Whether you’re a beginner in outdoor activities or have been camping with basic equipment, such as fold-up chairs, a heavy eight-person tent, and a long-standing family sleeping bag, you’ve likely seen stunning alpine lakes, beautiful meadows, and expansive alpine views on social media. While browsing through Outdoor Project, you may have come across numerous thrilling adventures, but many of these scenic locations are located far away from any parking lots, paved roads, or campgrounds. If you yearn to explore these remote places and spend nights under the stars, you’ve come to the right place. This introduction to backpacking essentials aims to help you embark on a multi-day trip and ignite a passion for a new outdoor addiction and lifestyle!
Although hiking for beginners can seem daunting, it is actually quite simple. No special skills are required; all you need is the ability to walk and navigate your surroundings. Hiking is a wonderful way to connect with nature, exercise, and rejuvenate. To ensure your hike is both enjoyable and safe, this guide provides essential tips specifically designed for beginners.
Leave No Trace
In essence, it means to have respect for the hike and other hikers, regardless of your actions or inactions.
- Don’t litter or throw fruit peels.
- Don’t leave the official trail.
- Don’t disturb the environment around you (breaking branches, etc.).
- Be considerate of other hikers (no loud music, etc.)
There is currently a renewed interest in the outdoors, which is positive, but there are also negative aspects to consider. It is important to be advocates for the outdoors and take responsibility for preserving nature. If we all use the trails in a responsible manner and vote for officials who prioritize the outdoors, it will result in increased funding for parks and trails. This, in turn, will offer more hiking opportunities for everyone. Conversely, if we continue to litter and leave waste on the trail, there is a risk of trail closures.
Pick A Hike for Beginners
The main error made by beginners is pushing themselves too hard. They choose a hike that is either too lengthy or involves excessive climbing. For those who are new to hiking, it is advisable to opt for a hike that is less than 5 miles in distance and has minimal climbing. If you aspire to tackle a longer hike, it would be wise to create a training schedule in advance. Gradually increase your mileage by an additional mile or two each week, gradually working up to your desired distance.
Make sure to consider the overall elevation gain on your hike. Walking 5 miles on a level surface is not the same as ascending 5 miles uphill.
Before embarking on the hike, it is advisable to become acquainted with it. This can be achieved by reading the trail guide and familiarizing oneself with the anticipated details such as the route, the locations of turns, and the estimated duration. It is not necessary to commit everything to memory, but having a general understanding of what to anticipate is beneficial.
Pick Hiking Gear For Beginners
One of the benefits of starting hiking is that there is no requirement for specialized gear, as you can likely make do with what you already own.
Beginners often make the mistake of wearing jeans and regular attire, which can become heavy and cause chafing when they become sweaty or wet. It is advisable to wear workout clothes that are designed for physical activity, as they have moisture-wicking properties. To prevent your legs from getting scratched by bushes on the trail, it is recommended to wear long pants or tights. Similarly, long sleeve shirts offer protection from the elements, but you can roll up the sleeves when it gets hot.
In the scheme of things, shoes hold significance as well. Opting for a reliable pair of sneakers or trail runners is generally the smartest choice. It might be wiser to not bring along any old hiking boots from your wardrobe, especially if they haven’t been worn in a long time, as they have the potential to cause blisters.
Understand Your Map
In order to fully enjoy your hike, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your current location and the direction you are heading. Beginners to hiking can benefit from using a combination of electronic navigation and traditional paper methods.
Begin by making a hard copy of the hiking guide and map. In the event of rain, ensure that they are stored in a Zip-Lock bag. Familiarize yourself with the guide by thoroughly reading it, and carefully analyze the map to gain a clear understanding of what lies ahead. It is advantageous to be knowledgeable about the next prominent point on the trail as you embark on your hike. For instance, after reviewing the guide, you will be aware that approximately one mile later, you will need to make a right turn at the junction. Retaining this information mentally allows you to remain alert and anticipate your subsequent actions.
I also upload a GPX file onto a GPS device, which utilizes satellites to accurately determine your location. Fortunately, nowadays, the majority of smartphones come equipped with built-in GPS functionality. However, the drawback is that smartphones are prone to being dropped, shattered, or exposed to water, making them unreliable. Nevertheless, it is beneficial to have them as a backup.
Backpacking Gear
Emergency Gear
Emergency gear is an item that one would rather not have to use, but it is crucial not to be caught without it in case of an emergency. The majority of expeditions often take place in remote areas far from civilization, lacking cellphone signal and assistance. It is highly important to consider these suggestions seriously and also consider the additional weight they will contribute to your belongings.
- First Aid Kit (with Ibuprofen/Tylenol)
- Compass (keep the instructions in your bag if you don’t know how to use one)
- Map of the area in which you will be backpacking
- Iodine tablets for water filtration (If you have no water filter and run out of stove fuel)
- Waterproof matches
- Nice pocket knife
- Extra batteries for headlamps
- Rain poncho (if you have no rain gear with you; mountain weather can change in a matter of minutes)
Non-cotton Clothing
Regardless of whether you choose wool or synthetic materials for your base layer clothing, the key is to avoid cotton. This is crucial due to several reasons. Cotton can potentially cause chafing and blisters, or even contribute to a life-threatening situation. You may wonder why this is so. Cotton does not dry quickly and does not effectively wick away sweat or provide insulation when wet. Consequently, this can result in blisters and skin irritation on areas subjected to friction, and it can also lead to hypothermia if conditions become cold and wet. Synthetics are excellent at wicking away sweat and drying rapidly, which is why I prefer them as my base layer for activities such as hiking and summer climbing. Wool base layers are also ideal for sweat-wicking, quick drying, and most importantly, maintaining proper body temperature regulation. Additionally, while synthetics tend to develop an unpleasant odor after heavy use, wool is notably less smelly. Both synthetics and wool, if necessary, will still provide insulation even when wet, which is crucial if you unexpectedly encounter a rainstorm.
Backpack
Now, let’s turn our attention to the equipment that will hold all of this gear. The first step is to select a size for the bag. A general guideline is to opt for a pack ranging from 50 to 70 liters for trips lasting one to four days. If you’re planning for longer trips, you might need a pack with a volume larger than 70 liters. This decision will also depend on the amount of gear and food you intend to carry. Additionally, there are various bag styles available, each equipped with different types of support systems.
Tent
When planning, consider the tent as an important aspect. Are you going alone? Then you might consider a bivy style shelter designed for one person that can accommodate you and your sleeping bag. If you are packing with someone else, once again, choose a tent that suits your requirements and backpacking preferences.
Sleeping Bag
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is advisable to select one that is designed for temperatures approximately 10 degrees colder than the expected conditions outside of your tent. For instance, if the lowest temperature at night is anticipated to be 40 degrees, you should aim for a bag that is rated for 30 degrees. Additionally, it is preferable to find a lightweight bag that provides adequate warmth and falls within your budget.
Pillow
There are a few choices available to ensure a comfortable sleep for your head. You can choose between pillows containing foam or goose down, although using them would require sacrificing space and weight. Another option is inflatable pillows which are extremely lightweight and can be packed into a coffee cup, although not all of them are as comfortable.
Water Storage and Filtration
To ensure you have the best quality, consider investing in a 2-liter water bladder system, as there are numerous brands and options available. It’s worth noting that the price you pay often reflects the product’s quality. Additionally, remember that your water filter plays a crucial role within your water bladder system.
