How to Pack a Backpack for Maximum Comfort & Efficiency

How to Pack a Backpack for Maximum Comfort & Efficiency

Packing your backpack isn’t just about shoving everything in and hoping for the best (though we’ve all been there). A well-packed bag can make a huge difference in how comfortable and balanced you feel while hiking—especially over longer distances or rough terrain.

Whether you're heading out for a short bushwalk or a multi-day canyon trip, learning how to pack your backpack properly will help you move better, feel less strain, and access what you need without having to unpack your entire kit on the side of the trail.

Here’s how we pack our bags to keep things comfortable, organised, and adventure-ready.

1. Start with the Right Pack

Before we even get into the packing side of things, it’s worth checking that your backpack is the right size and fit for the kind of hikes you do.

• For day hikes: 20–35L is usually plenty.
  
  
• For overnight or multi-day hikes: 40–65L, depending on how much gear you’re carrying.
  
  

Make sure your pack has a padded hip belt, adjustable shoulder and chest straps, and ideally, an internal frame to help distribute weight properly.

2. Think About Zones – The Packing “Layers”

Your backpack is roughly split into three vertical zones plus the external pockets. Packing things into the right area makes your load feel lighter and helps you stay balanced on the trail.

Bottom of the Pack (Light & Bulky Items)

Use this space for items you won’t need until camp or later in the day:

• Sleeping bag
  
  
• Lightweight clothes or thermals
  
  
• Camp shoes or sleeping mat (if it rolls up small)
  
  

Middle of the Pack (Heavy Items, Centered Near Your Back)

This is your “core” – where you want to keep the heaviest gear for better balance and stability:

• Food bag
  
  
• Stove and cookware
  
  
• Water reservoir (if it goes inside)
  
  
• Tent body or poles (if they fit)
  
  

Pack these as close to your spine as possible. This helps keep the weight centred and prevents your bag from pulling backwards.

Top of the Pack (Lighter Essentials You Might Need Quickly)

This section is perfect for:

• Rain jacket
  
  
• Insulated jacket or fleece
  
  
• First aid kit
  
  
• Lunch or snacks
  
  

These are items you might need to grab during the day without digging through your whole pack.

3. Use External Pockets for Frequently Used Items

Make the most of your bag’s outer compartments for small things you want within reach.

• Hip belt pockets – Snacks, lip balm, hand sanitiser, phone
  
  
• Side pockets – Water bottles, sunscreen, trekking poles
  
  
• Lid/top pocket – Map, compass, headlamp, multitool, toilet paper
  
  

Just remember not to overload these areas—they can throw off your balance if they’re too heavy.

4. Keep It All Tight

Once everything is packed, use the compression straps on the sides of your pack to cinch it down. This keeps things from shifting around and helps stabilise the load.

Also, make sure your zippers are fully closed and your gear is packed snugly so there’s no bouncing or rattling on the trail.

5. Waterproof Your Gear (Just in Case)

Even if the forecast looks clear, it’s always a good idea to line your pack with a heavy-duty plastic bag or pack liner. Use dry bags or ziplocks for electronics, spare clothes, and anything you definitely don’t want getting wet.

A rain cover is great for sudden showers, but it won’t protect the back panel or inside zips—so always line your bag too.

6. Adjust Your Straps on the Go

Once your pack is on:

• Tighten the hip belt first – it should carry most of the weight.
  
  
• Then adjust the shoulder straps so the bag sits snug but not tight.
  
  
• Clip the sternum strap across your chest to keep the shoulder straps in place.
  
  
• On longer hikes, tweak the fit as needed to avoid hotspots or tension.
  
  

If it’s your first time with a loaded pack, expect to make a few small adjustments as you go—perfectly normal!

7. Do a Quick Accessibility Check

Before you hit the trail, ask yourself:

• Can I reach my water and snacks without taking the whole pack off?
  
  
• Is my first aid kit easy to get to in an emergency?
  
  
• Do I know where my rain jacket is if the weather turns?
  
  

If the answer is no to any of those, it’s worth reshuffling before you head off.

Final Thoughts

Packing your backpack with a bit of strategy can make a huge difference to how comfortable and confident you feel on the trail. It’s not about bringing less (though packing light helps)—it’s about packing smarter.

Once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. And your back, shoulders, and knees will definitely thank you.