CARE AND FEEDING OF A DAY PACK

The modern day pack is a blessing to the ground pounder. It is possible to carry, lunch, tackle, first aid kit, and anything else one would desire on a day along the shore of his favorite stream, lake or river.

Regardless of how a day pack is used, hiker, fisherman, hunter, book bags, it is subject to wear and tear. With a little maintenance a pack can last through many years of service.

When purchasing a pack wear the kind of jacket you will be wearing while using it. Look for extra long webbing on the shoulder belt adjustment as well as the hip belt. If you do not have your coat with you take a jacket off the rack in the store before putting on a new pack. During inclement weather you will most likely be wearing extra clothing not usually worn to the store while shopping. You should purchase a pack with straps that have extra length so that you have room for expansion.

It is wise to pick a pack with a “haul loop” on the top so that you will not be grabbing the shoulder straps. Repeated carrying of a pack by a single shoulder strap can lead to failure of the strap. This usually happens at the most inopportune time.

Proper maintenance helps you avoid problems later in the field.

Keep all the buckles and shoulder strap buckles fastened when the pack is not worn. When storing the pack it is a good idea to hang it on a clothes hanger by looping the straps over and closed around the hanger for support. Open all the compartments and air out the pack before storage. To prevent mold and mildew be sure that the pack is completely dry. Never store a pack that is wet, damp or dirty.

Packs can be cleaned regularly by using a soft brush and mild soap and water. Never use harsh detergents or tumble dry the pack in a dryer. While cleaning check for abrasions, tears and any loose threads.

Inspect your pack regularly. Check any stress points for abnormal wear. Make repairs as necessary before going into the field. Repairs can be made using strong upholstery thread or unwaxed dental floss and a heavy duty needle.

Take care of all the zippers. Clean them often with an old toothbrush and lubricate them with a high quality silicone spray. Frayed fabric should be trimmed back to keep it from getting caught in the zippers.

When ready to pack for the field distribute the load weight carefully so as not to be unbalanced. Day packs are made to ride on the back with the top of it about six inches below your collar.

It is wise to take the time to experiment with your packing arrangement at home before taking to the field. You will then know exactly where everything is when needed in the woods. Things least likely to be needed should be in the bottom. Clothing is an example. Next are items such as pruning shears, knives, etc. They should be wrapped in zip lock bags with a rubber band around the outside. With these two layers the bag is stable when you set it on the ground. Lighter objects go in the upper layers.
Do not overload a pack. Overloading can cause harm and discomfort to your back. The day pack should only hold things that you might need for one day in the field. Items such as: a first aid kit, extra clothing, rain gear, food for lunch, a camera, and ammo are all that is needed. Items that are sharp such as tent pegs, climbing items like tree spikes, etc. can cause damage to the pack. It you need them wrap them in an item of clothing to protect the pack integrity.

Water bottles, maps, compass, G.P.S. units, and fire starting kits are placed in the outer pockets where they are more accessible. You can also place any snack or trail mix there as well.

Don Gasaway - The Ground Pounder
http://www.dongasaway.wordpress.com/