Buying GuidesOther Guides of Interest
As a traveller, there are several items you may need that can be found in other sections of our website - these include sleeping bags and tents from our camping section. Advice on buying these can be found using the links below:
No matter what pack you require, from a simple daypack to a super technical alpine pack, you’ll find that the manufacturers use plenty of technical terms and phrases to describe various parts of the pack. Below you’ll find a guide outlining some of the key features that go into constructing a pack.
Harness System
The most important part of a pack is the harness system. This system transfers the load away from the shoulders to the hips, and the better it is at doing this the more comfortable and stable your pack. Brands achieve this by using pre-shaped, custom moulded and articulated hip belts. Some brands offer different harness sizes providing a fit for all shapes and sizes, while others use an adjustable back. Shoulder straps also vary from pack to pack, using different foam densities, pre-shaping, reinforcing and mesh for strength and comfort.
A light pack with a poor harness system is never a substitute for a good, load-balancing harness. A great pack is one that fits you well. To get the best fit we recommend visiting one of our shops where our trained staff will be able to help.
Top Loader v Panel Loader
Top loaders are commonly used for backpacking or trekking where the ability to carry a load comfortably for a long period of time is important. They help to maintain the shape and comfort of the pack while on the move, and some feature a roll-top seal for enhanced weather protection.
Panel loaders are often used to carry and store your gear when travelling as they allow you to get to all of your kit quickly and easily. Their straps can be folded away to prevent damage, while grab handles are ideal for hauling the bag off buses, trains or baggage carousels
Waterproof Packs
Whilst packs are made using waterproof fabrics the amount of seams and zips makes it impossible to call them totally waterproof. We recommend using a liner and/or a waterproof cover to guarantee dry kit.
Size
The size of your pack is generally dictated by the weight and amount of kit that you are carrying and the activity, for example climbers need a pack that is as small and light as possible, while backpackers need a pack with as big a capacity as they can carry.
If you're at all unsure about which is the right pack for you, visit your nearest Snow+Rock store where you’ll receive expert advice from our trained staff.
Pack Features
- View the following pack features by clicking the numbers on the diagram below.
-
Top lid including zipped pocket
The top lids are detachable on some packs, enabling you to use them as a hip belt for days when you're sightseeing or staying in and around camp.
-
Side Compression Straps
Compressing a partly loaded pack helps to reduce bulk and ensures that the load inside the pack and the pack itself remain stable.
-
External Storage Points
Many packs feature external gear loops where you can safely store ice axes and walking poles without taking up valuable space.
-
Load lifter straps
Load lifter straps ensure that the pack doesn't wobble about on your back as you walk. They should be taut when the straps form a nice arc over your shoulder. Over-tightening will cause the shoulder straps to bend, resulting in an uncomfortable fit around the shoulders. If they're too loose, the pack will wobble from left to right as you walk.
-
Adjustable shoulder straps
Shoulder straps come in a variety of shapes for different packs and can be adjusted using the buckle below the padding. They should be tight enough to keep the pack in contact with your back, but not so tight that they dig into your arms.
-
Air Vent Back Systems
Air vent back systems allow air to flow freely between the pack and your back by minimizing the contact. Many packs now feature this type of system so that you can avoid the damp and uncomfortable feeling you get when the pack rests against your back for any length of time.
-
Adjustable chest strap
This strap is often overlooked, but is important when making sure that the weight of the pack stays in the right place when you're walking.
-
Adjustable back system
Each brand does this slightly differently. Make sure that you choose a pack with the correct back length, before using the individual back adjustment systems to achieve precisely the correct fit. Find our pack sizing guide here
-
Adjustable hip belt
Most hip belts are pre-formed, but in selected stores we offer a custom-moulding service for some Osprey pack hip belts. This guarantees a superb fit. Contact our stores for more details.
-
Lumbar pad
This pad is the area which touches your back when wearing your pack.
Additional Features to watch out for on selected packs:
-
Side Pockets
These pockets add useful volume to your pack and allow quick and easy access to essentials. A stretch mesh is often used in their construction to maintain a low profile look.
-
Hip Belt Pockets
The most versatile and useful of the pack pockets, they are ideal for keeping your valuables, energy bars, phone or camera within easy reach.
-
Hydration Compatibility
Many packs now feature a specific sleeve and exit port that can accommodate a hydration reservoir.
-
Haul Loops
Provide a safe and practical way to lift your alpine pack up after you when climbing. The loops are strengthened for durability and performance.
-
Women’s Specific Packs
Women’s specific packs feature specially designed shoulder straps, harnesses and hip belts for optimum pack carrying comfort and performance.
Recommended Packs
We have compiled a list of packs that we think are best suited to a specific activity or scenario. As you can see, each pack has a brief review supplied by members of staff from our stores outlining what makes each pack the outstanding bit of kit that it is. Thanks must go to the stores and their staff who provided this information.
-
- Arc'teryx Bora 80
Himalaya: Trekking
Has a lot to like about it. The big kangaroo pouch, the drinks bottle side storage, the easy access and versatile side zip and bottom zip, and its ability to carry big loads easily.
Rory @ Covent Garden
-
- Crux AK47-X
Mont Blanc Ascent
The perfect pack for an ascent on Mont Blanc as it is lightweight and strong. An easy-to-use uncomplicated pack that can fit everything in and is really comfortable.
Paul @ Bristol
-
- Mountain Hardwear Dihedral
Hut to Hut
Very tough climbing packs. It’s good to be able to remove the hip belt as it makes climbing with a harness much easier. If you keep the hip belt then you’ll find the racking loops will make climbing easier and provide easy access to equipment.
Anselm @ Kensington
-
- Osprey Mutant 38
Scottish Winter
This is a superbly priced pack that is ideal for Scottish winter use. It has integrated gear hangers that can be made in to gear loops or take a Black diamond Ice clipper and fantastic storage for ice axes and hammers.
Paul @ Bristol
-
- Osprey Exos 46
UK hill walking
The Exos is great for comfortable summer use as it is reasonably light and has a ventilated back system. It has also has a convenient easy access system for storing a walking pole.
Rob @ Kensington
-
- Vango Sherpa 60+10
Duke of Edinburgh
A straight forward and light pack that carries weight incredibly well for the price. Its moulded hip belts do a make a difference in comfort, while the ability to float the lid means you can overload, if you need to.
Phil @ Port Solent
-
- Osprey Talon 33
Kilimanjaro
Going up Kili you need food, water, clothing and a sleeping bag. This little bag will swallow it all and be light on your back. A sturdy hiking pack with a full-length hip belt, its ventilated back system will be of use anywhere hot, and having a rain cover attached to the pack is a particularly useful feature. (Recommended with a camelback 3 litre reservoir and thermal control kit)
Tim @ Holborn
-
- TNF Overhaul 40
City Breaks
It's big enough for a change of clothes, toiletries etc and still fits on as hand luggage!
Rory @ Covent Garden
