Choosing the Right Backpack for New Zealand’s Great Walks

Embarking on a Great Walk in New Zealand is an unforgettable experience. These multi-day tramps take you through stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged mountains. One of the most crucial pieces of gear for a successful and enjoyable trek is your backpack. Choosing the right backpack can make or break your adventure. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to help you select the perfect pack for your Great Walk.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into specific backpack features, it’s essential to assess your individual needs. Consider these factors:

• Trip Length: How many days will you be hiking? Longer trips require larger packs to carry more food, clothing, and gear.
• Season: The time of year affects the type and amount of clothing you’ll need. Winter hikes demand warmer layers, potentially increasing pack volume.
• Accommodation: Are you camping or staying in huts? Hut stays reduce the need to carry a tent, sleeping mat, and cooking equipment, significantly decreasing pack weight and volume.
• Personal Preferences: Do you prefer to carry extra luxuries or travel as light as possible? Your comfort level will influence your gear choices and pack size.
• Physical Condition: Be realistic about your carrying capacity. Choose a pack size and weight that you can comfortably manage for extended periods.

Backpack Size and Volume

Backpack volume is measured in liters (L). Here’s a general guide to backpack sizes for different trip lengths and accommodations on New Zealand’s Great Walks:

• 1-3 Day Hikes (Hut Stays): 30-50 Liters. These packs are ideal for carrying essentials like clothing, food, water, and a sleeping bag liner.
• 3-5 Day Hikes (Hut Stays): 50-65 Liters. This size offers more room for extra clothing, toiletries, and potentially a lightweight sleeping bag.
• 3-5 Day Hikes (Camping): 65-80 Liters. Camping requires a larger pack to accommodate a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, cooking equipment, and food.
• 5+ Day Hikes (Camping): 75+ Liters. For extended trips with camping, you’ll need a high-capacity pack to carry all necessary supplies.

Key Backpack Features

Once you’ve determined the appropriate pack size, consider these important features:

Suspension System

The suspension system is the backbone of a comfortable backpack. It consists of:

• Torso Length Adjustment: A proper fit is crucial. Measure your torso length (from the base of your neck to the top of your hip bone) and choose a pack with an adjustable torso length to match.
• Hip Belt: The hip belt should transfer the majority of the pack’s weight to your hips, relieving pressure on your shoulders. Ensure it fits snugly and comfortably around your hip bones.
• Shoulder Straps: Padded shoulder straps should contour comfortably to your shoulders without digging in. Look for adjustable load lifter straps that connect the shoulder straps to the top of the pack frame, helping to pull the weight closer to your body.
• Frame: Internal frame backpacks are most common for hiking. They provide support and structure while conforming to your body.

Materials and Durability

Choose a backpack made from durable, water-resistant materials. Common materials include:

• Nylon: A strong and abrasion-resistant synthetic fabric.
• Ripstop Nylon: A reinforced nylon fabric that resists tearing.
• Polyester: Another durable and water-resistant synthetic fabric.

Look for reinforced stitching and durable zippers, as these are common failure points.

Organization and Accessibility

Consider how the backpack is organized and how easily you can access your gear:

• Main Compartment: A large main compartment is essential for storing bulky items.
• Top Lid: A top lid provides additional storage and can be used to secure items like a rain jacket.
• Pockets: Look for a variety of pockets, including side pockets for water bottles, hip belt pockets for small essentials, and front pockets for quick access items.
• Sleeping Bag Compartment: Some backpacks have a separate compartment at the bottom for storing a sleeping bag.
• Hydration Compatibility: If you use a hydration reservoir, ensure the backpack has a dedicated sleeve and hose port.
• Front Access: Some packs offer a front access panel, allowing you to easily reach items in the middle of the pack without unpacking everything.

Weight

The weight of the backpack itself is an important consideration. A lighter pack allows you to carry more gear without exceeding your comfortable weight limit. Look for packs that balance durability with lightweight materials.

Rain Cover

New Zealand weather can be unpredictable. A built-in rain cover or a separate rain cover is essential to protect your gear from getting wet.

Trying On and Fitting a Backpack

The best way to choose the right backpack is to try it on with weight. Follow these steps:

1. Loosen All Straps: Start by loosening all the straps on the backpack.
2. Load the Pack: Add weight to the pack, simulating the gear you’ll be carrying on your hike. Use items like water bottles, books, or sleeping bags.
3. Put on the Pack: Place the pack on your back and fasten the hip belt. The hip belt should sit comfortably on your hip bones.
4. Tighten the Hip Belt: Tighten the hip belt until it feels snug and secure.
5. Adjust the Shoulder Straps: Tighten the shoulder straps until they feel comfortable and the weight is evenly distributed between your hips and shoulders.
6. Adjust the Load Lifter Straps: Tighten the load lifter straps to pull the weight closer to your body.
7. Check the Fit: Ensure the torso length is correct. There should be about 2 inches of space between the top of your hip belt and the bottom of the pack. The shoulder straps should contour comfortably to your shoulders without digging in.
8. Walk Around: Walk around with the pack on to get a feel for how it carries.

Top Backpack Recommendations

While specific recommendations vary based on individual needs and preferences, here are some popular and highly-rated backpack brands and models suitable for New Zealand’s Great Walks:

• Osprey: A well-known brand with a wide range of backpacks for hiking and backpacking. Popular models include the Aether/Ariel (men’s/women’s) and Atmos/Aura (men’s/women’s).
• Deuter: A German brand known for its comfortable and durable backpacks. Popular models include the Aircontact Lite and Futura.
• Gregory: A brand with a long history of making high-quality backpacks. Popular models include the Baltoro/Deva (men’s/women’s) and Zulu/Jade (men’s/women’s).
• Macpac: A New Zealand brand specializing in outdoor gear. Known for durability and suitability for New Zealand conditions.

Tips for Packing Your Backpack

Efficient packing is crucial for a comfortable and balanced load:

• Heaviest Items: Pack the heaviest items close to your back and in the center of the pack.
• Sleeping Bag: Store your sleeping bag in the bottom compartment (if available).
• Food: Distribute food throughout the pack to balance the load.
• Essentials: Keep essential items like rain gear, snacks, and a headlamp in easily accessible pockets.
• Water: Store water bottles or a hydration reservoir in designated pockets or sleeves.

Maintaining Your Backpack

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your backpack:

• Clean Regularly: Wipe down your backpack after each trip to remove dirt and grime.
• Store Properly: Store your backpack in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.
• Repair Tears: Repair any tears or damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Check Zippers: Lubricate zippers occasionally to keep them functioning smoothly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backpack is an investment in your comfort and enjoyment on New Zealand’s Great Walks. By considering your needs, understanding key features, and trying on different packs, you can find the perfect backpack to carry your gear and help you make the most of your adventure. Happy tramping!