Outdoor Blog

How to Build the Ultimate Backpack Repair Kit

Published

5 years ago

September 15, 2019

Backpackers spend a lot of time and money accumulating outdoor gear. To avoid pricey replacements, making simple repairs can make your equipment last much longer. It’s vital to carry a repair kit on any longer excursion, so if your gear fails in the middle of the backcountry, you’ll be able to repair and carry on instead of having to turn back.

Next time a buckle snaps, a seam leaks, or your clothes get ripped, you should be able to whip out your backpack repair kit and carry out a quick fix. Being adequately prepared for any eventuality will help prevent gear malfunctions from ruining an otherwise well thought out adventure.

It can be confusing to figure out the items you need to carry in a repair kit. With so many hiking and camping gadgets all marketing themselves as must-haves, putting together the right kit without over-packing can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a full guide of what you need in your backpack repair kit.

Having a backpack repair kit with you while hiking will ensure that if something happens to your bag, it can be mended.

Why carry a backpack repair kit?

Our outdoor equipment takes quite a beating on the trails, and although it’s made to last, sometimes you’ll find yourself with a broken piece of vital equipment in the field. Whether its due to extended use, general wear and tear, or human error, even the most durable of backpacking gear can break down. Clothing and equipment will break, tear, or just wear out, and you need to know how to make quick repairs in the field.

When it comes time to set off, we think we have everything we need and are fully prepared. However, have you ever thought about what you’d do if your clothing tore midway through a 5-day hike? Or worse, your backpack? And how about broken trekking poles, leaky tents, and cracked water bottles? All of these problems can cut your trip short if you’re not equipped to solve them.

Some equipment breakages can be expected, for example, sustained mileage will eventually wear out the tips of trekking poles. However, sometimes the unexpected happens, perhaps your new shoes start falling apart after only a few miles. Your field repair kit should at the very least keep you going until you can find replacement equipment, but it’s even better if you can restore your equipment to full function.

What to include in your backpack repair kit

Now, we’re going to cover some basic items which should have a place in everyone’s emergency kit, as well as extras you’ll need to consider depending on the type of excursion you plan to undertake.

A multi-tool pocket knife cutting through a tree limb.

Having a multi-tool knife is an essential tool for repairing your backpack.

1. Multi-tool

A good multi-tool can save you countless times on the trails. While they’re bulkier and heavier than your standard pocket knife, a multi-tool certainly makes up for its weight in functionality. Whether you’re cutting rope or food, the knife is always useful on the trails.

Screwdrivers can be used to adjust trekking poles, the pliers have multiple uses such as pinching together broken zippers. Scissors are an absolute must, for cutting bandages or patches for other repairs. Multi-tools are available with just a few simple tools or as a fully equipped toolbox, so you can decide how elaborate you want yours to be.

Multi-tools were popularised with the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife at the time of World War One, but since then they’ve become much more advanced. Read our buying guide for the best camping multi-tool to help you make the right choice.

2. Duct tape

Every camper or backpacker can tell you that at some point, they owed their life to duct tape. This wonderful invention can be used for so many things and is a vital part of your backpack repair kit. Duct tape can be used as an emergency patch on clothing or equipment, it can help your falling-apart boots make it a few more miles.

If you feel your shoes rubbing, a piece of duct tape on your heel will prevent blisters- duct tape is a real backcountry miracle worker. Rather than carrying a whole roll, you can keep a length of duct tape wrapped around your trekking poles or your water bottle.

Alternatively, miniature duct tape cylinders like these from SOL won’t take up much space in your bag. However you choose to carry it, duct tape is worth its weight without a doubt, so always make sure you have it on you.

3. Paracord

There are endless uses for this strong and durable cord, it’s a really valuable thing to carry. Snapped boot laces can make it impossible to continue with your hike, but paracord can easily solve this problem. Emergency straps for bags and guy lines can be made easily, as well as countless other things.

With so many uses, it would be silly not to include this essential survival gear in your backpack repair kit. Carry a lighter to melt frayed ends, and you’re good to go. One way to carry some parachute cord in an unobtrusive way is in the form of a paracord bracelet.

This survival accessory is becoming more and more popular, as the paracord is efficiently stored on your wrist, ready for whenever you may need it. To see some of the best available, check out our buying guide for paracord survival bracelets.

4. Zip ties

Zip ties promise not to take up much space or add too much weight to your pack, and you’d be surprised how useful this common household item can be in the backcountry. They’re perfect for fixing backpack straps, and they can form a quick replacement for broken snowshoe clips.

Zip ties also make a perfect zipper pull and make lots of other fiddly repairs much easier. Include a few zip ties in your backpack repair kit, you won’t regret it.

From sewing supplies to extra buckles, there are several items you will need in order to build a proper backpack repair kit.

5. Spare buckles

Almost every piece of backcountry equipment and apparel features buckles. These plastic fasteners take a lot of strain, and they’re also vital to a safe and comfortable trip. For example, a backpacker’s hipbelt buckle can mean the difference between a successful hike and a week of back pain.

Whether you step on your buckle, or it just gives up after years of hard use, having these spare parts on you will mean a quick stop to make a replacement, and then carrying onwards down the trail happily.

Without, you risk a painful and inconvenient hike, or just having to turn back towards home and give up your hike altogether. It’s very helpful to have a few spare buckles of different sizes in your backpack repair kit, just in case.

6. Tent pole sleeves

Most backpacking tents include a tent hole sleeve in their package. This short tube is often overlooked, but can really help you out in a pinch. If one of your tent poles breaks, bends, or splits in the field, it can leave you without a safe shelter for the night.

However, if you have a tent pole sleeve, all you have to do is slide it over the break and duct tape in place. This will keep you tent usable so that you can finish your trip, without having to worry about where you’ll sleep.

7. Needle and thread

Duct tape and glue will get you far, but sometimes a good old-fashioned needle and thread are necessary. Mostly useful for clothing repair, a needle and thread are a big help when you lose buttons or tear seams. If you bust your sleeping bag, you’ll need to sew up the hole fast to keep you from losing insulation. Keep a sewing kit in your backpack repair kit for next time you need to do some last-minute backcountry sewing.

8. Stove repair kit

If you’re using a camping or backpacking stove, and especially if you’re relying on it as your main source of food, a stove repair kit is a necessary part of your emergency supplies. Keeping a few tools and spare parts will make sure your stove is always up and running.

One potential problem is a deteriorated O-ring, which could leave your stove unusable and lead to some grumpy campers when there’s no coffee in the morning. However, if you have the spare part and necessary tool, you’ll be able to make a quick repair at no cost to your time or pride.

9. Adhesive patches

These serve pretty much the same purpose as duct tape, but in a more convenient manner. To quickly stop an air leak in your inflatable mattress or close a hole in your jacket, adhesive repair patches are an ideal solution.

10. Seam sealer

So much outdoor equipment depends on the sealant of seams; clothing, tents, tarps, and backpacks. If a seam on one of your belongings tears, leaks, or outright breaks, it could leave you in a world of trouble. A good seam sealer always has its place in any hikers backpack repair kit, to ensure no further leakage occurs.

Try to get a seam sealer that works with all the fabrics you might need it for, including nylon, rubber, PVC, vinyl, and leather- whatever you might need to repair.

Once you’ve built your ultimate backpack repair kit, it’s time to hit the trail.

How to repair a backpack

If you’re carrying a backpack repair kit, you should have the necessary materials to get you through almost any equipment emergency. However, you might not have the know-how. A broken backpack is one of the most serious and fatal problems a thru-hiker or backpacker can face, so you need to know how to fix it.

Holes in the fabric, non-functional zips, and broken buckles can render your backpack all but useless. Making small repairs as soon as the problem occurs could save you from facing bigger catastrophes later on, so check out our tips for repairing your backpack while in the field.

For rips, tears, and holes in the fabric of your backpack, duct tape can be a quick temporary solution. To make a repair using duct tape, follow these steps:

1. Clean the area which needs repairing, inside and out. This will help the tape to adhere better, reducing the chance of further problems.

2. Cut the tape to at least 1 inch larger than the size of the repair. This will ensure full coverage and a good grip.

3. If you have your scissors-featuring multitool, cutting duct tape into a circle is very helpful. This will reduce the likelihood of the tape catching on things by removing the vulnerable corners, making it less likely to peel off and require further repairs.

4. Stuff the inside of your pack, so your work area isn’t flapping around. This will also help you check that your repair is sufficient so that it doesn’t break again upon first use.

5. Apply your piece of duct tape to the tear or hole on the outside of your pack. Ensure it’s securely stuck down, and that there are no gaps where it could re-open.

6. Remove the contents of your pack carefully, in case they have stuck to the duct tape in any small part.

7. Use a second piece of tape to repeat the repair from inside the bag. This will reinforce this weakened point and help the fix to last longer.

If you develop a hole in a mesh part of your bag, duct tape isn’t the ideal fix. For these issues, you’ll have to break out your needle and thread, or alternatively, fishing wire and dental floss can also serve as cord.

1. Close the mesh in a few stitches, pulling it together to the correct place.

2. Then, sew in multiple directions to try and re-create the grid of mesh which was already in place.

Broken zips can be a huge pain, which is why lots of backpacks avoid them altogether due to their vulnerability. However, many pieces of outdoor gear feature zip, so it’s useful to know how to repair them- you’ll never know when you’ll need it! For a distorted zip, one which moves but won’t actually close your pack, the pliers on your multi-tool will come in very handy.

1. Open the zip as far as possible.

2. Take your pliers and gently squeeze the top and bottom of the slider part together. This should bring the slider into better contact with the zip, and easily solve your problem.

Another common problem with zips is bent teeth, something which can happen all too easily in the backcountry. This might be slightly harder to do with a multi-tool as ideally, you would use more precise pliers, although if your multi-tool includes sturdy enough tweezers you could try with those.

1. Take your pliers and very carefully bend the teeth back into shape.

2. Do not use too much force, be as gentle as possible, as zipper teeth can easily snap off, which to repair in the field is impossible.

For jammed zippers, a little lubrication will work wonders. If you have nothing else, try rubbing on a bit of your lip balm.

As we’ve mentioned, your backpack repair kit absolutely must include spare buckles. Repairing a broken buckle out in the field isn’t easy, but if you don’t have the replacement parts then you’ll fail before you even begin.

If a buckle breaks in an important place, such as the hip or chest, then as a last resort you can replace it with another buckle on your gear. Look for buckles in less critical places, such as the side or back of your bag, and maybe you can fashion one of these into a replacement for your hipbelt.

1. Remove the buckle that needs replacing. It’s already broken, so you can get it off any way you wish, pliers may make it easier.

2. Take your replacement buckle and locate the middle bar, the one that holds the buckle to the webbing on your bag. Use a lighter to soften the plastic slightly, and slice through the middle bar with your knife.

3. Use this cut to push the buckle onto the webbing where it’s needed.

4. Use some duct tape to reinforce the bar where you cut it, and you’re finished.

A broken shoulder or hip strap is perhaps the worst injury your backpack could sustain. If you have your repair kit through, a little sewing can fix it right up and get you on your way.

1. Empty your bag of all belongings.

2. Cut away the protective tape around the seam, to expose the opening of the strap.

3. Feed the trap through this opening, it should lay flat between the pack’s side seams.

4. Sew three parallel lines of backstitching, as strongly as possible, between the side seams.

Our Winner:

[amazon table=”13784″]

If there was one product we would recommend for your backpack repair kit, it’s Gear Aid Tenacious Tape Patches. This is ultra-strong repair tape with a highly effective adhesive and can be used to fix any holes, rips, tears, and gashes in your outdoor gear. These patches will stick to almost any surface, so they’re so valuable to carry.

One reason we’d recommend Gear Aid Tenacious Tape is its abrasion resistance. Backpacking gear goes through a lot, so this extra protection on repaired areas can make a difference when putting up with high wear.

Starting from less than $3, these tape patches are available in all different forms. They’re weather-resistant, and as a huge bonus are washable, meaning repairs using this tape can last for trips to come.

At the end of the day, a hiker with a well-maintained backpack is a happy hiker.

Final Verdict:

Carrying a backpack repair kit is important for any outdoor traveler, as you’ll never know when emergency repairs will need to be made. A fully equipped kit will save your skin many times out in the backcountry, and over time you’ll cultivate your own methods and must-have repair items. For now, we recommend you carry duct tape, a good multi-tool, some paracord and a sewing kit at a minimum. Buckles and zip ties also make very valuable additions. Now you’re prepared for any eventuality, so we wish you good luck on your next excursion!

Bonus tip: Check out the video below on how to fix a jammed zipper!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter