A sternum strap connects the two shoulder straps across the chest. Its main job is stabilization, not carrying the majority of the backpack's weight.Quick Answer: Position the sternum strap across the upper chest where it feels comfortable, then tighten just enough to keep the shoulder straps from sliding outward. It should not restrict breathing or pull the shoulder straps painfully toward the neck.Browse Hiking...

A hip belt can be a major comfort feature or unnecessary extra webbing depending on the backpack's load. The key difference is whether the belt is designed to transfer weight to the pelvis or simply stabilize the bag.Quick Answer: Light school, work, and daypacks often do not need a hip belt. Heavier hiking and travel backpacks benefit from a padded load-bearing belt when the...

Torso length is one of the most important measurements for fitting a larger hiking or travel backpack. Height alone does not predict torso length accurately, which is why two people of the same height may need different pack sizes.Quick Answer: Find the C7 vertebra at the base of your neck, then find the top of your iliac crest at the hips. Measure along the...