Mountaineering Backpack Buying Guide - How to Buy Backpacks

• Buy Multiple Backpacks
  
  Before anything else, you should keep in mind that there isn't a single Backpack that would cater to all of your different Outdoor activities. Therefore, if you are a serious backpacker or outdoorsman, then consider buying multiple backpacks each targeted at specific activities and trip durations.
  
  
• Backpack Volume
  
  Having kept that in mind, you should now ask yourself how big is the volume you need to be able to bring the things you will need for your Outdoor activity. Overloading a small backpack by connecting equipment at the outside of the pack is a bad solution as it disturbs the center of mass and the load distribution. Aside from that, it would also help if you learn how to pack only what you really need. Follow this link for more information.
  
  
• Backpack Load
  
  After the volume, determine next how much load you are planning to carry in the Backpack. The general rule is that the heavier the load, the more technical features your Backpack should have. For heavier loads, you will definitely need a hip belt and the combined workings and adjustability of the shoulder harness, sternum strap, and the stabilizer straps.
  
  

• Specialized Equipment
  
  If you plan to take specialized equipment like Snow Shoes, Ice Axes, Crampons, Climbing Ropes or other larger pieces of equipment then you might want to look for Backpacks that have special pocket, strap and cord configurations that will allow you to easily attach these pieces of equipment to the outside of your pack. There are even special backpacks that are designed to carry a snowboard, skis or other big gear.
  
  
• Weatherproof
  
  Aside from the considerations already mentioned above, you should also look for a Backpack that is weatherproof. There's nothing worse than getting your supplies all wet during severe weather conditions. Also look for a Backpack with a splash cover or that has a separate fitting splash cover. However, also keep in mind that even if its fabric is waterproof or water resistant, it is not entirely waterproof. Water can still find its way through all the seams, stitching, and openings. If you really want to keep the insides of your Backpack dry, either pack these items in a waterproof back or buy a waterproof Backpack cover.
  
  In connection to having a weatherproof Backpack, also remember not to use dustbin liners since they rip very easily in keeping your items dry inside, do. Use rubble bags instead because these are much stronger.
  
  
• Hydration Systems or Liquid Containers
  
  Depending on the activity you wish to engage in, decide if you need your backpack to have a hydration system or if you are just going to use bottles and other liquid containers. Keep in mind that drinking tubes and bladders can freeze up in extreme cold conditions.
  
  
• Fit Your Backpack
  
  Then finally, keep in mind that Backpacks are like clothes and shoes too. You need to fit a Backpack first when buying one. It might seem strange but it is definitely something important to do. Most backpacks have adjustable hip belts, shoulder harness and stabilizer straps but even then the basic shape of the hip belt and shoulder harness could not be compatible with your body.