The backcountry is truly unique with its wildness, tranquility, and peacefulness, making us prefer hike- and paddle-in campsites over any other. While car-camping can be enjoyable, it cannot compare to the authenticity of backcountry camping.
Before going on a backcountry trip, it is important to follow these steps in order: start by studying first-aid, camp cooking, and survival skills. After that, make sure to leave a detailed trip plan for someone to have. Additionally, ensure that you have the proper equipment and knowledge to use it effectively. Lastly, monitor the weather conditions and make note of the times of sunrise and sunset.
And keep these tips in mind for etiquette and safety:
Break in your hiking botos
Before you go out trekking in brand-new hiking shoes, make sure to break them in.
If you’ve never worn newly purchased hiking boots for an extended period, you may be unpleasantly surprised by their lack of comfort, despite their initial comfort.
If you have purchased lightweight hiking shoes and are planning to go on gentle hikes for short to medium distances, you should be fine. Just make sure to wear appropriate socks and carry blister plasters, as you might require them.
If you choose to hike with traditional leather hiking boots, it will be necessary to break them in. This may appear problematic for beginners in hiking, but be reassured that once your hiking boots are broken in, they will likely be the most comfortable shoes you own.
By breaking in your hiking boots, you will guarantee that the shoes conform and fit snugly to your feet, enabling the necessary level of flexibility to prevent the formation of painful blisters.
To properly break in your hiking boots, you should wear them extensively before embarking on your hiking trip. One option is to wear them around your home for a couple of days. The aim is to allow the boots to adjust to the shape of your feet. Rest assured, you will appreciate this effort when you are out hiking on different paths.
Always come prepared
The preparation for your hiking adventure will depend on the specific choice you make since each outdoor hiking experience is unique.
Whether you are preparing for a simple hike or seeking a more thrilling experience, make sure you possess all the necessary essentials to enhance your confidence and performance for a safer and more enjoyable adventure.
If you’re going on a long-distance hike, it is important to think step by step. One crucial consideration is to ensure that you have additional supplies packed in case your trip takes longer than expected. Another essential item to bring along is a toilet roll.
When considering the matter further, it should be noted that toilet rolls can be somewhat large in size. To address this matter, one can remove the cardboard roll and pack it in a flat manner. Alternatively, an alternative option is to bring along wet wipes, which are often cherished by campers.
Leave no trace
Experiencing natural beauty firsthand is one of the most captivating things we can encounter.
It is universally accepted among outdoor enthusiasts that leaving the places you visit in the same condition as you found them is a wise practice. While not necessarily a shortcut or clever solution, it is important to remember, especially for those who are new to hiking.
If you intend to make a few stops during your hike, such as for having lunch or taking a short break, it is important to allocate some extra space to carry your trash back with you, allowing you to dispose of it later.
Filters for the Win
Did you choose a campsite close to a water source? Of course you did. It could be a warm lake or a freezing alpine river that originates from a nearby glacier. You might not necessarily have to filter the latter, right? Perhaps. However, is there any harm in running it through a micro-ceramic filter? We strongly advise filtering any natural water sources as a good practice, even if it’s just to avoid accidentally drinking harmful organisms like giardia. You can purchase effective personal water filters for as low as $25 (such as Lifestraw), but for a reliable basecamp unit, it would be advisable to spend around $100 to $200.
No Fire Ring, No Fire
Even when you are in remote areas, it is important to always look for designated campsites if they are available. The presence of a fire ring is often a clear indicator of these sites. If you cannot find a fire ring, it means that fires are not allowed. This is part of the modern principle of Leave No Trace. As more people use our backcountry areas, it is no longer acceptable to start a fire wherever you find an open space. Use a designated fire ring or rely on your camp stove instead. Remember to always pay attention to any fire restrictions that may be in place.
Sanitary Matters
The majority of campers are afraid of contracting beaver fever, however, indications indicate that the main cause of illness is human contamination. When going camping, it is essential to bring soap, toilet paper, and alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It should be used before consuming any snacks or meals, as well as after each visit to the restroom, including for number one. An added benefit is that it can also be useful for starting a fire if necessary.
Stay on the Level
If you have had a negative experience in the past, you will be hesitant about taking risks in the future. With this particular situation, make sure to set up your tent on flat terrain. Many inexperienced campers tend to prioritize flat or elevated ground and overlook the fact that they may wake up with blood rushing to their head or even fall off their sleeping pad and wake up on the freezing ground. By taking the time to set up your tent on level ground, you will reap the benefits of having comfortable and uninterrupted sleep.
Don’t Get Depressed
It is important to avoid setting up your tent in a depression or low area. If you do, there is a possibility that water will collect under your sleeping area, resulting in you waking up wet. Moreover, in the worst scenario, a flash flood could occur, posing a dangerous threat to your campsite. Hence, it is always advisable to choose a higher spot for your tent to ensure staying dry.
What Lies Below? And Above?
You have discovered a flat camping area that includes a designated area for fires, water that is conveniently close by, and an impressive view of the sunset. It may seem like these are the only things that matter, but it is crucial to remember that you are currently traversing through ecologically sensitive regions in the wilderness. These campsites are not meticulously groomed and tidied up for you. It is important to be aware that you might unintentionally set up your camp on delicate moss or endangered flowers. So pay attention to the ground beneath you. Additionally, take a moment to observe your surroundings above. Are there any potentially dangerous elements? Perhaps a decaying tree that could topple during a storm? Or a precarious branch that may give way unexpectedly? What about a solitary tree located on high ground, essentially acting as a target for lightning strikes? Lastly, keep in mind the presence of a bird’s nest, serving as a constant source of waste production (although this is a less significant concern). These are all factors that must be considered before deciding on a suitable spot to pitch your tent.
