Find the Right Daypack for Your Needs
Daypacks are useful for a variety of activities including hiking, biking and commuting, each of which has its own set of preferred features. Identify the activity that you plan on pursuing most often and then determine the features that may mean the most to you.
Rather than choose the largest model, focus instead on a size that will provide the capacity to fit your needs and length of your hike.
The shape and profile of a day hiking pack can have a big impact on how it performs, so you should evaluate each pack based on how it matches your preferred activity. For example, a bicyclist needs a small, unobtrusive daypack that will allow freedom of motion, while a bulkier daypack for a hiker would be acceptable.
Selecting daypacks is fairly subjective and somewhat challenging, however consider some of these tips to help you climb the learning curve faster:
- Fit: Daypacks should rest between the base of your neck and the small of your back.
- Padding: Look for extra padding when carrying excess weight.
- Hydration: Pick a pack that allows for easy access to water. Some daypacks come with a removable bladder and tube for easy-access hydration.
