Rucksacks and tips for packing them

Gday guys,

This post is going to introduce the reader to Rucksacks, their use and how to pack them.

When out in the scrub it is essential to take a pack to carry gear. A rucksack, preferable about 65 litres in capacity, is fine for this. The typical rucksack will carry everything you need to survive in the scrub, such as a sleeping bag, mats, clothing, food etc. A rucksack with proper back support is needed, because when carrying lots of equipment you will get a very sore back if it is not supported correctly. It should have hip straps so that the majority of the weight is held on the hips, not the shoulders. It should also have a frame to support your posture correctly, and to keep the rucksack sturdy.

(All items in the next paragraph are STRONGLY recommended, but not necessary to survive)

When packing the rucksack, make sure that the things you will not immediately need go to the bottom. To waterproof these things a large heavy duty garbage bag is recommended. Place it into the rucksack first, and then start putting your gear in. Start with the sleeping bag. This is possibly the most important thing in your rucksack, so make sure that it is looked after. Your sleeping mat should go on top of this, and then an inflatable pillow (if you have one) should go on top of this. Place any clothing on top next, and make sure that it is placed in a plastic bag for protection. Water can be packed inside the rucksack, but it can be placed outside in one of the outer pockets, or held on by straps. Make sure you have at least 3 litres for this. Place your First Aid Kit in the top pocket where you can easily access it, and any other gear (like multi tools, pocket knives, torches and batteries) in here as well. Keep your map and compass on you at all times, and keep a whistle with you as well. If you are in a group, and you get lost or lose your team then you can use a whistle to attract their attention.

If there are any other tips that you would like to add for packing a rucksack, feel free to add them.
Thankyou for reading, and enjoy using your rucksack to its full potential.
Brock J

Thanks for the tips Brock

If possible get a US miltary Sleep system carrier for your sleeping gear. They are pretty roomy and have the ability to attach to most frames and other packs. This frees up your main pack for other items that you may need to get to in a hurry. These carriers also have "D" rings to attach a shoulder to making them very versatile as a shoulder bag as well.

Thats an interesting suggestion, thanks for the input

How much do they usually cost?

My rucksack is from Macpac and uses a Liberator Harness. I bought it in Adelaide a couple of years ago, and it was about $400 if I remember correctly. It is very strong and reliable, so Macpac has gained my 'tick of approval' .
I have found different full sized rucksacks for between $200 and $400. Some are even more expensive ($500 and even $600) as well. Kathmandu also sells a wide variety of packs/rucksacks and these are just as varying in prices. Some are less than $100 and some are more than $500. Of course there are many other different stores that sell these sort of packs, so feel free to look around and see what suits you and your budget. Cheaper and just as reliable packs are available from military surplus stores/websites like Aussie Disposals.

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I hope this helps,