Hiking backpacks are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors.
They come in all shapes and sizes, and are designed to carry everything from food and water to shelter and clothing.
However, when it comes to storing your hiking backpack, many people may not realize the importance of doing it properly.
If you don’t store your hiking backpack correctly, it can lead to a variety of issues. For one, it can damage the integrity of the backpack, causing it to wear out faster than it should.
Additionally, improper storage can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, or other types of bacteria, which can be harmful to your health.
Finally, storing your hiking backpack in a place where it is exposed to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight can cause the materials to break down more quickly, rendering your backpack useless sooner than it should be.
In this article, we’ll discuss why it’s crucial to store your hiking backpack correctly, and where you should store it.
Contents
My mistakes when storing a hiking backpack
To illustrate the importance of proper backpack storage, let me tell you a story about a mistake I made.
A few years ago, I went on a backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest. It was a beautiful trip, but unfortunately, I didn’t store my backpack properly when I got home.
I left it in the garage, where it was exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures.
When I went to use it again a few months later, I found that the backpack had developed mold, and the materials had started to break down.
I had to buy a new backpack, which was an expense I could have avoided if I had stored my backpack correctly.
Where Should You Store Your Hiking Backpack?
When it comes to storing your hiking backpack, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, make sure that the backpack is completely dry before storing it. Any moisture left in the backpack can lead to the growth of mold or mildew.
Next, store your backpack in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Here are some common storage solutions for hiking backpacks:
- In a closet: You can store your hiking backpack in a closet, either hanging or standing upright. This keeps it out of the way and protects it from damage.
- On a shelf: If you have a dedicated shelf for your outdoor gear, you can store your backpack there. Just make sure it’s not too high up or too low down, and that it won’t fall off.
- In a garage or mudroom: If you have a space where you can store your outdoor gear, such as a garage or mudroom, you can keep your backpack there. Just make sure it’s not exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- On a hook or hanger: You can hang your backpack on a hook or hanger, either on the wall or on the back of a door. This keeps it off the ground and out of the way.
- In a storage bin: If you need to store your backpack for an extended period of time, you can put it in a storage bin. Just make sure it’s clean and dry before you pack it away.
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Finally, avoid storing your backpack in a compressed state, as this can damage the materials and reduce the backpack’s overall lifespan.
Remember to clean and dry your backpack thoroughly before storing it to prevent mold, mildew, or other damage.
And always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific storage recommendations.
Last words
In conclusion, properly storing your hiking backpack is essential if you want to get the most out of your investment.
Make sure to store your backpack in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, and avoid storing it in a compressed state.
This way, your hiking backpack can stay with you for longer.
