterfall and off they went.

I will say that it was not at all an easy trip, but it was an interesting and definitely not boring hike. Firstly, they usually rise from the side of South Demerdzhi and go to North Demerdzhi, descending from it, often through the Dzhur-Dzhur waterfall. We decided to go in the opposite direction. We chose this route deliberately and unanimously. The fact is that in 2011 we already made an attempt to get to the top of South Demerdzhi from the Valley of Ghosts from the village of Radiant. We had already climbed there, and there was no desire to repeat that path. Secondly, we had a seven-year-old child walking with us, which added responsibility and we had to take into account the children’s usual walking pace, slowing down our speed. Thirdly, we are still those walkers! We see a path, joyfully turn onto it, and then, beckoning us to follow it, it suddenly disappears, and we are left to wander in conjecture through a thick carpet of fallen leaves, making our way between trees that have been fallen and broken by a thunderstorm and wind. If only navigators always worked in those places! This happened again: three times during the entire route we lost our way, twice we had to return to our starting position, winding up unnecessary kilometers of the road.

The first time this happened was at the beginning of the hike, after passing the Jur-Jur waterfall. At the cordon, the workers of the Khapkhal hydrological reserve, who were encouraging tourists, learned about our intentions, and began to warn that the route was difficult, there was a steep cliff, and they doubted how my child and I would walk along it. We remembered the weather forecast promising rain. We definitely won't be able to walk on the wet rock. They wouldn’t let us pitch a tent in the reserve for the night, they would charge us a fine, so they unanimously recommended that we return and follow path 138, along which we were planning to return from Demerdzhi-yayla through Dzhurla. In general, they were a little intimidating, but even without them we knew that walking on the rocks in the rain is strictly prohibited, and our daughter already had an idea from real experience of how different the trails in Crimea can be.

From their information, I understood that difficulties with the rock would await us closer to the ascent at the edge of the Demerdzhi plateau, but it turned out to be completely wrong. The rock was located not far from the Dzhur-Dzhur waterfall itself, now I know that these are rocky ledges - the so-called “cheeks”, squeezing the river bed on both sides. I would listen to my husband who suggested following it. I saw a path that at first glance went around the obstacle. We moved along it and deviated away from the intended route. We realized this when we began to gain altitude and the surrounding mountains were better visible, above which, by the way, rain clouds were gathering. We had to either go to the intersection with path 147 and follow it to Demerdzhi-Yayla through Tyrke-Yayla, forgetting about the original plan, or go back down to the rock. There were 2-3 hours left before dusk; it was easier to return to the fork than to move forward or, in the worst case scenario, pitch a tent in the middle of a clear felling area. Moreover, I understood that turning onto path 147, the deep Khapkhal gorge would remain hidden to a curious gaze, but my inner instinct suggested that the gorge itself should be very beautiful.

That’s for sure, I fell into the trap of the Crimean gnomes, who diligently worked day and night to create that rock, which blocked the path to the picturesque upper reaches of the mountain river Ulu-Uzen Vostochny or Megapotamo (translated from the Crimean Tatar and Greek languages ​​as “big (great) river (stream)"). This very rock did not turn out to be a difficult obstacle for us, but we will remember it under the name “leading away.” We crossed it easily, and before our eyes there opened up a beautiful view of a pristine forest on the moderately steep slopes of the Khapkhal gorge and a crystal clear water stream cascading down onto boulders and breaking into multi-tiered baths and baths, bubbling streams and quiet shallows. Truly, the “Wolf’s Mouth”, which is also called KhapKhal (Hab-Khal), can be synonymous with royal grandeur, impeccable beauty, wild sinlessness and age-old peace. Struck by the revealed splendor, we walked quietly and leisurely along the stream, as we were advised by a young man who met us just behind the rock “leading to the side” and knew this area well. He said that the rock is the most slippery place, and there will be no further difficulties, all the paths will in any case lead to the top of the Demerdzhi-yayla plateau, the main thing is to stick to the left bank (not orographically in our case) and not go sharply to the right.

In RuNet you can find a ton of information about how to properly organize rescue operations on any type of terrain. There are translations of foreign brochures, and, judging by the publishing program of the FAR, rescue is their main priority.

This, of course, is all wonderful - the ability to help each other out in trouble significantly increases safety... But do you know what increases safety even more? A good technique for moving along the terrain, which allows you to avoid getting into trouble.

I don’t think that in the part devoted directly to the technique of movement, I will be able to convey something fundamentally new that cannot be found in the Soviet textbook of the 80s, but you will not find some of the nuances of preparing equipment and other little things there.

Traveling on gentle slopes

Moving along gentle ice slopes should not present any problems for any physically healthy person. However, breakdowns still occur. First of all, let's outline their reasons:

Incorrectly selected/fitted/configured equipment. Loss of balance (for example, due to errors in organizing simultaneous belays). Getting caught by crampons (which can be caused by both problems with movement technique and improper fitting of equipment)... Eh, these are my first rescues, what nostalgia))). Incorrect movement technique - placing the cat only on the outer or inner row of teeth, squatting.

Choosing equipment for ice treks

Let's start in order. How, after all, can you properly set up and fit individual equipment for simple ice routes? This question should be asked first in the store, then in the camp, then directly under the glacier.

Cloth

By equipment for ice routes I mean boots, crampons and an ice axe. However, a few words should also be said about clothing. Of course, it must be waterproof and windproof. But for safety reasons, it is extremely important that the pants are tapered to the shins, or if you are using flashlights, they should be compact enough and the adjustment strings tucked securely under the fabric. Crampons will constantly cling to your wide ski or snowboard pants. At best, it will end with a damaged item. At worst, he is a spoiled climber.

Boots

Firstly, it is advisable that they be at least a little insulated, even in summer, or at least they should include an extra sock. Boots from the “medium trekking” class and above will suit you. When choosing a model and size, try to lace it up very tightly. In this position, on the one hand, your leg should not become numb, and on the other, the boot shaft, when standing on your toe, should significantly relieve your ankle. This will be extremely important when you start driving on the front teeth. Before buying boots in a store, try tapping the toe on a hard surface, walking on an inclined surface (there are artificial slides in stores) to understand at least approximately what sensations you will experience on the ascent or descent.

Cats

Almost any crampons are suitable for flat ice. You should choose expensive and heavy technical models if you plan to go out on ice with a steepness of more than 30° (However, in winter, “advanced” crampons can be useful even on ice that is not steep). The main thing here is that the crampons match the boots. Compatibility issues are infrequent, but can still occur. Of course, only soft crampons are suitable for trekking boots. If you like semi-rigid or rigid, make sure your boots have a back welt (enough for semi-rigids), or a back and front welt (for rigid ones). If you wear shoes that are size 45 or larger, make sure the crampon clip connecting the front and back of the crampons is long enough. Some models of boots have a rounded sole on the toe for ease of walking, however, soft and semi-rigid crampons may not hold on to them very securely.

Ice ax

If, after passing a flat section, you do not plan to climb steeper ice, you should opt for a classic ice ax, with a straight shaft and a beak without a reverse bend. If weight is not too important for you, it is worth taking an ice ax with a long shaft, which helps maintain balance on gentle slopes. Decide whether you will tie it, and if so, how exactly. I myself don’t usually tie on an ice ax, but I wouldn’t advise every beginner to do the same. On a non-steep slope, you can simply clip a standard lanyard into the hole in the beak of the ice ax.

Checking equipment before leaving or at camp?

When planning an ice climb, check that the teeth of your crampons and the beak of your ice ax are sharp.

It is very important to check whether the crampons will cling to the ropes hanging from the harness and backpack, shoe laces, and flashlight adjustments. The lanyard mustache should not hang below the knees. It is not advisable to use guy ropes longer than 25 cm - a cat’s tooth can also get stuck in them. Think about how you will remove the excess crampon strap - you can tuck it under the flashlights, tie it behind itself with a control knot, or simply cut it off if you do not plan to put the crampons on bulkier shoes.

Of course, you should match the crampons to the boots. The crampon is put on correctly if it sits on the boot only due to the friction of the vertical elements of the frame against the rubber.

A properly adjusted cat will hold even without a brace or a frog. There is no gap between the toe of the boot and the crampon platform. This way the blow is most effective

Putting on equipment

Put on your gear in advance. You shouldn’t go out onto the glacier through the snowfield and then suddenly find ice under your feet and, shaking with fear, pull on the harness and attach the crampons. When you stop, think about whether you can perform all the upcoming operations with your bare hands. If not, wear gloves whenever possible, removing them only when absolutely necessary. Before starting to move on ice, it is recommended to tighten the lacing of your boots.

If you come under the ice without flashlights, think about whether you will need them on the glacier - they are put on under crampons, and if you have to walk through deep snow in places, you will be forced to lanyard yourself right on the glacier, take off your crampons, put on flashlights and crampons , hanging on an ice screw - it is better to do this in advance.

First put on the harness, and only then the crampons (this is only relevant if your harness has permanent “legs”). Tie the ice ax to the lanyard or on a separate lanyard and put the trekking poles in your backpack (if you decide to go with an ice ax). All items of equipment that you may need when moving on the glacier should be in direct access, or at the very top of the backpack.

Ice movement technique. Maintaining balance, preventing crampons from getting caught.

By placing your foot on the full foot, you are in a much more balanced position than walking on the front teeth. Of course, four teeth penetrate ice better than twelve, but if your crampons are well sharpened, this will not be a problem even on hard ice. Therefore, with a slight steepness of the slope (up to 20º), place your foot on the full foot - this will make it easier for you to maintain balance and save strength for a more difficult section.

Place your feet a little wider than if you were moving along a slope of the same steepness without crampons - this will allow you to maintain balance and your feet will not cling to one another.

Traveling on an open glacier. I would just put my feet wider and turn my toes slightly to the sides.

Photo from the American textbook “Military Mountaineering”.

If you started practicing the movement on ice in class and not while climbing, find a safe area and practice without an ice ax first. This will allow you to better feel your balance and focus on your footwork.

Now that you understand that it is quite possible to move along the glacier without an ice axe, take it in your hand, with the beak back. There is no need to squeeze it too hard - at the moment it is only needed for support. Most likely, you will not be able to reach the ground with it, so on non-steep ice, up to 15°, it is needed for safety net in case of a fall, as well as to maintain balance if you suddenly stumble or stagger.

What about trekking poles?

They are long enough to rest on the ground, so maintaining balance will be much easier. If you start to fall on one side, then the chances of poking the ice with a stick and standing are much higher than with an ice ax. However, there are two problems:

Sticks that have been used extensively often have worn out tips. This isn't much of a problem on moraines, but on ice it's a different story. Imagine: you are about to jump over a small crack. You rest one stick on the other side, walk, and at that moment it slides off. Not a very pleasant feeling - I speak from personal experience. Actually, I wanted to cover this issue in a separate article, about the care of equipment, but since I started telling you - Replacement plastic tips for poles are sold in stores. But about how to put them - really, next time. How to cut yourself off? Firstly, you can walk with one ice ax and a pole. Not so convenient, but safe. Secondly, there are sticks with a handle from which a small beak sticks out. I think it’s a very good option, although I haven’t tried it myself.

Another way is to cut yourself with the sticks themselves, grabbing them together with both hands about a meter from the tips. For this method to work, the tips MUST be sharp. And the lanyards must be removed - otherwise the sticks will not be able to be quickly intercepted.

In response to the question in the article, I decided to try to write a short article on choosing equipment for a novice tourist.

When describing the equipment, I tried to choose something that would be suitable for both a one-day hike and a week-long hike. The time of year is summer or, at least, the off-season. In the future, this set should be basic and supplemented and changed based on experience, category of difficulty, season, terrain, etc.

1. Equipment

1.1. Backpack.
Depending on how long you are going, take a backpack of 15-60 liters: for short one-day hikes - 15-25 liters, for trips of 2-5 days - 45-60 liters. Larger backpacks for longer hikes are definitely not for beginners.
On the advice of Your text to link...

for a man over 16 years old - 90-110 liters, for a woman and child under 16 years old - 80 liters.
so everything will fit inside, you won’t need to carry group things and belongings of a suddenly weakened comrade in your hands

by backpack volume - from the experience of children's and adults' hiking and water trips along the rivers and forests of the Nizhny Novgorod region for 3-20 days. those who buy a smaller backpack either hang all sorts of junk on the outside, or buy a different backpack.

Yes, for a small hike you can always carry a backpack with a sling

Whether to do this or not is your decision, but I personally don’t recommend it.
1.2. Documentation.
Just in case, take the documents. Take originals or take copies - everyone decides for himself. But in any case, you need to protect them from moisture.
1.3. Water and water filtration products.
The water supply should depend on the climate and terrain. Take 2-6 liters of water per day, for example, in bottles with a screw cap (they will come in handy later): less in winter, more in summer. Please note that you may need additional water for cooking.
Instead of a flask, you can take a plastic bottle.
As a rule, it simply doesn’t make sense to store a lot of water, because... in many places there are bodies of water (lakes, rivers, streams). In this case, take a water filter with you. Exceptions include areas that are far from natural bodies of water (for example, mountains). But a novice tourist, IMHO, has nothing to do there.
1.4. Food.
For a novice tourist, it is best that the food is ready to eat or easy to prepare.
If you decide to cook porridge, then take the porridge in bags (buckwheat, rice, millet, 80-100 grams of cereal per bag), such porridge will not burn on the pot.
If the hike is one-day, then it is possible to do without cooking at all. To use, for example, canned food: porridge with meat, cabbage rolls with meat, peppers stuffed with meat and others like that - just heat it up.
You don’t need to take:
- perishable food products (dairy, cold cuts, fish, ready meals);
- products containing hot spices, alcohol, apricot kernels, cooking and confectionery fats, sodium pyrosulfate, table salt over 0.8 percent, nitrites over 0.03%;
- fruits and vegetables;
- confectionery products with a high content of confectionery products with cream fillings.
1.5. Clothes and shoes.
Clothes and shoes should not be new and must be worn in.
If possible, for beginner tourists I recommend clothing in bright colors, possibly with reflective stripes. If necessary, this will attract additional attention.
Clothes must have long sleeves/legs, because... There should be more protection and heat conservation just in case.
Shoes should be reliable and comfortable. As a budget replacement for hiking boots, you can use military combat boots, strong city boots, regular running shoes (for simple hikes like the Crimea), inexpensive trekking boots from little-known manufacturers (there are quite high-quality options). You can also take sneakers, but they are not suitable for every terrain, because... they have thin soles (but can be used for camp wear, for example).
Cloth:
- Running pants - synthetic or mixed fabric is best, it is light and dries quickly, unlike cotton. You can ride the train/fly on a plane in these same pants. No need to take jeans, it's extra weight.
- Shirt/T-shirt. You can take any shirts and T-shirts for hiking that you have in the house, except synthetic ones. If you are going on a multi-day trip, take 2 pieces.
- A warm sweater or fleece (fleece or Polartek jacket) - in case the weather worsens. Must have a throat. On a one-day hike, you can take a windbreaker instead.
- Suit against wind and rain (jacket and pants). You don't have to take it on a one-day hike.
- Socks\underwear. In the case of a one-day hike, you don’t have to take it (but if you get wet, you can rub your feet with wet socks, and your groin with wet panties...). In other cases, take 2-3 sets. Socks are preferably woolen, because... Wool absorbs sweat and, unlike other materials, allows moisture to evaporate. There is no need to store/wear torn socks, because... This can cause calluses. Also, wool, even wet, retains heat. Socks made of synthetic threads are unacceptable for hiking, as they do not provide adequate heat and air exchange when walking. Feet sweat quickly and blisters may form.
- Underwear/thermal underwear. A very necessary thing for hiking in winter and in the off-season; in summer you can get by.
- Polyethylene cape (poncho). Necessary for protection from rain. You can simply replace it with a piece of polyethylene measuring at least 130x180 centimeters.
- You must have a headdress. If this is a transitional period (for example, autumn) or the climate requires it, then put a knitted hat (although it can be useful in the summer, when spending the night).
According to the new traffic rules, when crossing the road and driving along the sides or edge of the roadway in the dark or in conditions of insufficient visibility outside populated areas, pedestrians are required to carry objects with reflective elements and ensure that these objects are visible to vehicle drivers. Therefore, if you can drive near the road, take something with a reflective layer with you.
1.6. Hygiene products
Everything is in small tubes and packages. Toothpaste and brush, small soap, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, shaving accessories. Towel. If you are traveling for a long time, be sure to take baby powder and baby cream with you. If it’s a one-day hike, then only soap and a towel will be enough. As an option, a pack of wet wipes and a small tube of hand gel will be enough for a one-day hike (suggested)
The towel is small, preferably made of microfiber fabric: absorbs well and dries quickly.
1.7. Means for starting a fire
It's best to take matches/lighter. Matches must be packed tightly.
1.8. Ax/machete.
What is better - everyone decides for himself. The debate about this continues...
Alternatively, you can take a folding saw (hacksaw) instead (for a short time) or together with an ax/mosque.
1.9. First aid kit.
There must be medications for chronic diseases.
It is advisable to include instructions for use of all medications in the first aid kit.
If you wear glasses, put spare glasses in your first aid kit.
Even if you don’t take a normal first aid kit, take an adhesive plaster with you (to cover calluses and abrasions).
You can also use 100 milliliters of alcohol (for disinfection, grind, use internally and for kindling).
1.10. Orientation.
To do this, it is best to take a navigator, perhaps even on a smartphone. I don’t recommend a map and compass for beginners, because... you need to know how to use them.
Take your smartphone only for a short hike, because... The battery drains quite quickly.
If you take a smartphone, be sure to take a spare/external battery. Yes, and for the navigator you can take a spare set.
1.11. Sleep/shelter.
This item is only needed if you are going overnight.
In warm weather, it is enough to use polyethylene or an awning. I also advise you to take a travel mat, because... the ground can be cold at night.
In colder times or winter, everything is more difficult. Use a camping mat, sleeping bag, awning or tent for shelter in various combinations.
The mat can be replaced with a budget option - building thermal insulation.
Take a sleeping bag depending on the time of year of the hike, location and local climatic conditions. The temperature range of the sleeping bag is written on its packaging.
The tent should be compact, but roomy enough (minimum 60 cm per person), two-layer for protection from rain and wind, and, preferably, light - it is the tent that weighs the most of all the equipment. If you are going in a group, perhaps the tent will be a group outfit, designed in this case for several people.
1.12. Seat (foam for sitting, “butt pad”, “butt pad”).
For sitting on the ground, as well as on anything cold, wet, dirty.
1.13. Dishes.
As a rule, this is a mug, bowl, spoon.
Take plastic or steel, but not ceramics/glass (they can break quite easily). Plastic dishes are more difficult to wash off from grease, but metal (if not heat) burns your hands - choose what you prefer.
If the hike is solo, and you are going alone, then take a small pot instead of a bowl. If you are not going to cook, you don’t have to take it with you.
It is possible to take disposable tableware, but only as a last resort.
1.14. Bowler hat.
If you don’t plan to prepare hot meals, then don’t take it (this applies to one-day hikes). If you are going in a group, take it as group equipment.
Be sure to consider what you will use to hang the pot over the fire (if you are not using a burner). To do this, use fire ropes, collapsible hearths, fire tripods, brackets, folding crossbars, various hangers and holders of fire crossbars.
1.15. Flashlight.
It is advisable to have a small flashlight with you, just in case.
If you are going overnight, I also recommend taking a headlamp.
Don’t be lazy, take a spare set of batteries for the flashlight.
1.16. Plastic bags.
Take 5-8 bags of different sizes. For example, for packing wet and dirty things.
1.17. Gas (or other) burner.
It can be used instead of a fire if you don’t want to light fires, it’s impossible, or you have nothing to use. Take a small one.
As an option, you can take a whisperer.
1.18. Knife.
I won’t recommend which one. I think you need to hold it in your hands first. Don't buy expensive ones, Chinese ones will do.
1.19. Gloves
If you are going to make a fire, take heat-resistant gloves (for example, aramid knitted) for working around the fire.
1.20. Whistle.
Needed in case you get lost, because... The whistle of a whistle can be heard over a greater distance than a shout.
1.21. A ball of rope/string/paracord.
A diameter of 3-4 mm is sufficient. Take 4-5 meters. But it’s better to take one piece of at least 20 m and several pieces of 0.5-1 m. It can be useful in many places.
The rope should be consumable, that is, one that you won’t mind cutting. An ordinary clothesline is perfect for this.
1.22 Sewing kit
For a long-term solution, take 2-4 sewing needles, 1-2 saddlery needles, threads (preferably black and green, on a spool. It’s a good idea to divide them into tonic and thick ones.), 2-3 safety pins (for quick repairs of clothes and other equipment). A few buttons. A needle threader (a device for threading a needle) (very useful in poor lighting, you will be happy with stiff fingers from the cold and tired eyes). You can put small scissors (for example, folding ones). You can take a small awl (for leather or thick fabric). You can also add a thimble.
For a one-day trip, take 2 sewing needles, 1 spool of thread (a small spool will be enough), 2-3 safety pins. You can add a threader, scissors, or a thimble.
1.23. Money.
Even if you are walking nearby and not for long, then take money just in case: in different bills, so that you can pay without change and not lose all your money. Pack tightly.
Divide the money and put it in 2-3 places (pockets).
1.24. Optional equipment
There will be equipment here that you can do without, but it will make the hike easier.
- mirror. Remove a piece of trash or a midge from the eye and send a distress signal.
- monocular. It makes it possible to examine the proposed route from a distance, so as not to be faced with the fact that “you can’t get through here, you had to go around it.”
- Nordic walking poles. To help the legs, useful for beginners... And not only for beginners...
- sunglasses, dust glasses - to protect the eyes.
- repellents. You can do without them, but it’s better to take them. For those who are allergic to repellents, we can advise you to take individual electronic mosquito repellers
- rescue blanket.
- collapsible canister/bucket (in case of a long hike).
- a block for a knife and an ax (in case of a long hike).
- a triangular file for a hacksaw on wood (in case of a long hike).

2. The main ways to reduce the cost of purchasing equipment

- Use more or less suitable clothes from your existing wardrobe.
- Borrow from friends or rent.
- Buy used ones at second-hand stores or at the market.
- Buy at sales (seasonal and other discounts in sports stores, travel stores, online stores, stocks, etc.). You can buy very high quality items at an affordable price.
- Replace the famous brand with a less expensive analogue.
- Look for travel equipment from domestic manufacturers - it can be quite good in quality and usually costs less than foreign brands.
- Take old clothes that you won’t mind burning at the stake as they become unusable or you’re tired of wearing them.

3. Packing things

You should pack your things mainly in case of unforeseen getting wet (for example, from rain). They will be safely saved from dirt by external (backpack) and internal (the things themselves) packaging. There are only two options here: either protect each item separately, or all at once.
As an option, use combined packaging - first pack each item (group of things), and then pack everything together.
For individual packaging, you can use, for example, grippers or sealed bags. For clothes - ordinary household bags (which are for garbage). Also, clothes can be packed in vacuum bags (seals and reduces the volume of things). Sometimes you can use some type of airtight container. And for general packaging you can use plain film.

4. Group equipment.

If you are hiking in a group for several days, you will take group equipment with you. In this case, consult your trek leader about what to take with you. Because otherwise, you may end up with unnecessary repetition in the equipment, or you may even take extra (unnecessary) ones.

5. Additional equipment and equipment.

I recommend that beginners take additional equipment and equipment only as directed by an experienced tourist, group leader, or as they gain experience.

6. About the “coolness” of equipment

When discussing the issues of choosing equipment for tourism, two points of view are most often encountered:
1. things should be only the most modern and specialized. These people are willing to shell out considerable amounts of money for such equipment. They are well versed in new technological fabrics and materials, and are always up to date with the latest catalogs of popular travel brands.
2. The latter, as a rule, do not worry about their equipment at all and are quite capable of making everything they need on their own from scrap materials. As a rule, these are representatives of the “old school” who found and began to get involved in tourism during the years of general shortage. The most interesting thing is that they really manage to get by just fine with homemade tents and sleeping bags, and make category hikes in old sneakers and well-worn windbreakers.
I believe that neither one nor the other is right, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle . Anyone who thinks that the coolness of a tourist is determined by the amount of money spent on equipment is, of course, just as wrong as those who claim that no one needs all this modern technology. In fact, modern equipment is desirable, but not at all a vital condition for the implementation of a hike, unless, of course, it is related to expeditionary or extreme tourism.
Therefore, a simple conclusion follows - if you have the opportunity and desire to buy modern, advanced equipment - buy it. If there is no such possibility, then this cannot in any case serve as a reason for abandoning the campaign as such. On simple hikes (and if an experienced person, even on complex ones), you can always get by with improvised or low-budget solutions.

So you're going on a hike. The route has been chosen, the place has been booked, the tickets have been purchased, you are standing in the middle of the room, things are laid out on the floor, a backpack is in the center and the main question of any novice hiker is: “How? How can I put it all in my backpack?”

We will try to help you solve this problem and describe the most common principles in this article: how to choose a travel backpack; how to properly assemble it, how to adjust it correctly, how to properly wear a backpack on a hike, and we will give the most common mistakes that beginners make when packing before a hike.

Our article will help you correctly choose tourist backpack, so that you don’t get confused when standing in the store and looking at the huge selection of all kinds of models.

We also note that a backpack, shoes and a tent are something we recommend not saving on and approaching the choice of this equipment with particular seriousness.

Experienced tourists will confirm our words that there is no universal backpack and every trip has its own nuances. The first backpack will serve you for as long as possible if, before you go to buy it, you already know exactly the schedule of your trips for the season. But even if you follow all our recommendations, only after walking a few tens of kilometers with a backpack behind you will you be able to understand exactly what kind of backpack you want to wear, and what features of it are especially important to you.

The first thing you need to know about a travel backpack is that backpacks differ in volume, which is measured in liters. In a specialized store you can find backpacks from 40 before 130 liters In addition, there are women's and men's models and models, with different types of construction.

You should also decide on the type of hike and the climatic conditions that will exist along the entire route.

So, for a winter hike you need to take more things, which means you need a larger backpack. The amount of things you need to pack on a boat trip is significantly different from a trip across the mountains and plains. Please note that, for example, climbing Elbrus begins in a temperature range of about +15 +20, and at the top it can be down to -20. We recommend checking this point with the organizers of your trip in advance.

What size backpack should I choose?

Of course, you can pack all the necessary things into a small backpack, but to do this you need to know how to pack equipment correctly and considerable dexterity, which comes with experience. In addition, with a small backpack, there is often a need to hang large items “overboard”, which can cause a lot of inconvenience. With a large backpack, the situation is quite the opposite: the temptation to put a lot of unnecessary things is too great and the weight of the backpack can become simply incredible.

Depending on the build and preparation, an adult going going on a weekend trip, a backpack is enough 40-65 liters

— hiking on relatively flat terrain men need from 80 to 100 liters, women – from 60 to 80 liters;
— for mountain tourism men should stock up on a backpack of 90 liters or more, women the same 60-80 liters;
— water tourism or hiking with skis requires the presence of additional gear and equipment, therefore recommended volumes are from 130 liters for men and from 80 liters for women.

These numbers are very arbitrary, but they will help you navigate in choosing the right backpack for your first trip. We should also not forget about the individual characteristics of each person. For example, a fragile girl can comfortably cover huge distances with a backpack of 80 liters, while a hike for a young man may seem like hell with a backpack of 60 liters. Everything is very individual and can only be learned through practice.

Some of the quality backpack manufacturers make backpacks in sizes (from S to XL) or with the ability to adjust the size yourself.

Types of backpacks:

Easel backpacks They have a strong frame in their design, to which a suspension (belts, belt, straps) and a bag are attached. This version of the backpack was very popular at the end of the last century, but now it is practically not used by tourists, because... The frame is quite heavy in weight and extremely rigid to use.

Frame backpack type is now the most popular type of travel backpack, thanks to the most thoughtful weight distribution due to special inserts made of plastic or metal. Most often, the plates are sewn into the backpack, but there are also models with removable “plates”, which makes storing the backpack easier (it can be rolled up).

Soft design backpack and is due to the absence of any rigid inserts. This greatly simplifies its storage (it can be compactly folded both on a hike if necessary, and at home when there are no hikes), however, such backpacks need to be able to be laid out correctly in order to make it rigid using your own things, and this is not an easy task for beginners.

Structural elements of a tourist backpack:

Webbing system– this is 80% of your comfort on a hike. The straps should be firmly attached to the frame of the backpack, be elastic and soft, all seams should be well stitched, not slip and not cut into the neck. When trying on a backpack in a store, pay attention to the buckles; they should allow the tourist to adjust the straps in an already worn and loaded backpack.

Unloading belt– redistributes the load from the shoulders and spine to the hips. The belt should be approximately at the level of the bones on the hips. Make sure that the belt is wide enough and soft. It is very important that a comfortable buckle is attached to it, allowing you not only to adjust it to the structure of your body as much as possible, but also to quickly remove the backpack if necessary.

Flap and pockets– used mainly for storing small items that are often needed while moving, or for those items that do not fit into the main volume of the backpack. And if all modern models have a valve, and also serve to protect things from rain, then manufacturers are increasingly abandoning pockets, because... By loading them, the tourist increases the volume and shifts the center of gravity of the load.

Additional loops, ties, fastenings serve to attach the necessary tools to the backpack (for example, ice axes, rope, even a tent).

Lower entrance may not always be useful, especially if you have placed a rug around the entire perimeter of the backpack, so this detail may be considered “optional” when choosing your first backpack for a hike.

Waterproof cover Modern models often come with a backpack included. It protects your things from getting wet during a long trek in the rain, from dirt, and is even used to transport a backpack through water.

Your actions in the store when buying a tourist backpack:

• carefully study the design of the backpack;
• pay attention to the quality of fabric and seams;
• all buckles and fasteners must be strong, and ties must pass through them freely;
• the material on the back should be soft and, preferably, with a ventilating insert;
• the level of fastening of the straps on the back should be approximately in the middle of the shoulder blades; if this mark is noticeably higher or lower, then you should choose a different backpack according to size or height;
• adjust the loaded backpack, fastening and tightening all possible fastenings, until the ideal result.

How to pack a backpack correctly

The main rule here is proper weight distribution.

Before you start packing your backpack, make a list of the things you will need on your hike, lay the items on the floor and distribute them into groups: for example, things for sleeping, general equipment, heavy items, items often used on a hike, bulky items, clothes.

Try to use the entire volume of the backpack and leave no empty spaces, because... during movement, this will lead to a shift in weight in the backpack and entail a lot of inconvenience.

And now point by point:

• at the very bottom they put bulky things and things that will be useful only in the evening or while staying (sleeping clothes, sleeping bag), the tent and sleeping mat are usually secured from the outside;
• the heaviest things are distributed along the back, while trying to put soft objects between things and your back, this way you will avoid sharp corners that will fit into your back;
• It is better to pack the items of the group that were distributed to you in a separate bag so that you can get them out easily and not search for too long throughout the backpack;
• items that you plan to use frequently (camera, phone, map, medicines, water, insect repellent, etc.) should be placed at the very top to simplify access to them;
• It is better to pack all small-sized items in a separate container or bag so that they do not scatter throughout the backpack;
• It is better to pack documents, money, phones, chargers and anything else that is a pity in waterproof bags;
• It is better to place fragile items and crumbling products as close to the top as possible.
  Once your backpack is assembled, put it on, adjust it, and walk around. You should be comfortable and comfortable. If this is not the case, try moving things around to equalize the center of gravity of the load.

How to properly adjust a backpack

When you have decided what to pack for your trip and have packed your things correctly, it is time to put on your backpack and adjust it so that the trip is as comfortable as possible and does not turn into a nightmare.

The first desire - to pick up the backpack and forcefully throw it over your shoulders - should be ignored. The weight of the backpack is quite significant and such an attempt may not be successful and may even lead to injury.

In order to correctly adjust a tourist backpack filled with things, you should loosen the straps and place it, holding it by the handle, on some elevation (at home it can be a chair, table, cabinet), and only then alternately put the straps on your shoulders.
If there is no elevation at hand, then you can use your own leg bent at the knee instead.

Adjusting the backpack should begin with the lower fastenings. Pull the weight belt so that the buckle is midway between your thighs. The belt should fit your hips as anatomically as possible and take up to half the weight of the backpack.
After this, start adjusting the shoulder straps. You should not pull them up too actively, so as not to transfer all the weight from the unloading belt to your shoulders, but not too weakly, so that the backpack does not tip back when walking. Make sure that the straps do not dig into your neck and that the chest strap does not interfere with free breathing and movement.
If this is your first experience of assembling and adjusting a backpack, then we recommend walking around the apartment in it or even taking a walk around the yard in order to fit it as accurately as possible. If you are not comfortable, you should take out excess items or redistribute the weight within the backpack space.

How to wear a backpack correctly

In order to understand how to wear a backpack correctly, just follow the rules that we stated above:

1. You shouldn’t skimp on a backpack, but we wouldn’t recommend thoughtlessly buying the most expensive first backpack either.
2. You shouldn't buy a backpack online. It’s better to spend a little time, go to the store, try everything on.
3. You need to choose a backpack based on: a) your own anatomical features and preferences (no one has canceled the concept of a “beautiful backpack”), b) hiking conditions (hiking, mountain, water, etc.), c) quality of materials, threads and accessories, d) own feelings.
4. The heaviest things in the backpack should be located along the back, the most necessary ones - on top, those that will be needed only in the evening - at the very bottom.
5. There should be no empty spaces in the backpack.
6. A correctly put on and adjusted backpack is comfortable to wear, does not move anywhere when moving, and fits tightly.
7. With an assembled, adjusted backpack, you should walk around, try to bend in different directions, and make sure you are confident in your movements.
8. Please note that personal belongings on a hike should not exceed 10 kg! Another 4 to 12 kg will be added to them (depending on the duration and autonomy of the hike and your gender). The normal weight of a backpack for a hike of average difficulty for 10 days for a girl is about 17 kg, and for a man about 23 kg.

We wish you nothing but the most amazing backpacking experience and hope this article helps you choose your ideal first backpacking backpack.

We also have useful articles on choosing other equipment needed for hiking.