CHOOSE THE ONE.

 In Blog

Choosing the right pair of walking boots may be one of the first things one has to do before undertaking the Camino experience. But picking out the best rucksack is the next step as this item is going to become our most faithful companion along the route. But the choice is not that easy. Out there it’s possible to find hundreds of them but it’s necessary to be able to distinguish what type they are and what kind of back system they include…

There are three main types of back systems incorporated in rucksacks. Generally the bigger the bag the more sophisticated the back system.

* STANDARD. This type of back system is often found on smaller bags that don’t hold much weight. The straps and back panelling are foam padded for extra comfort. The body of the bag itself is held against the back.
* AIR COOLED. This type of back system is often found on medium sized bags. It creates a cavity between the wearers back and the body of the bag. This allows air to circulate and cool.
* ADJUSTABLE. Can be fitted specifically for the user. When a bag is fitted correctly most of the load will be transferred to the hips. Your posture will be better and the bag will feel more comfortable to carry.  This is the best type of rucksack for the Camino de Santiago.

Which Rucksack?

LIGHTWEIGHT HYDRATION PACKS. These packs are minimalist and contain a hydration reservoir and a small amount of space to store other necessities. They are commonly used by runners and bikers – not suitable for a long Camino journey.

DAY PACKS. Designed to allow the user to carry enough gear for a day without having to go for a multi day bag, day packs are utilized by bikers, runners, walkers and hikers alike. Climbers also use a more lightweight version of the day pack on their excursions. These bags are generally between 15 and 30 litres – these are often used by pilgrims that are having their main rucksack moved by a bag carrying company to carry their valuables.

MULTIDAY PACKS. Are used on trips lasting 2-4 days generally and are a popular choice. Their capacity ranges anywhere between 30 and 60 litres and quite often they feature extra storage compartments for specific pursuits, such as walking pole holders, tent carriers, etc. Their back support systems are of a much higher quality as heavier loads are carried. This is the most common rucksack used on the Camino – between 30 and 50 litres should be more than enough.
Some pilgrims turn up on the Camino as part of a trip around Europe or a year off round the world.  They often have one of the following rucksacks, none of them are suitable to walking the Camino.  Any excess weight you have at the start of the Camino can be packaged and sent to Santiago de Compostela to be collect there when you arrive.

ALPINE PACKS.  Are generally between 30 – 60 litres and feature minimalist design. They are slim and made from durable materials so they can be hauled up a climb after you have reached the top. They feature a large main compartment and lid pocket. Their foam back system fits close to the body for greater precision when climbing. Compression straps on the side and an expandable lid give you more options for carrying gear.

EXPEDITION PACKS. Are used on trips lasting over 5 days. Their capacity ranges between 70 litres and over 100 litres. These packs contain the latest rucksack technology and feature substantial back support and load suspensions. They also feature expansion panels which give you more space in your bag and also allow you to pack your gear more efficiently.

GAP YEAR / TRAVEL RUCKSACKS. Over the past few years, backpacking the world has become a national sport for many Irish travellers (primarily students). Travelling between many towns and countries on buses, trains and planes has brought about a new style of rucksack. This adventure travel sack has all of the usual qualities you would find in a conventional rucksack, combined with the ease of use of the suitcase. They:

Are airport and travel friendly.
Zip around the front panel for easy access similar to a suitcase.
Some larger models come with wheels.
All straps can be zipped away to ensure that none of your straps catch on the airports conveyor belts!

Most rucksacks are made with water resistant fabrics, however very few rucksacks are completely waterproof investing in a rain cover to keep all your gear dry and to protect your rucksack is advisable.

Make sure you bear all these things in mind before you go and purchase your rucksack. It may well make a great difference!

 



By caminoadventures.
Image: Pixabay
Recommended Posts
Contáctenos

Puede enviarnos un email y contactaremos a la mayor brevedad posible.

Not readable? Change text. captcha txt

Start typing and press Enter to search