Packing that Pack - Fill your backpack for comfort 

You can purchase the most expensive and elaborate backpack available but if you don't pack it properly you might as well be carrying a pillow case over your shoulder.   Everyone has their own methods for loading their gear, but there are a few universal tips to follow that will make your next hike more comfortable.

The most important thing to remember is to maintain a center of gravity and a balance point when loading your outdoor gear into your backpack.  Keeping your center of gravity makes hiking more comfortable especially while maneuvering in tight places or on slopes.  Nothing should be taller than your shoulders or below your hips. 

Place your tent and tarps folded flat against your back and build out from there.  Your sleeping bag should be at the bottom of your pack either in its stuff sack or compressed into the pack body at the lowest point.  Heavier items such as food, water, fuel. etc should be placed between your shoulder blades.  Clothing and lighter items can then be used as filler between your sleeping bag and the items that weigh the most. 

Of course, items that you frequently need are best kept at the outermost portions of your pack or in the pockets on the outside of your backpack for easy access.

Using these few simple guidelines in conjunction with your own system and the type of backpack you have will make your next hiking trip a smoother more comfortable venture.