Backpacking is inexpensive and independent travel to a natural place. It’s an exciting and adventurous journey where different wild places are explored.
Why is it called backpacking? Because you pack everything you need in your backpack and carry it along with you wherever you go.
There are two categories of Backpackers: one who goes with a tour guide and the other who wants to explore everything by himself.
If you want to go with a guided group, follow all the instructions of the person who is doing this backpacking guide job carefully.
On the other hand, if you are going on this adventurous trip alone, the guide below will be beneficial.
Do It Yourself Backpacking
DIY backpacks are more adventurous and will teach you more than a guided one. If you are going on this trip for the first time, then you must first learn several things before you start.
You will find a lot of material on the internet or read a backpacking guide book. Moreover, you can ask any of your friends who have had an experience with backpacking. Or even you can do a miniature practical course in backpacking.
We have also tried to make a backpacking guide for beginners as easy as possible in this blog. Here are some simple instructions you must follow for backpacking.
Backpacking Destination
Research is fundamental when you are going on a backpacking trip. First, select a destination point—the area you want to reach finally. So consider the following things when choosing a place of destination.
- Are you legally allowed to camp at that place?
- Do you know that place?
- Have you seen the trail or road you are following?
Most people select a remote wild area for camping. But through the above questions, you will know the gears and gadgets you must carry. Moreover, try to check that place on Google Maps. It will tell you about the least elevation gain, and easier paths or roads to follow. Whether it is a mountainous area or a plain area.
Season of the Year
Time of the year dictates many things in backpacking. When you have selected the destination point, research from the weather forecast. Which time of the year is the best time to visit that place? For beginners, a moderate season is the best time. It varies with the place.
Prepare yourself for the average weather conditions at your destination. Carry all the essentials that will help you withstand the weather or temperature of that area.
Trail or Road
As for beginner backpackers, a trip of one or two nights will be the perfect option. You have to select the trail or roads or pathways which have low mileage.
If you know the destination point, go along the road you haven’t used before. But if the final place is new for you, then it is better to have a guide or ask someone to know about it in the shortest possible way.
On average, your road or trail must offer about 6 miles per day to hike. Because you must carry all the necessary accessories, it is enough for you in a day.
Essentials for Backpacking
A DIY backpacking trip will be expensive, as you must take all the necessary items. The backpacking checklist includes the following.
- Multi-day Backpack
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping Pad
- Tent
- Cook Set
- Trekking Poles
- Stuff Sacs
- First Aid kit
- Torch, Headlamp, and Extra Batteries
- Emergency Communication Device
- Biodegradable Soap and Toiletries ( Toilet paper )
- Clothes
- Hiking Boots
- Navigation Tools ( Map and Compass )
- Knife
- Bear Canister
Food for Backpacking
There are several options for fulfilling the food requirements for backpacking.
- Already prepared food
- Prepare food with fresh ingredients on the trail
- Take pre-made dehydrated meals from the gear store
Making food during the trial is very time-consuming, so pre-made dehydrated food will be the best option. You will find different delicious food options from the backpacking gear stores.
However, some people consider preparing their food during the trip an adventurous activity. But keep in mind that this will require a stove and utensils for cooking.
Water Resources (Water Filter or Purifier)
Water is really an essential factor to consider. Although it depends on where you want to go, it is necessary to have a proper source.
It won’t be easy to carry enough water during the trail. Therefore, think about the water sources you can avail of during your journey. If you go to a wild place, there will be several water resources, but filtration is necessary. In a backpacking gear store, you will find a variety of water filters.
- Ceramic Can Filter
- Lifestraw Peak Squeeze Bottle
- Gravity Filter System
- Aquamira
Choose one of these filters according to your affordability and need. Also, carry a one-liter water bottle to drink water during hiking.
Training For Backpacking Trip
Before you start your trip, you must be physically and mentally prepared for this journey. As you are going away from all the luxuries of life in a wild environment, maybe you can’t find an internet connection and face many other challenges.
As you have to climb mountains or walk a long distance, you must be in a decent physical condition. It is recommended to take proper training for hiking and climbing. However, for a similar experience, you can go for day hiking and carry the loaded packs for practice.
The other option is to go to the gym to strengthen your big muscles. Choose whatever option you like the most, but make sure that you take this training seriously.
Moreover, Backpack training includes many other skills to learn, including the following.
- Navigation Skills
- Bear and Wildlife Safety Skills
- Going to the Bathroom
- Backpacking Hygiene
Leave No Trace Behind
As the number of people who trail are increasing, the wild areas are getting polluted with garbage. This is actually damaging the beauty of the natural environment. Therefore, in the US, there are seven principles for lessening the impact of backpackers on natural life.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
The aim of these principles was actually to keep nature unchanged by our presence. So that the next generations can also enjoy the wilderness of natural places.
Conclusion
It is considered a healthy activity but requires a lot of guidance. If you don’t have proper skills, it can be a risky activity. In some areas in Europe, you will need a legal permit, or some places require transportation. So, fulfill all the conditions and don’t forget to plan.
As the spring season is the most beautiful time of the year, plan your trip in spring. Take all the items according to the weather conditions of that area.
If you plan according to the tips in the above blog post, you can enjoy backpacking to the fullest.
I hope this proves very helpful for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I Start Planning Backpacking?
Choose the place and time. Get all the essentials with you. And plan the whole trip and start the journey.
Is 50L Enough for Backpacking?
This depends on the total distance and time you will spend. But if you can carry 50 liters easily, it can fulfill the water needs.
Is 40 Too Old to Go Backpacking?
No, 40 is not too old to go backpacking.
What is a Good Length for a First Backpacking Trip?
For beginners or first backpacking trips, 5 – 7 miles are suitable.