— backpacker , n.
/bak"pak'/ , n.
1. a pack or knapsack, often of canvas or nylon, to be carried on one's back, sometimes supported on a lightweight metal frame strapped to the body.
2. a piece of equipment designed to be used while being carried on the back.
v.i.
3. to go on a hike, using a backpack: We went backpacking in the Adirondacks.
v.t.
4. to place or carry in a backpack or on one's back.
[ 1910-15, Amer.; BACK 1 + PACK 1 ]