Climbing backpacks

It distributes load on the approach, but a wide belt can interfere with your climbing harness on the route. Compare narrow, removable or stowable designs and check that you can reach every gear loop you need.

Gather the equipment for your particular route, including jacket and food. A smaller close-fitting pack is often more manageable while climbing. Excess empty space lets contents shift, so compare how the load sits rather than capacity alone.

Only use a pack with attachments explicitly intended and described for that purpose. An ordinary carrying loop may have a different job. Follow the instructions and obtain the skills required for the rope techniques involved.

Keep heavy items close to your back and small objects in secure pockets. Compress the contents so they do not tip as you move. Wearing your helmet, check that you can look up freely and raise both arms comfortably overhead.