Layer up your bag. The order in which you place things in your bag is very important: put the things you use the least near the bottom, and keep the heaviest things in the center of the bag. For example, put your sleeping bag or clothing at the bottom of your bag since they are light and you won’t need them right away. Your tent, food, and water are typically the heaviest, and should be kept in the middle of the bag near your back to maintain your center of gravity. Surround these heavy objects with other soft or light items to increase your comfort.
Any fragile items (like a camera) should be placed in the center of your bag and surrounded by other smaller, lighter, and softer items. You can choose to wrap them in clothing as well.
Things that you need easy access to (such as snacks or a jacket) should be placed on the very top of all your things.
Stiff items such as tent poles or water bottles can be slipped into side pockets and under the compression straps on the outside of your bag.