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The Benefits of Using a Lathe Machine

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The lathe machine tool shapes an object by cutting, sanding, drilling or formation with tool by rotating the object on its axis. Generally a lathe machine is used to give shape to workpieces and has many parts. Most of them are feed service lever, back gear level, head stock, face plate, tool post, compound rest, saddle, clutch knob and half nut lever. Each and every part of the machine is very important and performs very complicated functions. The person who operates the machine is called turner. It fully depends on the experienced turner to do a great job which demands huge level of attention.

There are different types of lathe machines which are used for wood working, metal working, glass working, metal spinning, ornamental turning, shaping, rotary & watchmaking. Every type of lathe is used for specific function. For example, a steel workshop uses metal working lathes & a carpentry workshop uses wood working ones. A Lathe machine can be used to shape different objects. Besides, a solid round bar can be shaped to a bolt by making specific thread. It can be used for complicated drilling where it’s hard in the general drilling machine and can drill at specific angles by setting degrees.

Boring is the another function of lathe machine which is used to make holes inside an object. It can cut 6 inches of hole easily by using sharp tools. There are two types of tools mostly used for cutting solid material like M.S. cutting tool & diamond cutting tool. These two kinds of tools are used for fine tuning an object. The lathe object is used to sharpen is an alloy which is formed by adding some materials to harden it. Lathing concept has been formed since 1300(B.C) to the present. During this time it had evolved for different functions especially in mechanical works, carpentry works, glass works and steel fabrication where it’s contribution has been very essential.

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Source by Sam Mathews

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When Should You Consider Underpinning Services?

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Underpinning is a process used in construction to strengthen and stabilize the foundations of existing buildings and other structures. It is the repair process that can give foundations their strength back after being weakened by different factors. Generally, the area under the building is focused on, repaired and reinforced so it is strong again. There are many types of underpinning and repair projects; the issue on your building will usually determine the approach your service provider takes to strengthen your building. But when should you really consider getting the underpinning services for your home, building or structure?

Your walls have cracks. Appearance of cracks in your walls is among the common signs that your building could be in need of underpinning. They may start off as small cracks and then progress into bigger cracks. Such cracks often start inside the building but it is also very possible for them to appear on the exterior. As soon as the cracks start bothering you, you should have them checked so the best underpinning solution can be given on time.

The property leans to one side. Visible leaning could only mean that there is something seriously wrong with your foundation of the soil underneath for that matter. It is a dangerous point, but when you get underpinning professionals as soon as you spot the line, then something can be done before things get worse. Keeping an eye on your property is very important because underlying issues can be tackled before they develop further.

Your windows and doors stick. Whereas temperature changes can interfere with a smooth closing and opening of doors and windows, especially those with wooden frames, if it is a problem you are just beginning to experience you should have it checked out. Usually, when the frames are no aligned properly, you will start having sticking doors and windows. If multiple doors on your property are routinely sticking and the issue was not there before, it is best that you get an expert to give their opinion just in case underpinning might be necessary.

The basement is showing changes. Moisture seepage, sinking into soil bed, extensive cracking are all signs that your basement could need underpinning. If it also seems to leak internal heat even after repairs, then you should get a second opinion with underpinning experts. Basement reinforcement could also be necessary when large buildings get constructed nearby and you notice large soil compaction below your basement or you just require more strength to carry additional weight when more floors are added.

You no longer have trust with original foundation. This could be because the building is old and you feel the foundation could be unstable as a result of decay of wood underneath it. It could also be that you lost trust in the strength because the usage of your building has changed and a stronger one is therefore necessary. Whatever your reason for feeling the foundation is no longer strong enough, it is best that you check with a professional so that the necessary underpinning can be done to save your structure.

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Source by Shalini Madhav

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Types Of Food Processing Equipments Used In Industries

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The process of converting raw food ingredients into processed food is known as food processing. Various types of equipments and machines can be used for this purpose. There are various types of equipments available which include peelers and cutters, industrial mixer grinders, meat grinders, fast food equipments, slicers, biscuit machines and so forth. Automated homogenizers processing systems are widely used for industrial and commercial uses in various food industries.

There are various types of food processing equipments used for various types of fast food products such as potato fries, noodles, tofu and so forth. Most of these equipments can be bought from both online and offline stores at affordable price rates. Various types of equipments for processing meat, fish and so forth can also be bought from online stores. There are different equipments for home, industrial and commercial usages.

Different types of equipments are available for processing food for space astronauts. Most of these equipments are made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum and so forth. There are a huge assortment of equipments which include the de-boning machines, ice machines, vacuum tumblers, stuffing machines and so forth.

The sonolator is one of the most efficient high pressure homogenizer which is used for effective mixing. It is used in most of the food and beverage companies for processing various food items such as frozen dinner sauces, purees, dinner sauces and so forth.

The colloid mill is another effective automated system which is used to process various other types of food stuffs such as salad dressing, mayonnaise, butter emulsions, margarine and mustard.

Various types of food processing equipments are used in most of the commercial sectors for processing various types of food items. The size of these machines varies according to its use as large equipments are used for industrial purposes and small sized equipments are used for domestic purposes. Different types of beverage processing equipments such as coffee blending machines, mixers, soda dispensers and so forth can be bought from online stores at various prices.

It is essential to purchase equipments which meet international standards to ensure the health of users. The machines need to be cleaned and maintained by professionals for the production of hygienic food products.

An array of tools and equipments are used in various other food manufacturing industries. These tools can be used to make the entire system function appropriately. Sharpening steels, bandsaw blades, food grade grease, knives, injector needles and so forth are some of the other most important and useful tools used in most of the industries and homes these days.

Some companies order bulk purchases of a whole set of equipments for processing various types of food items such as can openers, beef processors, cook tanks and many more. Most of these products can be bought from online stores at affordable price rates.

These tools and machineries can also be ordered in bulk amounts from various online stores at discounted price rates. There are many offline stores too which offer different kinds of tools and machines for processing various types of raw food items.

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Source by Anamika Swami

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Is Bitcoin Safe?

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It is reported that the Bitcoin is rolling into forbidden grounds as it creates a spate of controversy among the “high” society and savvy digital investors. These digital marketers try to gain their share of the billion-dollar-a-day digital pie while corporate society seeks to curtail the spiral hike in the value of what seems to be a “monetary menace”. Some who strive on exploiting the poor and vulnerable are not having this as they try to inoculate the masses in an attempt to put down this growing “digital monster.”

These seemingly corporate crooks continue to put a choke-hold on how the less fortunate spend their money as they try to build financial cartels worldwide but thanks to digital technology, Bitcoins have revolutionized money control in the 21st!

The Cons

Despite the growth of digital currencies such as Bitcoins, it would be remiss of me to not disclose the cons of these virtual currencies. Due to the fact that their digital footprints are encrypted, they cannot be traced online. Although one has the pleasure of privacy and security when trading, it provides another gateway to hide and conduct illicit transactions.

When this happens, drug dealers, terrorist and other suspected culprits, will continue to conduct their illicit trade without detection when using Bitcoins.

The Pros

However, amidst the monetary mayhem, Bitcoins offer anyone tremendous investment opportunities and growth potential. No one controls virtual currency as it can be accessed by the public in cyberspace and the value continues to appreciate while the society stumbles on the debris of inflation.

An ordinary man on the streets can buy, save, trade, invest and increase his chances of becoming financially successful without the interference of government restrictions, controls, and fiduciary regulations; hence spiral inflations become things of the past.

Many truly believe the number 1 problem in our society is establishing financial monopolies. When one corporation decides to control foreign exchange, gold, and fuel, it uses its power to dictate how money should be spent.

Regulations set by large and wealthy multi-corporations are only geared to add more wealth and power to their portfolio rather than benefiting borrowers who seek financial help. In addition, the ones at the top try to drain the swamp so others can depend on them while they can become wealthier but they can’t control digital currency!

The Brighter Side of the Coin

Time has come to open the eyes of the world and that is what Bitcoin is all about. The ones who try to control the world are threatened by this Frankenstein but I doubt they can stop it or call the shots. Currently, 1 Bitcoin values $844099.07 Jamaican Dollar or $6895.80 US Dollar. The cost for 1 Bitcoin in 2009 was.05 USD!

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Source by Osric Griffiths

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Canoeing on the Shannon River, Ireland

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The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland. It runs for 224 miles, draining into the Shannon River Basin and is a geographical barrier that separates west Ireland from the south and east. There are fewer than thirty crossing points between Limerick and the village of Dowra to the north. The length and the geographical location make this river a favourite with those who enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

Many sections of the river, which winds its way through the lake-lands of Ireland, through eleven counties, are perfect for a gentle paddling excursion. Perhaps the best section though is the 80 km stretch between Shannonbridge, County Offaly and the two twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina on the Clare-Tipperary border. This is a blissfully peaceful way to explore this wildlife packed region. Winding your way through this bucolic idyll you will understand why this river has the reputation that it does.

By travelling along this waterway you will be journeying along a path that many before you have taken throughout history. The River Shannon is one of Ireland’s oldest routes – far more important, of course, when there were fewer roads to cross Ireland’s wild and rugged terrain. The river’s shores have been inhabited since prehistoric times and from the early Mediaeval period a variety of people have passed down this watery highway; from pilgrims to soldiers, from traders to raiders, all slices of life have been found on the Shannon River.

Today you will see many historic sites as you take one of the canoe trails along the river. There are castles, ancient ruins, tower houses, monasteries and churches, as well as remnants of the nineteenth-century industry found on this river and the lakes it passes through. It is hard to imagine, as you paddle along through a pristine natural environment, that this was once such a bustling thoroughfare.

The bird life on and around the Shannon river is one of the major enticements to visit this region. In relatively undisturbed habitats along the course of the river, for example around one of Ireland’s largest lakes, Lough Derg which is on the major canoeing route, you may see a coot, duck, moorhen, grebe, heron, gull, cormorant, bunting, mute swan or kingfisher going about their business. Summer visitors, for example warblers, swifts, swallows and house martins, are still found here in abundance.

A number of picturesque little towns and villages are to be found along the river, each of which is an access point for the river and a place to find accommodation for the night, or refreshment after the exercise of propelling yourself down stream.

If you have never been in a canoe or a kayak before then it is a good idea to book in for a proper lesson or two before embarking on a major trip. There are a number of operators offering both lessons and canoe hire in the area, which can be reached by plane to Shannon Airport, or by ferry and car or public transport. If you are looking for a safe place to take your first major canoeing adventure then the lovely Shannon River could be a wonderful holiday destination.

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Source by Elizabeth Waddington

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Best Travel Destinations in England

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Royalty! This is the first thing that might pop into your mind when you think about England. Yes, it does house the world’s richest and most popular royal family, but that’s not all there is to England. From small thatched villages to museums and royal castles, England can offer you almost anything that you might want. Don’t believe me? Well why don’t you take a trip to England and find out for yourself. (And here’s a pro travel tip: Save your money and just Buy British Airways Miles when you travel). So if you plan to come to England, here’s a list of places you should definitely go to:

1. The London Eye, London:

Big fan of panoramic views? Then this is the place for you to go to. This exaggeration of a Ferris wheel literally takes you on the ride of your life. Taking you to a height of 440 feet, the London Eye gives you a look at the whole of London city along with its everyday hustle and bustle. The passenger capsules which carry you up are made of glass thus providing you with the opportunity to have a great 360 degree view of everything. What more do you want?

2. The City Of Bath:

You know how they say that good things come in small packages? Well, the city of Bath is the perfect example of this situation. Though small, this city still has a lot of things to offer to its tourists. The Romanian baths, after which this city is named, are the perfect place to relax if you’re looking into getting away from everything. That combined with the Georgian Townhouses all around town will give you the lightheaded experience that you’re looking for.

3. The Buckingham Palace, London:

One of the few palaces that are in working condition till today, The Buckingham Palace will give you the chance to take a look at the Queen’s guard all dickered out in their finest red and black livery. Do they really not move no matter what happens? Well why don’t you go yourself and find out.

4. The Tower Of London:

The Tower of London is basically a historic castle that is located on the north bank of the river Thames. This tower of London houses the largest diamond in the world, so even if you’re not a big fan of heights or castles I would still suggest you go there to get a good look at that beauty.

5. The Stonehenge, Salisbury:

This historical monument located in Wiltshire is popular for its apocalyptic description in pop culture. This ring of stones has so many theories about its origin that hearing them alone wants you to go and see what all the mystery is about. And once you go there, you will be spellbound. That I promise. So plan your trip to the Stonehenge now and just remember that in order to save money all you have to do is Buy British Airways Miles

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Source by Douglas H Wise

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Space-Saving Benefits of Bifold Shower Doors

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The bifold door style is popular for its flexibility. It can be used in various residential applications, including closets, kitchen pantry, bedrooms and many more. Bifold is also the preferred style by homeowners who have small bathrooms.

Bifold doors open inwards, thus saving a lot of space. When opened, the door folds inwards and aligns with the wall. Aside from its space-saving feature, a bifold door also reduces water drips and it comes in various colors, finishes and sizes that it would fit in any bathroom decor.

You can choose from a wide array of doors offered by online retailers (PlumbWorld.co.uk, Kaboodle.com, etc). Some may offer wholesale prices or discount. Here are some bifold shower doors for your perusal.

Hydrolux Bi-Fold Shower Enclosure Pack with Tray:

This door has watertight seal to prevent leaking. Door kits include a bifold door, side panel, white shower tray in capped stone resin and self-cleaning shower device. The enclosure features a 6mm-thick toughened clear glass, fully framed styling, right or left hand opening and acrylic capped shell. Available sizes are 740mm to 760mm and 880mm to 900mm.

Manhattan 800mm White Bifold Shower Door:

This bi fold door has excellent gliding action with simple lines and maximum versatility. It features a 5mm-thick toughened safety glass and new handle design. It stands 1,830mm with adjust-ability from 754mm to 804mm.

Breuer Eleganca 900mm Bi-fold Shower Door White Frame/Clear Glass:

This space-saving enclosure has white frame and clear glass. The folding door opens inward so it can be fitted into a corner shower stall or bathtub. It has a 50mm adjust ability and comes with an acrylic shower tray in white color and a chrome waste. Available sizes are 1,850mm in height and 900mm in width.

900 Bifold Shower Door from Matrix:

This chrome finish door has 6mm-thick tempered safety glass. Just like other Matrix doors and enclosures, this door has also been tested and proven to be suitable for use with any modern power showers. It comes with adjustment rails for optimum fit. The dimensions are 900mm in width and 1,850 in height. This door retails under model number BF90-BFP90.

Aquasata Bifold Shower Doors:

The Aquasata bifold doors are popular replacement choices for small contemporary bathrooms. They come in various models. The Aquasata 700mm model features a 4mm-thick toughened safety glass, polished chrome finish, reversible hand opening and measures 640mm to 700mm. The Aquasata 800mm model is also polished chrome and measures 740mm to 800mm. Meanwhile, the Aquasata 1200 model is best for larger openings. It also can be fitted either right or left hand opening and has polished chrome and 4mm-thick toughened safety glass. It measures 1140mm to 120mm.

Tempeste Bi-Fold Shower Doors:

This door is constructed based on a semi-frameless design. It used a 6mm-thick toughened glass. The premium ClearShield finish is used on the glass to make sure that the door will retain its new look for a long period of time. The aluminum frame is polished chrome to ensure high quality. The door is available in various models with adjustment choices of 710mm to 760mm and 850mm to 900mm.

With bifold shower doors, you get to have a practical, space-saving and affordable replacement door.

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Source by Kevin Wynn

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How Do You Clean an Escalator?

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What are the different ways to clean an escalator? People don’t think about what a hard and arduous task it can be to clean an escalator. There are many moving components and this type of flooring can be difficult to bring back to new or near new condition. There are three common ways to clean an escalator. The first is by hand which can be a very time consuming and difficult job with poor outcomes. The second is using a small portable auto scrubber with dual rotating brushes. The third and ultimate way to clean an escalator is to use a professional escalator cleaner.

Cleaning and escalator by hand can be done, but requires either a massive commitment of time or an over-whelming amount of man power. The most difficult part of cleaning this ever-moving stairway are the groves on each step. Over time dirt and debris gets caught in these groves and builds up becoming compacted and hard to remove. Using physical man power the only way to clean these groves is to use a brush and clean out every grove one by one, on some escalators there can be thousands of groves which could take days if not weeks to clean.

There are many companies worldwide that produce floor equipment for cleaning many types of flooring. Some of these companies produce smaller auto scrubbers with counter rotating brushes that can deep clean grout lines and groves such as escalator steps. These machines are capable of light duty cleaning of escalator steps but do not have the brush bristle length to reach the into the deep groves of the steps. This is an easy alternative for removing top debris but will only scratch the surface and will not bring the escalator system back to its original appearance.

The ultimate way to clean an escalator is to use a professional escalator cleaning machine. These machines are designed to easily move from step to step and utilize a water pump system that first sprays water into the groves of the step. After water is jetted into the step long rotating brushes clean deep down to remove the toughest debris that has been compacted over time. To complete the cleaning cycle a strong vacuum system is used to extract the dirt and water from the steps bringing the escalator back to its original new looking condition.

Starting any business can be difficult but escalator cleaning is a great way to get into the commercial cleaning industry. There are two major items needed to start your own escalator cleaning business. The first is a professional escalator cleaner. These cleaning machines can range from $20,000 to $50,000 depending on the features the unit has. A good quality escalator cleaner can weigh up to 1500 pounds so be sure to choose one that comes with a transport system so it can be easily loaded in and out of a trailer or van.

Depending on your location and the size of the escalator the average escalator cleaning job can easily cost between $2000 to $5000 for just one cleaning. It is important to have the right equipment to perform the job professionally so that you can build up repeat clientele. Make sure to use a machine from a reputable manufacturer who produces the best and most durable escalator cleaning equipment.

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Source by L. D. Harris

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Neoprene Koozies Vs Polyurethane Koozies: What’s the Difference?

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Promotional Can Coolers are a great way to get your personalized logo, graphics, or message into the hands of your target audience. They are an economic and functional solution for your next personal or business marketing campaign. Choose from a variety of designs, choosing color, size, and material. There is a large selection of colors to match the theme of your special event, or to help highlight your custom printed image. There are also two sizes of can cooler to choose from, which depends on the material it is constructed out of: the neoprene can coolers hold only 12oz beverages while the Polyurethane Foam holds 12oz or 16oz beverages. Each of these personalized can coolers can be manufactured from either three millimeter thick Neoprene or polyurethane foam. Both of these designs feature superior comfort, insulation, and style.

The printed Neoprene can coolers are made of a thinner material, fit all 12oz cans, and have a large 2.5″H X 2.4″W print area. This is because neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber that will maintain its insulation despite the thickness of the material, as well as being extremely flexible and durable. However, unlike other rubber-like materials, neoprene is much more affordable, making it suitable for a broad variety of uses like: wet suits, laptop sleeves, and dishwashing gloves. Alternately, the polyurethane foam material is slightly thicker but with a different construction. This makes it suitable for 12-16oz cans, long neck bottles, and water bottles. Polyurethane has a number of uses that depend on the form that the material takes. Depending on how it is processed, polyurethane can be a thick sturdy plastic, a thin sheet, or a foam.. Polyurethane foam comes in two basic constructions: open cell and closed cell. Open cell polyurethane foam allows air to pass easily through the material, making it comfortable and suitable for mattress pads or seat cushions.

The polyurethane foam construction in these can coolers is actually a closed cell foam, meaning it has bubbles of gas trapped in the material. This makes it a good insulator, but also makes it a little thicker than the solid neoprene. The polyurethane foam can coolers allow a 2.5″ Width x 2.25″ Height print area, which is slightly smaller than the neoprene design. Regardless of the material you choose for your can coolers, the quality of printed images or text will not be affected. It is often hard to find a promotional product that will not only attract the attention of your target audience, but also incline them to pick it up and use it. Can coolers are a great idea for promotional giveaways or as unique party favors because they are functional and can be easily folded to fit in your pocket. This will encourage your guests to bring your promotional product home and save it for further use. Choose these personalized can coolers for your next business function or organizational event, because they will provide the type of logo or brand visibility that is essential to a promotional campaign.

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Source by Amin Ramjee

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How to Buy a Hiking Backpack

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Being lifelong travelers, we all love our lightweight, multipurpose gear that can withstand the rigors of the road. Gear should be dependable, multifunctional, durable and perform beyond expectations. Nothing could be truer when it comes to buying a good hiking backpack, especially considering it’s going to be your home away from home. Traveling, especially long-term, will literally test the limits of your bag and your body, and as such this decision should never be made impulsively. Buying your backpack should not be a rushed decision and factors like trip length, capacity, material, functionally and comfort should always be considered. When I first got serious about investing in a good pack, I was at REI for a good 3 hours -I think they started to suspect I was applying for a job.

If my three hours was any indication, buying a good backpack is not an easy task. With hundreds of backpack manufacturers and styles, it can understandably be overwhelming. Whatever you do, don’t go cheap. You’ll be doing yourself a disservice and end up buying a new one anyways. A good backpack is an investment. You needn’t spend $500 on a backpack, but be wary of cheap, no-frills, run of the mill $70 brands, as you’ll regret the design flaws and absence of extras. Spend a little more for a good backpack from a trusted brand, and it will be your companion for many trips to come. The Osprey pack I eventually settled on has traveled with me from the U.S to the Middle East for 10 awesome years and I know it has another good 10 years to go.

Travel Backpack or Hiking Backpack

Before you begin shopping for the right pack, it’s important to know the difference between travel backpacks and hiking backpacks. A travel backpack is a backpack-suitcase hybrid with a zippered side panel similar to a suitcase. Hiking backpacks are the more commonly seen cylindrical top loading packs with straps, clips and a top lid. Some people have an opinion that hiking backpacks are only suited for the backcountry and has no place for the backpacker, I disagree. What works for you ultimately comes down to personal preference and style of travel. Travel backpacks are great for easy, organized access to gear and transporting from hostel to hostel. They also function well for short walks or even as a daypack.

On the other hand, if you possibly have camping or long treks in your travel plans, you may want to consider a hiking backpack. Hiking backpacks are designed for comfort, proper weight distribution, and toughness. Unlike a travel backpack, hiking backpacks will have enhancements like full-sized hip belts, shoulder and back suspension systems along with plenty of load bearing straps to mitigate discomfort. Granted the top down packing isn’t as convenient to access your gear, but that’s part in parcel to proper weight distribution. A good compromise would be to get a hiking backpack with side load access.

I am generalizing a bit as they do have travel backpacks that are in the upper capacity range with more advanced suspension systems, but if you’re going to get a 70L travel backpack, you may as well go with a hiking backpack. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did for that unexpected 20 mile trek to the next town.

Personal Backpacking Style

Next, determine the style of travel you normally like to do. Unless you’re willing to buy a different backpack for each trip, figuring out your travel style will save you a lot of money in the long run and give you a piece of foundation gear that’s ready for any trip. For instance, if you generally go on week long trips you needn’t get a high capacity bag and could probably get away with a 35 liter to 50 liter (L) pack, whereas living long-term on the road may require 65L or greater.

Size is pretty subjective though and shouldn’t be the only determining factor. Some people are able to pack very bare bones, where others require a bit more. Consider these factors:

How long is your trip:

Depending on the length of your trip the capacity and overall weight of your pack will vary. Short trips require less capacity, and long trips typically require more. But be aware that the bigger the pack the heavier it will become. 50lbs may not seem a lot at first, but 2 months in and it will feel like a ton of bricks.

What Type of Activities will you do:

I personally feel that one bag can rule them all since I generally use my pack for everything. However, this may not be the case for everyone. Knowing what type of activity you’ll be doing will help you zero in on that perfect backpack. If you’re not planning on carrying it around much, consider a travel backpack or even a wheeled backpack, whereas if you foresee yourself doing long treks then a hiking backpack may be more suitable. I like to be prepared for any type of spontaneous activity, so I lean more towards hiking backpacks. Also, hiking backpacks are generally made a bit tougher, so keep in mind that the more challenging the activity, the greater the stress on the bag.

Lightweight or the kitchen sink:

Although I mentioned earlier that size is not the main determining factor, it’s still important to consider capacity based on what you plan to bring. If ultra light is your goal, avoid high capacity backpacks as you’ll invariably bring too much or if you do manage to pack light your backpack won’t distribute the weight properly. Conversely, if your backpack is too small, you won’t be able to fit everything in. Have an idea of the gear you’re bringing and pick the capacity of your bag accordingly. Don’t hesitate to bring your items to the store to see how it fits in the packs. A reputable retailer, like REI, won’t have a problem with this.

What To Look For In A Hiking Backpack

Backpacks vary in functionality as much as they do in appearance, with the more expensive models having the most bells and whistles. As with everything, your decision here is closely related to what type of traveling you like to do.

Water Resistant

Your pack is probably not going to be completely waterproof. Meaning, if submerged, or in a torrential downpour your clothing and equipment will still get wet. Although most backpacks now come with a rain cover, you still want it to be made of a tough, rip proof, and lightweight silicone coated nylon or Cordura type material that allows rain or water to bead off and not soak through.

Detachable Daypack

this option is really a personal preference, and not really a deal breaker, as many travelers bring an additional pack for day trips. But for those focused on traveling light, carrying two bags can be cumbersome. I personally like the option of a detachable daypack as I have it only when I need it. On my Osprey, the top lid doubles as a daypack. Not as comfortable as a dedicated daypack, but it serves its purpose.

Heavy-duty Lockable Zippers

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. No matter how good the material of the backpack, if the attachment points, like zippers, are weak the whole bag is worthless. Make sure the zippers are tough and lockable where applicable.

Pockets and Compartments

The more compartments the better. Good backpacks usually have a number of compartments to help store and separate your gear so you won’t have to sift through layers of clothes just to find your chapstick. For instance, maps can go in the top flap, while your flip-flops are stored conveniently in the side pocket. However you decide to pack, separate pockets allow easy and quick access to your gear. Most backpacks will also have strategically placed pockets, like on the hipbelt, so you can get to your gear without having to drop your pack.

Lightweight Internal Frame

Backpacks generally come with an internal frame, external frame, or no frame at all. I strongly recommend a lightweight internal frame made from strong carbon fiber rods. This provides more load support and just looks better. External frames are bulky, conspicuous, and use dated technology and frameless backpacks have awful load support at higher weights. Trust me, without proper weight distribution, you’re shoulders are going to feel every single one of those pounds.

Side Load Access

I’m seeing less and less of this function on the newer backpacks, but if you do happen to find one with side access you’re golden. You’ll be able to access items from the main compartment of the bag without digging in from the top. You’re life will just be that much simpler.

Suspension System with Padded Shoulders and Load Bearing Straps

Don’t even consider buying a backpack unless it has either an adjustable or fixed suspension system, along with a bunch of load bearing straps. The suspension system is the part that usually rests against your back and where the padded shoulders connect. Fixed system means that it fits to one torso size, whereas the adjustable system can be calibrated. The whole system is meant to help stabilize load and transfer weight to your hips. The load bearing straps, like the sternum strap, will also help move the weight around minimizing pain and discomfort.

Ventilation

To minimize the discomfort from an annoying sweaty back, get a backpack with ventilation. Most internal-frame packs will have some sort of ventilation system or design feature that promotes airflow, creating a permanent breathable layer between yourself and the backpack. Although not essential for load support, it certainly increases your comfort level.

Padded Full-size Hip belt

This is probably the most important feature of any backpack since your hips will be carrying 80% of your backpacks weight. The padding in the belt will help you avoid fatigue, discomfort, and of course load distribution. Make sure you get one that’s full-size, where the padding comes around your hip bone to the front, and isn’t just a thin strap with a clip.

Multiple Straps and Tool Attachment Points

This feature is a personal preference and doesn’t really impact comfort and load distribution but I do feel it’s just as important. I like the idea of having excess straps, clips and tool attachment points. You’re able to perform on-the-fly spot fixes for a variety of unexpected circumstances, making your backpack function more than just as a bag. You’re able to tie, hook, and rig a whole mess of things while on the road without having to carry additional gear. Some backpacks have begun to include “daisy chains” (typically found on climbing packs) which is a series of tool attachment loops.

Internal Hydration Reservoir

An internal compartment that holds your favorite hydration bladder (i.e. Camelpak, Platypus) so you have hands free access to H2O. Openings on the backpack will allow you access to the sip tube making it a very practical feature during your long treks. You won’t have to dig into your pack or stop your momentum looking for your water bottle.

What size backpack do I need

There’s no definitive rule for this question, as it completely depends on your own travel style, trip duration and weather. Generally, the colder the weather the greater the capacity needed; the greater the capacity the greater the overall weight. I try to pack light and bring only what fits in the backpack. So the best advice is to find a bag capacity you’re comfortable with, and pack in only what you absolutely need and what fits. I’ve provided a very broad guideline below:

Trip Length /Capacity in Liters (L)

Day Hikes 25-35L

1-3 Nights 35-50L

3-5 nights 50 to 75L

5+ nights 65+L

How to find the right fit

For the best comfort and proper load distribution you need to make sure your backpack fits correctly. Ideally, you should try it before you buy it, but that’s not always an option. To find the correct fit you’ll need to find your torso length, not your height, which is the distance, in inches, between your 7th cervical vertebra, and your iliac crest. In other words, from the base of the neck to the top of your hip bones. Once you have this measurement, use this guide:

Backpack Size /Torso Size in Inches

Extra small 15 ½

Small 16 to 17 ½

Medium/Regular 18 to 19 ½”

Large/Tall 20 +

As for your waist size, most backpacks have adjustable hip belts so finding your precise hip size is not as important as determining your torso length. Just make sure the belt sits on top of your hips, with about an inch above and below the belly button.

How much should I spend on a Hiking backpack

You’ll find backpacks ranging from under $100 to as high as $600. Unless you have an unlimited budget and want the latest model just because, it isn’t necessary to spend more than $300. With that being said, I would also stay away from anything under $150 as they will be lacking on essential features like a suspension system or a padded hip belt. Buying a backpack is an investment, and the last thing you want is for the seams to rip or a shoulder strap to tear off when you need it most. Just make sure your backpack has, at a minimum, the above features and fits comfortably.

The Best Backpack Brands

There are hundreds of great brands out there with an equally daunting number of styles and models. I’m not really the authority on which brand is better than the next. I can only tell you the brands I prefer and those whose quality I have confidence in. I’ve been using the same Osprey backpack since 2004, and my wife has been using a Gregory for nearly as long. I can honestly say, that after relentless airline abuse, backcountry trips, and overseas adventures, not a single strap, zipper or clip has ever needed replacement. Worth mentioning as well, Osprey and Gregory offer lifetime warranties on all their bags. You’ll probably never need it, but it’s great to know that the company stands behind their products.

Osprey

With 40 years experience manufacturing backpacks, and a lifetime warranty, Osprey exudes quality. They have one of the largest selections of styles and sizes for all sorts of adventuring, and their packs sport the latest backpacking technology. Osprey is my personal favorite and go to brand of choice; you really can’t go wrong with these guys.

Gregory

Like Osprey, these guys specialize in backpacks. My wife will attest to their quality and comfort. She has used her backpack for close to 10 years without a need to ever repair or replace. Gregory also stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty.

The North Face

Originating in San Francisco, The North Face has been developing adventure gear for over 40 years. I’ve never had the pleasure of using their backpacks, but with their pedigree and lifetime warranty, I would feel confidant carrying their packs any day of the week.

Arc’teryx

Along with having a really cool name, Arc’teryx pumps out some pretty awesome products. They are one of the more expensive brands out there, but if you’re willing to pay the price, you’ll most certainly get the quality

Deuter

A low to mid range brand, Deuter is a solid choice if you want function for a reasonable price. They’ve been in the backpacking game since 1968 and are very popular amongst Europeans.

Backpack Accessories

Rain Cover (separate or built in)

Most backpacks are water resistant but not waterproof, making them susceptible to persistent rain exposure. It’s a worthwhile addition if your backpack doesn’t already come with a built in rain cover. You needn’t get a fancy one or spend a lot of money, just make sure it fits your pack size. I use REI’s Ducks Back Rain Cover, and it works perfectly fine.

Airporter Bag

The last thing you want is to have your backpack damaged before you even start your trip. With all the straps, exposed shoulder, and hipbelt, it’s easy for something to get caught and tear right off. An Airporter bag will cover your entire backpack (think bag within a bag) and protect it during transport. As well, you can put a lock on the lockable zippers as an extra layer of theft deterrence. I have the Osprey Airporter LZ. I wish it was lighter (weighs about 1lb) but I suppose it’s worth it for the extra peace of mind.

Well, there you have it, my “how to buy an awesome hiking backpack” guide.

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Source by Carey Leo