How to choose the right backpack for Mount Kilimanjaro
When you are planning your hike up Mount Kilimanjaro, it is vital that you choose the right backpack. This is because you will be spending several days on the mountain and certainly can’t afford to carry the wrong kind of bag. You don’t want something too heavy, too large and a bag that is simply too difficult to carry. Nor do you want a bag too small to fit your essentials! Simply put, you will need the right size and right quality.
Therefore, we put together this detailed guide so that you don’t find yourself confused and spending too much time selecting a backpack. No need to do much research – what we tell you below should suffice. Hopefully, when you choose the right one, it will last you for years to come.
Size:
As mentioned above, you don’t want to be carrying a bag that is too big while hiking up a mountain. You definitely do not need that kind of strain on your body. The correct size for you can also be determined by your height and body type. Simply try it on before you purchase it, and see how comfortable it feels.
Cost:
Buying a high-end brand may not be necessary when choosing a bag, because even the medium range brands can do the job just as well. We would suggest a budget of nothing more than $200. Try out brands like North Face, the quality is great and it is not too expensive. If you get something on sale, even better!
Look out for the material:
Why? Because it needs to be waterproof! Yes, it could rain on the mountain, you could face changing weather conditions and you want all your stuff to be protected. Not to say it needs to be heavy material. You can have something light, yet a hundred percent waterproof.
Can it be locked?
You need to make sure your backpack is lockable, since you won’t have your backpack with you all the time while you are in Moshi (before and after you climb the mountain). It’s also important to note that you may not always be aware of your surroundings at the airport. When you travel you must make sure your belongings, especially money and passport, are super safe with you!
Compartments:
The bag should have separate sections where you can divide your belongings. This is to avoid scrambling around looking for things. Keep separate sections for clothes, toiletries, medicines and whatever else you will need on your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Hip belt:
These belts come with most backpacks. You may have noticed many backpackers with belts tied to their waist/hips. This helps support the weight on long journeys, hence less impact on your back. Make sure the hip belt is padded for extra comfort. Note that both the shoulder and hip straps should be padded.
