Last summer, I decided that it was time to upgrade my current hiking daypack. I quickly found a one in colors I love, purple and black, in a brand I absolutely adore. I thought it was so cool how it was set up with pockets and a stuff section in the front. When I saw it, before I had even tried it on, I had pretty much made up my mind that this daypack was coming home with me. While trying it on, I remember thinking it was a little on the heavy side without my gear in it and somewhat uncomfortable how the straps dug into my arms. However, without a second thought, I moved past the warning signs that day and bought that cute daypack.
The daypack has since become the terribly “cool” daypack. I learned that looks aren’t the only thing that matters. I learned during many hikes in the past year the daypack was in fact very heavy and caused unnecessary back strain. The minor strap issue turned into a much larger issue causing my arms to hurt during the hike as those straps dug in. Obviously, I no longer use the terribly “cool” daypack. It has been replaced. I learned my lesson the hard way by ignoring the warning signs. Let’s keep you from making these same mistakes when choosing a daypack.
Tips to avoid buying the terribly “cool” daypack:
- Pay attention to feel.
It is important how the daypack feels on your body. You are going to be wearing this often and for several hours at a time. If something is uncomfortable or doesn’t feel right, don’t make excuses. Be willing to walk away from it, no matter how cool it looks or what brand it might be.
2. Be Picky
Don’t sacrifice your back. You have a right to choose something that will work best for you. Don’t choose based on what others have or what is top rated in an article for 2021. Reviews are helpful, but remember you are what matters most here. How does the daypack fit you? Try different options before choosing the one that is best for you.
3. Don’t be frugal at the expense of your back.
There are some things you really just have to spend money on to get something that won’t kill your back. The structure of the daypack itself is important. You want to buy a daypack that has been made well, with comfort and your back support in mind. It’s okay to spend more on a daypack that you will use for years and years to come versus buying one every year because it didn’t hold up.
Good luck finding your next daypack. Happy hiking. Let’s wander onto the trail this week with a great daypack and find new adventures.
