Backpacking may seem intimidating for beginners due to activities like sleeping outdoors, encountering wild animals, carrying all your gear, and using the outdoors as a restroom. However, like many other skills, backpacking and wilderness camping improve with practice. It is essential to remember that everyone starts their backpacking journey from somewhere.
This guide provides all the necessary information for embarking on your initial backpacking journey. It includes the process of conducting research, preparing in advance, and selecting appropriate equipment. If you are already an experienced camper, you might discover valuable tips for your future expeditions.
Guide to Backpacking
RESEARCH AND PLAN YOUR HIKING TRIP
Before embarking on your first backpacking trip, it is crucial that you conduct thorough research and carefully plan your journey. Taking into account the following factors will significantly contribute to your confidence, safety, and enthusiasm for the adventure ahead.
WHERE ARE YOU LEGALLY ALLOWED TO CAMP?
It is not possible to set up a tent anywhere and every backpacking trip must be planned in advance. I usually use a Google search or speak to a local ranger for information. When considering overnight backpacking trips or longer treks, I usually consult a park’s website or contact the local ranger office to inquire about authorized camping areas in a specific region. It is also important to take note of any necessary permits and reservations, especially for national parks. This practice is increasingly common due to the growing popularity of certain trails and national parks.
DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOU ARE GOING?
Before leaving home, it is important to thoroughly research the route you will be taking. Make sure you know the exact location of your destination, where you will be camping, and where you can find sources of water along the way. I suggest carrying a physical topographic map along with a compass, as well as downloading offline maps on your phone. Additionally, consider having a GPS navigation device that can also be used for emergencies, such as the Garmin InReach Mini. When planning your hike, take into account factors like elevation gain, distance to your destination, and the weather forecast. Remember that carrying a heavier backpack will likely result in a slower pace. For your first trip, it is advisable to start with a relatively short distance.
WHO ARE YOU GOING WITH?
For your initial backpacking adventure, it is advisable to have a companion who is more knowledgeable. Although embarking on solo journeys is perfectly acceptable (and favored by numerous individuals), it is imperative to have a clear understanding of the task at hand before venturing alone. There are several approaches to locating fellow hikers who share similar interests, such as joining Facebook and Meetup groups or arranging guided trips with nearby gear stores and outfitters.
WHAT ARE YOU PACKING?
While it is not necessary to have all the items listed, it is vital to possess the essentials for survival. These essentials, commonly referred to as the “10 Essentials”, consist of navigation, insulation, nutrition, hydration, shelter, fire-starting tools, illumination, first-aid supplies, repair kit, and sun protection.
HAVE YOU TOLD SOMEONE YOUR PLANS?
In order to ensure safety, it is crucial to inform a friend or family member about your hiking/camping destination. Additionally, certain individuals place an itinerary beneath their driver’s seat at the trailhead as a precautionary measure, particularly if a ranger observes their vehicle parked for an extended duration.
Backpacking Tips
LIGHTENING YOUR LOAD
To begin, eliminate unnecessary items. Be cautious when making choices, as even small amounts of weight can accumulate. Utilize a lightweight backpacking checklist, such as the one provided, to concentrate on essential items. Then, give priority to reducing the weight of your heaviest gear: shelter, backpack, and sleeping bag. Swapping out these traditional heavy items with lightweight alternatives will offer the greatest opportunity for weight reduction, particularly for beginners. By investing in a lightweight shelter, backpack, and sleeping bag, it is possible to easily eliminate 10 or more pounds, moving towards an ultralight backpacking arrangement.
CLOTHING FOR BACKPACKING
When packing clothing for different trips, slight variations may occur depending on the expected conditions. However, the basics remain unchanged. It is advisable to select garments made from quick-drying fabrics that can efficiently draw moisture away from the skin. This helps in regulating body temperature and ensures comfort in both hot and cold environments. Suitable fabric options include nylon, polyester, wool, bamboo, silk, and synthetic blends. Cotton should be avoided as it tends to absorb moisture and takes a significant amount of time to dry, leading to potential issues like blisters and chafing. It is recommended to choose items that can be layered together. Fleece and goose-down materials offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio and serve as ideal insulation choices for backpackers. For rain protection, opt for lightweight, breathable, and waterproof gear.
BACKPACKING FOOD
To ensure a successful backpacking trip, it is crucial to prioritize quality sustenance. Therefore, it is advisable to dedicate effort towards devising a straightforward meal plan beforehand. The ability to minimize food weight is a key skill that is typically honed through experience in backpacking. Our Guide to Lightweight Backpacking Food serves as an excellent starting point. Seasoned backpackers usually favor easily prepared, lightweight foods that are rich in calories. While packaged freeze-dried meals and snacks can be advantageous, it is important to note that they often contain excessive amounts of sodium and sugar, which can have adverse effects if consumed excessively.
We typically utilize a combination of both methods, which involves preparing our own backpacking meals using a food dehydrator to dry meats, fruits, veggies, and sauces. Additionally, we incorporate spices and quick-cooking or easily rehydrated dried goods such as pasta, couscous, instant potatoes, instant refried beans, and minute rice to create personalized, highly-nutritious meals. While this approach requires more time, effort, and a willingness to carry additional weight, it is both cost-effective and promotes better health for longer trips.
Summary
For your first backpacking trip, I understand that there may be numerous concerns. However, I hope that these tips will assist you in feeling more prepared and confident when exploring the wilderness. It is enjoyable to engage in activities outside of your comfort zone, and it is even more satisfying to witness a beautiful sunrise in the mountains. Personally, I derive immense pleasure from the self-sufficiency of carrying all essential items on my back and being completely disconnected from civilization. Please ensure your safety and have an amazing time!
