How to Pack Your Rucksack for Wild Camping
Packing your rucksack well isn’t just about fitting everything in—it’s about balance, comfort, and being able to move lightly. Over the years I’ve trialled a bunch of wild camping trips, messed up a few packs, and picked up what actually works. This guide will walk you through wild camping packing tips so your load feels lighter, your gear is accessible, and your back stops complaining.
Choosing the Right Rucksack Size & Fit
Before you even start throwing stuff in, make sure your rucksack itself is up to the job.
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For 2-6 days, a 30-45 litre pack often does the trick.
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For longer trips (7-13 days), you might need 45-60 litres or more.
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Prioritise a pack with a padded hip belt, contoured shoulder straps, and good frame or suspension system so most of the weight rests on your hips—not your shoulders.
Mastering Load Distribution: Balance & Weight Placement
How you put things in matters.
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Heaviest gear goes closest to your back, in the middle section. That means your cooking gear, fuel, maybe even your tent body if it’s heavy. Keep it centred and low for better stability.
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Bulky but lighter items like sleeping bag, clothing usually at the bottom. That adds stability.
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Top section: stuff you’ll need often or early—rain jacket, snacks, first aid.
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Use external pockets or hip-belt pouches for items you might want without taking off the pack (e.g. map, sunscreen, water bottle).
Using Compression, Organisation & Dry Bags
Organisation is what separates a pack you barely notice and a pack that you’re constantly fiddling with.
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Use compression straps to tighten the pack once you’re full—helps avoid bouncing gear and keeps the centre of gravity stable.
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Stuff gaps with softer items (extra clothes, socks) so they absorb space and stop gear moving around.
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Use dry bags or liners to protect gear from moisture. Water can ruin your kit, especially sleeping bag and spare clothes.
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Pack cubes or stuff sacks help group similar items together (e.g. clothing, sleeping kit, food) so you can unload quickly and know where things are.
Prioritising Essentials: What to Pack First
You don’t need every single “nice to have” from day one. Here’s what tends to be most important:
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Shelter (tent or bivvy)
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Sleeping bag + sleeping mat (insulated)
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Weatherproof outer layers (jacket / rain suit)
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Cooking gear + food + water purification
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Navigation & safety items (map, compass, first aid)
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Extra socks, gloves, hat—especially in UK or colder seasons.
Fine-Tuning for Comfort & Long Hikes
Once you've got the basics, these tweaks make your life easier on the trail.
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Distribute weight so your hips take the bulk—feel for discomfort when walking; adjust straps accordingly.
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Put things you might need in bad weather (rain jacket, waterproof trousers) near top or outer so you can grab without unpacking.
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Don’t overpack food/water. Water is heavy; carry just enough and have purification options.
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Use lightweight but durable gear—good mat, comfy sleeping pad, quality boots. Your shoulders and back will thank you when the terrain is rough or when you’re tired.
Frequently Asked Questions
What capacity rucksack is ideal for a 3-day wild camping trip?
For a 2-6 day wild camping trip, aim for a 30-45 litre rucksack if you travel light. If you want extras or gear for cold nights, go 45-60L.
Where should I put my sleeping bag when packing?
Sleeping bag generally goes at the bottom of your pack—helps with balance and keeps bulky stuff out of the way till you reach camp. If you use a dry bag, bottom slot is safer and prevents moisture issues.
How do I avoid aching shoulders and back?
Ensure the heaviest items are close to your back and near your hips. Use a pack with a good hip belt, adjust shoulder straps properly, and distribute weight evenly. Compression straps help. Walking with heavy uneven loads causes strain.
Should I pack things externally on the rucksack?
You can attach some items externally (sleeping mats, trekking poles), but avoid too much external load—it can swing, throw off balance or snag on brush. Use loops and straps wisely.
Final Thoughts
Packing your rucksack “right” makes a wild camping trip much more enjoyable. When your gear is organised, balanced, and accessible:
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You walk more comfortably
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You access essentials fast when weather changes or night falls
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You avoid unnecessary stress and aches
Next time I pack, I always think: what's absolutely essential, what can go in soft stuff at bottom, and what needs to be up top. Do that, test it with weight on, make small adjustments—and your rucksack will no longer feel like a burden but a reliable partner in your adventure.