I use rain chaps that pull on over boots to complete my rainwear outfit.

Others, may use a poncho and long gaiters.

Still others, wear a rain jacket and rain pants.

There are still others, who wear a poncho tarp that does double duty as their shelter.

The combination you adopt should suit you.

This pack review very nicely demonstrates how this man evaluates a pack.

I hope this gives you ideas for how to evaluate the pack you purchase.

REI Lookout Backpack Review (Part 1of3)

REI Lookout Backpack Review (Part 2of3)

REI Lookout Backpack Review (Part 3of3)

Did you notice the s-curve of the overall shape of the pack shoulder straps?

This is a design for comfort, unless you have considerable muscle or, your own ample padding on broad shoulders.

And here is a demonstation of how to pack.

How to Pack a Rucksack

The rucksack is a soft backpack.

In general, up to a 40-liter volume pack is right for lightweight backpacking.

My assumptions is, of course, you will be no more out than four nights.

Most people are not able to carry food for more than four nights, without using special equipment on snow, for example, like the pulk sled.

If you are backpacking in more severe conditions of winter, you will need to have all lightweight and ultralightweight gear to be able to achieve higher volume insulation. In that case, the 55-liter backpack can be more suitable.

I have also selected Backpacking Food Videos about how to pack the food you need.