How to Pack Your Backpack the Right Way | Outside

Outside editorial fellow Taylor Gee gives us the breakdown of how he packed his backpack for his thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail and, from bottom to top, where gear should go in your kit. Following these guidelines while backpacking will help make sure your load is balanced, which will help you hike longer and farther with less pain.

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5 Comments

  1. I couldn’t understand what you said goes into the brain – your “backpack ???”

  2. And where does the clothing go??

  3. Great, clear packing tips—saved this for my next trip. Thanks!

  4. @OnCountryWithMick January 18, 2026 at 5:02 am

    No Water other then the filtration kit, No first Aid, No fire lighting, No emergency equipment?

  5. No water, no spare clothes… what am I missing here?

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