How To Pack A Rucksack - Packing tips to save space | ZALANDO, by Zalando on YouTube. 1 min 43 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 43 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Empty the rucksack and check the straps, zip and hip belt. Lay everything you plan to take on the floor and cut anything you will not use.
Put heavy items like food, stove and water low and close to your back, in the middle of the main compartment. Keep the weight centred so the pack does not pull you sideways.
Roll clothes tightly or use stuff sacks and fill the space around the heavy core. Push soft items into gaps at the sides and bottom rather than leaving air pockets.
Place light items such as a spare layer and sleep mat above or below the heavy core. Keep the load low and central so your centre of gravity stays stable.
Pack items you need during the day, like snacks, map, sunscreen and a rain shell, in the lid pocket or top of the main compartment.
Put water bottles in the side pockets and keep the heaviest one balanced with the other side. Secure anything strapped outside so it cannot swing.
Tighten the compression straps to pull the load close to your back. The pack should feel firm, not bulging or loose.
Put the rucksack on, fasten the hip belt first, then adjust the shoulder straps and sternum strap. Most of the weight should sit on your hips, not your shoulders.
Tips and common mistakes
Do not hang heavy gear on the outside of the pack, it swings and strains your back.
Use dry bags for clothes and electronics in case of rain, even if your pack has a cover.
Test the fit with a loaded pack at home before your trip and adjust the straps again on the trail.
Questions
Where should the heaviest items go in a rucksack?
Low and close to your back, near the middle of the main compartment. This keeps the weight over your hips and helps you stay balanced.
How do I stop my rucksack from hurting my shoulders?
Fasten and tighten the hip belt first so the pack rests on your hips. Then adjust the shoulder straps and sternum strap so they only steady the load.
Can I pack a day trip rucksack the same way?
Yes, but keep it lighter. Put water and food low and central, a layer on top and snacks in the lid so you can reach them without unpacking.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
