The art of loading

HEAVY ITEMS

If using a hydration system, make sure it goes in first.

Put any heavy items as close to your back as possible.

BULKY MIDWEIGHT ITEMS

Put bulky items (plus last-resort things like waterproof overtrousers and stuff you won’t need on the walk, like overnight kit) at the bottom.

Fill upwards and outwards with first aid kit, hat and gloves, warm layers and food (in a dry bag).

Your waterproof jacket can either sit at the top of the pack, or in an outer pouch or pocket or where it’s even quicker to grab.

LIGHT ESSENTIALS

Water bottle and/or flask can live in the side pockets. Or you might choose to store your poles in a side pocket, secured with compression straps (unless the pack has dedicated pole attachments).

The outer lid pocket can hold a dry bag of little essentials, eg compass, whistle, head torch, tick remover. Put valuables (purse/wallet, car keys) in the inner lid pocket.

Use the hip-belt pockets for phone, GPS, pain relief and/or a snack.

When it’s full, use the compression straps to close the pack firmly round the contents for maximum stability.