The latest in our series of Shopping Tips is a low down in
how to buy a day pack. You can find detailed information on
technical features and more in our Buyers
Guides series, but these tips should give you an easy hit
list of what to look for when you're actually there, in the store,
trying and buying a pack.
Back Length?
Very
few daypacks have adjustable back systems, so you need to check that
the pack length works with your body. Ask the staff to load the pack
up with roughly what you're going to carry in weight terms, put the
pack on, adjust the sholder straps so they're comfy and then see
where the waist belt is. Too high? Too low? Try another pack.
Is It Stable?
Next you need to check that the pack will be nice and stable on
your back. That's particularly important if you're going to be
running. Cinch down any compression system, adjust chest and upper
shoulder tensioners so they're snug then run on the spot and / or
jump around. The pack should stay planted, if it doesn't, it'll be
uncomfortable and the rubbing from strap movement may also abrade
your clothes.
Can You Move Easily?
If you're going to be climbing or scrambling using your new pack,
make sure it doesn't obstruct your movement, arm or legs. For
climbing packs, make sure the pack isn't wider than you or you'll be
dragging it through chimnies.
Pocket Reach
Lots
of modern packs, particularly lightweight ones, come with mesh stuff
pockets at the side. Ideally you want to be able to reach them
without removing the pack? See if you can stow a bottle or a pair of
gloves in them easily. Do you have enough pockets for your general
needs?
Pole / Ice Axe Attachments
If you're going to be using trekking poles or ice tools with the
pack, have a close look at any holder arrangements. We reckon the
best are those with shockcorded loops and hooks which work easily in
icy conditions and are quick to adjust to size.
General Comfort
Is the loaded pack comfortable? Make sure there aren't any points
where frame sheets or struts dig into your body. Are the pads padded
but not too soft? Do your arms catch on anything when you're walking
normally?
With packs featuring a trampolene-style back system, make sure the
pack doesn't lever itself away from your back. The same's worth
considering if there are no top tensioner straps to pull the pack in
at the top, in fact, unless it's a very small pack, we'd suggest
avoiding a design without these tensioners.
Abrasion
Considerations
As clothing gets lighter, it becomes more susceptible to abrasion
damage. The abrasiveness of the fabrics used in pack back systems and
particularly on shoulder straps varies greatly. Try running the
inside of your wrist down the strap and seeing how rough it feels. If
you're a lightweight clothing user, you might want to opt for a
smooth-finished fabric rather than one with a sandpaper-like
texture.
Tibs and Tabs
Try zip-pulls, belt fasteners, pack entry and exit points and make
sure they're easy to use and as little faff as possible. The same's
true of hydration sleeves, if you use a hydration system. Is the
sleeve big enough for your bladder? Does the entry point match your
needs? Are there guides for the drinking tube fitted on both sides of
the pack, or at least on the side you favour?
The Golden Rule - If There's One Thing...
As with boots, an uncomfortable pack can ruin your day on the
hills, so don't just assume that it'll fit and be comfortable, even
if it scores highly in the reviews. Take the time to try it properly
and make sure it suits your body. We know of at least one daypack
from a major and well-reviewed brand that can dig uncomfortably into
your lower back, so don't take fit for granted.
