Packing your backpack
Packing your backpack
We can carry a maximum of 20-25 % of our own bodyweight. The German Armed Forces expects this to be 33 % but their backpacking drills are renowned for being extremely tough. Use the following tips to help you pack for specific tours or routes:
Avoid letting the heaviest part of the load shift downwards while you pack. Otherwise you’ll be pulled backwards, because your pack’s center of gravity is too far from your own. With heavier loads this will soon make it hard to walk, as your body constantly has to work against the weight of the pack. It also results in greater than normal strain on the shoulders. And over tricky terrain, an incorrectly packed backpack can even pose a safety risk.
Moving over easier ground like beginners’ hiking paths or more level trails, you should make sure the heaviest part of the load is packed higher up. Otherwise you’ll be pulled backwards, because your pack’s center of gravity is too far from your own. With heavier loads this will soon make it hard to walk, as your body constantly has to work against the weight of the pack. It also results in greater than normal strain on the shoulders. And over tricky terrain, an incorrectly packed backpack can even pose a safety risk.
Over more challenging terrain, like on high-alpine tours, or when climbing, it’s best to pack the heavier part of the load lower down. This will make you bend forwards somewhat when walking, to counter the weight, but it also makes it harder for you to lose your balance than it would with it higher up. Consider using folding / telescopic trekking poles too.
Our experts explain how to pack your backpack correctly
Whatever you’re going to undertake, never pack more than you need — but always pack what’s necessary.
We’ve teamed up with members of the German Association of Mountain and Ski Guides, from OASE Alpin Center and from the youth section of the German Alpine Association to compile some tips and packing lists for you. Please note that all weights are estimated and can vary. As a general rule: The more high quality the equipment, the lighter the overall weight of your backpack. Here are a few packing lists for you to base yours on:
