How to Pack Your Ruck Sack Like a Pro | US Army Soldier Skills

Summary

In this instructional video, the speaker shares essential tips on properly packing a rucksack for military use, emphasizing the importance of organization and weight distribution. Starting with waterproofing the bag, the tutorial progresses through layering items from light to heavy, ensuring easy access to frequently used gear. The speaker also discusses the strategic placement of items for quick retrieval and comfort during marches, concluding with advice on adjusting rucksack straps for a personalized fit and optimal load-bearing.

Takeaways

• 📦 Line your ruck sack with a heavy-duty trash bag to make it waterproof.
• 🔺 Pack the heaviest items first, ensuring they are at the bottom of the ruck sack for better weight distribution.
• 🛌 Place items you won't need often, like a sleeping bag, at the bottom of the ruck for padding and easy access when needed.
• 👢 Pack spare boots along the sides of the ruck for easy access and to maximize space.
• 👕 Keep extra clothes, like uniforms and socks, in a wet weather bag turned inside out for easier access and packed in the middle for balance.
• 🌧 Include wet weather gear at the top of the ruck for an extra layer of waterproofing, unless easily accessible use is anticipated.
• 🛡 The patrol cap and poncho should be at the top of the ruck for quick access and additional comfort or protection.
• 🔫 When packing gear like a helmet or tactical gear, keep it in the center for weight distribution and upside down to prevent water absorption.
• ⚖️ Maintain equal weight distribution, especially with heavy items, to prevent discomfort and potential injury during rucking.
• 🗂 Use ziplock bags for small items that need waterproofing and for organization within the ruck.
• 📐 Adjust shoulder and waist straps according to individual comfort and needs, ensuring they support the weight of the ruck effectively.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is how to properly pack a ruck sack, which is a fundamental skill for soldiers.

Why is it important to pack a ruck sack properly according to the script?

Properly packing a ruck sack is important because it can save a lot of pain, trouble, and make one a better Ruck marcher by ensuring the load is distributed efficiently.

What is the first tip given in the script for packing a ruck sack?

The first tip given is to line the ruck sack with an industrial garbage bag to make it waterproof.

What items are suggested to be packed at the bottom of the ruck sack and why?

Items that are not immediately needed and are light, such as a sleeping bag, should be packed at the bottom of the ruck sack to provide padding and allow for easy access to heavier items.

What is the purpose of not using the stuff sack for the sleeping bag as mentioned in the script?

Not using the stuff sack for the sleeping bag simplifies access to the different shells and makes it easier to pack and unpack in the field.

How should spare boots be packed in the ruck according to the script?

Spare boots should be packed along the sides of the ruck sack, filled in as tightly and deeply as possible to maximize space utilization.

What is the recommended packing order for items inside the ruck sack?

The recommended packing order is light items at the bottom, medium weight items in the middle, and heavy items at the top.

Why should the wet weather gear be packed towards the middle of the ruck sack?

The wet weather gear should be packed towards the middle to provide an extra layer of waterproofing for the clothes and items packed below it.

What is the best practice for packing the patrol cap and poncho on top of the ruck sack?

The patrol cap should be easily accessible at the very top, and the poncho should be laid across the entire top and stuffed down the sides for an extra layer of waterproofing.

What is the importance of keeping the ruck sack straps tucked away and not flapping during a patrol?

Keeping the ruck sack straps tucked away prevents them from getting caught on trees, vines, and thorns, reduces noise during patrol, and maintains a professional appearance.

Why is it recommended to use Ziploc bags for items that need to be waterproofed or organized?

Ziploc bags are lightweight, easy to use, and provide a simple way to waterproof items or keep small items organized without adding bulk or extra weight.

What is the correct placement for the shoulder straps and waist strap on a ruck sack?

The shoulder straps should be at the top of the ruck sack to help carry heavy loads, and the waist strap should be worn above the hips, around the actual waist, to aid in weight distribution.