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have weights to put in the pack so you can see how it feels with weight in it. It doesn't take much weight but you need some to settle the pack to the right position. Ask for those weights and put the pack on with weight in it.

Now tighten the hip belt right at the iliac crest, but not so tight that it interferes with breathing. Then tighten the shoulder straps. With those straps tight, reach back above them and you should find a strap on each side called a load lifter. Tighten those to pull the upper part of the pack into your back so it isn't pulling you over backwards.

Next, tighten the sternum strap to your comfort. You may have to adjust its position so it is at your sternum, not on your neck choking you (or have the store employee adjust it).

Some packs have straps on the back of the hip belt to help pull the lower part of the pack into the curve of your lower back. If the pack has those, tighten them to your comfort.

Now loosen the shoulder straps a bit. If the pack fits well you should have maybe an eighth of an inch of clearance between the top of your shoulders and those straps. This is the fit you are most likely to use when hiking though you may want to sometimes tighten the shoulder straps to give your hips a rest.

Many packs have an adjustable torso length for the shoulder straps. However the adjustment method is by no means standard, it varies widely from model to model. If necessary, get the store employee to help you adjust it properly.

Now walk around the store a while with the pack on, weight in it. See how it feels. If the store has stairs climb them a few times. You're going to be wearing that pack for miles, be certain it feels comfortable before you part with your hard-earned cash. If it doesn't, try a different size or model. If it feels comfortable that is probably the one you want.

Learn more about this author, Hal Lillywhite.
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