Backpacking Organization

[Benjamin S]

Companion forum thread to: Backpacking Organization

From home to the backcountry I like my gear to have a “place”.  At home it’s a bin for cookware, a bin for sleeping pads, a bin for tents, a bin for m

[Doug Coe]

I aim to do a similar approach without the use of HMG pods—stuff sacks or hydration bags instead.

So far the bugaboo I run into is having to stand my bear can up vertically. When I get (make) a pack that will hold it horizontally, I’ll be able to fully implement this stacking of major “pods” method. I can’t wait for that day!

Oh, also, I think I’ll put the camp clothes in the same bottom bag as my sleeping bag.

[Eric Blumensaadt]

Thank you for this article Ben. I totally agree.

My Osprey EXOS 58 is, by UL standards, “large enough” at 58 liters but I still use Mountain Laurel Designs side pockets. (MLD pouches W/ sewed on nylon webbing for attachment.

Left pocket contains water treatment tablets and Steripen, 1st Aid bag and spare batteries.  Right pocket contains canister top stove & fire starters, fuel can or ESBIT stove and tablets and TP W/hand sanitizer.

Front Seek Outside “Wet rig” pouch attached to the lower webbing straps of my harness is for a bike bottle and zippered pouch for map, compass, snacks, mini headlamp, etc.

All this means about 4 extra ounces and true organization for quick access. Nice to be able to grab TP when you need it in a hurry – or the 1st aid bag.

Of course I have a left shoulder zippered pocket for my Olympus TG-4 camera. That is, again, for fast access , as when that d@mn rattler crosses my trail.

[Mike M]

my “organization” is limited to keeping stuff dry in lightweight dry sacks

sleeping bag/quilt goes in one- liters depends on season, 8-15 liters- always at the bottom

clothing goes in another- liters depends on season 4-10 liters

emergency type gear (first aid, fire. repair, headlamp, etc) goes in a small one (1 liter)

shelter usually goes in an outside pocket (wet won’t hurt it) stove/pot/fuel goes in main bag, inflatable pad/pillow goes in main bag, food in a dcf sack goes in main bag

shoulder and hip pockets for water, inReach, tp/wipes (in waterproof ziplock), sunscreen, snacks, etc

[Author]

Posts