The distinction between a rucksack and a backpack is somewhat disputed and the terms are used differently in different places. The process and the principles of packing a rucksack or an internal-frame backpack, though, are basically the same. [1] X Research source Put something reflective or luminescent on the top of the rucksack so it is easy to find at night. Put your last name on the rucksack, or some other identifying mark that will let you distinguish it from other packs quickly.
Making room for water or water filtration devices should be your first priority if you’re traveling remotely. Almost everything else should come second when compared with providing enough potable water for yourself. Are you going someplace that gets cold? Even desert climates can get frigid at night, and you should always travel with at least one layer of warmth, a hat, rain protection, and a lightweight mylar emergency blanket. Ideally, you’ll have a lightweight tent and a good-quality light sleeping bag that’s rated for cold temperatures, if necessary. Even if you’re going to be sleeping indoors, a good rucksack kit should include a multipurpose tarp that could be used for ground cover or as a makeshift shelter in a pinch.
Bandages Antiseptic ointment or spray Isopropyl alcohol Pain medication Iodine capsules, malaria treatment, or other preventative medication
Bring a lightweight raincoat, sturdy shoes, and plenty of socks to change out while you’re out in the rain. It’s important to stay as dry as possible.
Plenty of socks and underwear, at least four back-up pair of each and a patch kit to make little repairs. These are the most essential things to change in and out each day to stay healthy. A thermal shirt and underwear that you can use in cold conditions, as well as two or three t-shirts and a lightweight rain jacket. At least two pair of long pants and one pair of athletic shorts or swim-trunks. Alternatively, you might be able to get away with a single pair of jeans and a back up for a long trip. A stocking cap and wool gloves. A heavy coat, if you’re going to be traveling in cold conditions.
Try to get a hold of a small kettle and a gas cooker, sometimes called a “hobo stove,” as well as a lighter and some waterproof matches. It may be a good idea to have a package of basic candles to keep a flame going for an extended period of time. Bring only multipurpose tools. No garlic presses in a rucksack. Don’t bring a plate and a bowl, just bring a bowl that you can use for anything that would require a plate. Don’t bring a potato peeler, bring a sharp knife that you’ll be able to use in a variety of situations. Depending on how long you’re going to be gone, you might want to bring a bag of granola and simple trail mix, or you may need some MREs, protein bars, and more substantial fare. Try to keep emergency rations on hand, at least enough to sustain you for 48 hours in an emergency.
Again, consider your purpose. If you’re going to the lake house and want to bring your ruck sack, it’s probably not essential to bring the camp stove and the fold-up hatchet. Err on the side of keeping it as light as possible.
If you have a single big compartment in your rucksack, the things that you will use as soon as you arrive and continue using frequently should go on top and things you will rarely use should go at the bottom. It’s usually common, if you’re heading out hiking or hitching, to keep your socks on the top of the bag for quick changes and easy access.
It’s usually common to keep soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and other toiletries in a plastic bag to avoid spillage and keep the easily accessible.
This can be a great way of padding breakable items and hiding valuables. If you’ve got some extra cash, hide it somewhere a thief would be unlikely to look, deep in the bag. Don’t keep it in an external pocket if you can help it.
Some rucksacks have openings on the bottom that allow you to unzip and remove items quickly and easily from the base of the sack. These big backcountry-style rucksacks can hold a tremendous amount of weight, meaning that you’ll need to play with weight distribution a little more carefully than with a smaller pack that sits higher on your frame. [7] X Research source
Roll clothing tightly rather than folding it. This will allow the clothes to take up less room while also reducing wrinkles from crushing. Make sure that only enough clothing for the excursion is taken along, as this will help to preserve room for other essentials.
Most rucksacks are equipped with straps along the bottom that make it possible to secure bedrolls vertically, helping to distribute the weight and save space, as well.
Pay attention to where you feel the pressure of the straps, and whether or not the bag is throwing off your balance as you move. If so, you may need to reposition some of the items in the bag to distribute the weight more evenly. Casual backpack wearers such as students often leave the straps loose and let the rucksack sag low over the rear. Wearing a heavy rucksack loose and low would be miserable on a long trip, so it’s important to keep the straps tight and the bag as high on your frame as possible.
