- Keep your center of gravity low. This means placing heavier items as low as possible.
- Sandwich hard items with soft malleable items to minimise gaps.
- No empty space! Uniform density is ideal, and will add to the comfort and balance of your pack.
- Keep your gear organised with stuff sacks for easy access.
- Avoid hanging excess gear off the outside of your pack. Anything that is strapped outside (tools and tents) should be well-secured so as not to affect your balance.
- Pack small items inside bulky, awkward items such as helmets and cookware.
- Assess how much water you should carry. Know when you are passing streams or consider an all-in-one stove that can melt snow for drinking in just a few minutes.
Smart packing
