Watch your back: Backpack tips if you're hitting the trails

SPOKANE, Wash. -- One of the best parts of living in the Inland Northwest is being able to pack up a backpack and explore the outdoors, but you don't want the backpack to become a pain.

A local doctor is offering some tips on how you can avoid the back troubles while getting fresh air.

Dr. Christopher Melich of Multicare says one common issue with backpack pain is people buying the wrong size for themselves.

"If you are going on a long trip and things aren't packed properly, it will definitely ruin your trip. You may not have a great time, that's for sure," says Dr. Melich.

Dr. Melich says backpacks are size-based for your torse not your overall height. One way to tell if it fits properly is having no gaps between you and the bag. Plus, most of the weight should be felt in your hips rather than shoulders.

Reminder: These tips apply to school backpacks too!

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