Packing a rucksack correctly is an art, but what if you are going on a day hike and only have a small pack? How should a daypack be packed and what should you take? Our handy expert advice will guide you through what kit you should need and how to pack a day pack efficiently.
Firstly, here is a list of things that you should consider taking with you on a day hike:
Packing for a day hike is considerably easier than packing for an overnight stay. You can get away with packing very little compared to what you might need for a few days away.
The key to packing for comfort is considering weight distribution. To ensure weight is distributed evenly pack heavier items in the bottom half of the bag whilst sitting them as close to the back of the pack as possible (the part that sits closest to your back). The remaining items should be packed around this.
Step 1- To begin with take your rucksack and put a heavy duty plastic bag inside to give it a waterproof lining. A washed out compost bag or a purpose made rucksack liner are ideal, avoid black bin bags as they are too flimsy. This lining will give your bag valuable protection from the rain and will protect your belongings should you fall into water.
Step 2- Next up, pack your spare set of clothes in the bottom of the bag (this should include underwear, socks, trousers/shorts, t-shirt and a fleece). Hopefully you shouldn’t need these items but they are invaluable if you are out for longer than intended or the weather turns. These should also be sealed in a water tight bag such as a dry bag.
Step 3– Consider how you will be taking your water supply. Are you taking it in a bottle or are you going to be using a hydration pack? If you are going to use a hydration pack then you will need to be careful not to pack anything sharp next to it. It may be worth packing it outside of the waterproof liner just in case it bursts. If you are using a hydration pack, then taking a separate bottle is advisable.
Step 4– Next you should pack kit that will not be immediately required or things you may not require at a moment’s notice. This may include cameras and packed lunches, first aid kits and items such as additional spare socks (important as wet feet are not pleasant!).
Step 5– Once all these items are packed then it’s time to pack kit which you may need access to quickly, this could include waterproofs and rain covers. These should be packed at the very top of the bag, if you have a top pocket this would be an ideal place for these.
Step 6– Lastly; pack items which will sit on the outside of the bag until required. Bottled water and flasks can be packed in side or mesh pockets that you bag may have. Walking poles should fit onto the outside of you pack by the way of some loops and straps.
Daypacks
