If you’re into outdoor activities that involve wilderness exploration and survival skills, such as camping, hiking, or hunting, chances are you’ve heard of the term bushcraft. It’s a set of skills and knowledge that enables you to live and thrive in the wild using natural resources and minimal gear.
Bushcraft enthusiasts love it because it allows them to connect with nature, learn self-reliance, and challenge themselves physically and mentally. One essential piece of gear for any serious bushcrafter is a good backpack.
A backpack is not just a means to carry your essentials; it’s also your home away from home when you’re out in the wild. Your backpack should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, rough terrain, heavy loads, and frequent use without falling apart or causing discomfort.
Choosing the right backpack for bushcraft can be overwhelming due to the variety of brands, models, sizes, and features available on the market. However, if you keep in mind some key factors when shopping for one will make your decision process easier.
With that in mind, we’ll jump right in and sart looking at the factors you should consider when choosing a bushcraft backpack. The most important ones include size and capacity; material and durability; comfort features; organization features; access points; weather resistance.
Size and Capacity
The first factor that affects your choice of bushcraft backpack is its size and capacity.
The Importance of a Properly Sized Backpack
When it comes to bushcraft backpacks, size matters. Choosing a backpack that is too small or too large for your body can lead to discomfort and even injury. A backpack that is too small may not be able to fit all of your gear, while one that is too large may cause back pain or restrict your movement.
When selecting a bushcraft backpack, you should take into consideration your height, weight, and torso length. The length of the pack should be proportional to your torso length – measure from the base of your neck to the top of your hips – so that it sits comfortably on your hips rather than pulling down on your shoulders.
Determining the Right Capacity for Your Bushcraft Backpack
The capacity of a backpack refers to how much it can hold in terms of volume or weight. When determining how much capacity you’ll need for a bushcraft trip, consider factors such as the length of the trip and what you will be carrying.
For day trips or overnighters, a backpack with a capacity ranging from 20-40 liters should suffice. However, if you plan on going on longer trips or carrying larger items such as tents or sleeping bags, consider getting a pack with at least 50 liters of capacity.
It’s also important to note that overpacking can lead to unnecessary strain on your back and make hiking more difficult than it needs to be. Be mindful when packing and only bring what is necessary for the trip at hand.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of your backpack are important since it will determine how long it lasts and withstands environmental factors.
The Importance of Durability in a Bushcraft Backpack
When it comes to outdoor activities like bushcraft, durability is key. You need a backpack that can withstand harsh conditions, rough terrain, and heavy loads. A durable backpack can make or break your trip.
Imagine being miles away from civilization with a broken strap or tear in your backpack. It’s not a situation you want to find yourself in.
Not only does durability ensure your safety and comfort, but it also saves you money in the long run. A high-quality backpack that lasts for years will save you from having to constantly replace cheaper, low-quality options.
Different Materials Used In Backpacks And Their Pros And Cons
There are several materials used in creating bushcraft backpacks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One common material is nylon, which is lightweight and water-resistant. However, it may not be as durable as other materials and can easily tear when exposed to sharp objects.
Another popular material is canvas which is extremely durable but also heavier than nylon or other synthetic materials. It’s ideal for carrying heavy loads but may not be suitable for longer trips due to its weight.
Leather is another option that offers excellent durability but might be too heavy for extended hiking trips. There are composite materials which are a combination of different fibers that offer both strength and light-weightiness.
These types of materials often come with higher price tags but are worth the investment if you’re planning on using your pack frequently. When choosing the best bushcraft backpack for your needs, consider the durability of the material used to make it.
Look at different options available such as nylon, canvas, or leather depending on what kind of activity you plan on engaging in while wearing the backpack. Keep in mind that investing upfront in high-quality gear will save you money and headaches in the long run.
Comfort Features
Another set of features that should be taken into account when selecting the best bushcraft backpack for your needs include comfort features.
Comfort is Key
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long hike through the wilderness, the comfort of your backpack should be a top priority.
After all, you don’t want to be carrying a heavy load in an uncomfortable pack for hours on end. When it comes to comfort features, there are several key things to consider: padding, ventilation, and adjustable straps.
Padded for Protection
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that your backpack has ample padding in the right areas. A well-padded back panel will help distribute weight evenly across your back while minimizing pressure points and discomfort.
Shoulder straps with thick padding can also provide much-needed relief by cushioning your shoulders from the weight of the pack.
Another important area of padding is the hip belt. This helps shift some of the weight from your shoulders down to your hips – where it’s easier for you to carry – reducing fatigue and strain on your upper body.
Breathe Easy with Ventilation
Ventilation is another crucial aspect of backpack comfort. Especially during hot weather or strenuous activities, good ventilation will help keep you cool and prevent excess sweating.
Look for backpacks with breathable mesh material in areas that come into contact with your body like the back panel or shoulder straps. Some packs even have specialized ventilation channels built-in to increase airflow and reduce heat buildup.
Adjustable Straps for Custom Fit
Adjustable straps are essential when it comes to achieving a comfortable fit that suits your body type and personal preferences. Backpacks should have multiple adjustable points such as shoulder straps that can be tightened or loosened depending on whether you’re going uphill or downhill.
An adjustable sternum strap can also help keep everything in place while taking some of the load off of your shoulders. Additionally, some backpacks have load-lifter straps that can help redistribute the weight across your back and reduce stress in certain areas.
When it comes to choosing a backpack with comfort features, it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs. A pack that fits you comfortably will allow you to enjoy your outdoor adventure without unnecessary pain or discomfort.
Organization Features: Keep Your Gear Neat and Tidy
When you’re out in the wilderness, organization is key. A good bushcraft backpack should have plenty of organization features such as compartments, pockets, and loops to help keep your gear organized.
These features not only make it easier to find what you need when you need it, but they can also save you time and frustration. One important feature to look for is a main compartment that can be divided into smaller sections.
This will allow you to separate your gear by type or use, making it easier to find what you need quickly. Look for backpacks that have removable dividers so that you can adjust the sections to fit your needs.
Pockets are another essential organizational feature. Look for backpacks with multiple pockets both inside and outside the main compartment.
Pockets on the outside of the backpack are great for storing items that you need quick access to such as snacks or a map. Pockets on the inside are perfect for smaller items such as first aid supplies or lighters.
Loops are another feature that can come in handy when organizing your gear. Loops can be used to attach items such as water bottles or trekking poles to the outside of your backpack, freeing up space on the inside while still keeping these items easily accessible.
Some backpacks even have loops specifically designed for attaching fishing rods or other equipment. A good bushcraft backpack should have plenty of organization features like compartments, pockets, and loops.
These features will help keep your gear organized and make it easier to find what you need quickly when out in nature’s beauty. Remember that everyone’s needs are different so choose a backpack with features that suit your unique needs!
Access Points: Top-Loading Vs. Front-Loading Packs
Top-Loading vs. Front-Loading Packs: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to backpacks, one of the most important things to consider is the type of access point that you want. There are two main types of backpacks when it comes to access points: top-loading and front-loading packs.
A top-loading pack is one where you access your gear through a hole at the top of the pack, while a front-loading pack is one where you can open up the entire front panel to get inside.
Which Type of Access Point is Better Suited for Certain Activities?
The type of access point that you want for your backpack will largely depend on what activities you will be doing with it.
For example, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking or camping in rugged terrain, then a top-loading backpack may be better suited for you since it tends to be more durable and can withstand rough terrain without risking damage to zippers or buckles.
On the other hand, if you are going on a trip where you need quick and easy access to your gear frequently or carrying heavier loads, then a front-loading pack may be the better option because it allows for easier organization and quicker load distribution than stuffing everything through a small hole in the top.
Weather Resistance: Keeping Your Gear Safe and Dry
When you’re out in the wild, you never know what kind of weather you’re going to encounter. Rain, snow, and humidity are all potential threats to your gear. This is why weather resistance features are so important when it comes to picking the best bushcraft backpacks.
Waterproofing vs Water-resistant Coatings: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of weather-resistance features that you’ll see in bushcraft backpacks: waterproofing and water-resistant coatings. Waterproofing means that the material is completely impervious to water. This is achieved through specialized membranes or coatings that prevent water from penetrating through seams or materials.
Water-resistant coatings, on the other hand, simply repel water by creating a barrier on top of the material. Waterproofing can be a great option if you’re planning on spending extended periods of time outdoors or if you’ll be crossing rivers or streams.
However, it can also add weight and reduce breathability. Water-resistant coatings are generally lighter weight and more breathable but may not offer as much protection against heavy rain.
The Importance of Weather Resistance in Outdoor Activities
So why is weather resistance so important? Well, for starters, wet gear is heavy gear.
If your backpack gets soaked during a hike or camping trip, it can add a lot of unnecessary weight to your load. Additionally, wet gear can lead to mildew or mold growth which can damage both your equipment and potentially harm your health.
Another reason why weather resistance is important is safety. Being stranded in an unexpected storm with wet gear can lead to hypothermia or other dangerous conditions which can threaten both yourself and those around you.
Overall, when looking for a bushcraft backpack make sure to consider its weather resistance features carefully based on your specific needs and environment. A high-quality backpack with the right weather-resistance features can make all the difference in keeping your gear safe and dry on your next outdoor adventure.
Related: A Beginner’s Introduction to Bushcraft and Survival
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to take on the great outdoors and enjoy some quality bushcraft, it’s time to invest in a high-quality backpack that can keep up with your adventures.
A good bushcraft backpack is one that is designed to withstand tough conditions, has ample space to carry all your essentials, and most importantly, is comfortable for long hikes. We have discussed some key factors you should consider when selecting the perfect bushcraft backpack.
Comfort features such as padding, ventilation, and adjustable straps are also important when picking out a backpack. These features play an important role in preventing injuries during long hikes and make carrying heavy loads more manageable.
Organization features such as compartments, pockets, and loops help keep gear organized while access points dictate how easy it is to get into the bag. Finding the best bushcraft backpack requires careful consideration of these various factors.
It might take some time and effort to find just the right fit for you but in doing so, you will be sure that your outdoor excursions will be comfortable and efficient without any unexpected surprises along the way.
Remember always to do thorough research before making a purchase!