More and more people are hitting the trails these days and seeing things the old fashioned way, backpacking. If you are new to the sport/hobby, there are some things that you will want to know about backpacking before you start up the trail. It all starts with making sure that you have your pack loaded up with all the essentials.
While there are lots of things that need to go into your pack, some things are a little more important than others. The first of these are a map and compass. Make sure you get your hands on a map that is easy to read and provides great detail of the terrain you are going to cover. You will also need a compass for directional guidance. Dont skimp on the compass either because if you get turned in the wrong direction, it is the only thing that will get you home.
You are also going to want to have a first aid kit and some basic knowledge on how to apply first aid. Both your local drugstore and outdoors stores will have kits that will be perfect. You can usually pack them away pretty easily and they will be barely noticeable in your pack.
Extra clothing is something else to put in your pack. You are going to need this for three different purposes. If weather turns bad, you will need the extra layers. You will also be able to use it at night to create some extra warmth while you are sleeping. Finally, you never know what is going to happen on the trail and if you get covered in mud or something worse, you can at least get out of the wet clothing and put something fresh on while you clean and allow the other set to dry.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are more items that you want to make sure you have. If you are going to be on the trails all day, you need to protect both your eyes and skin regardless of what time of year it is. The sun doesnt care if it is summer or winter, it can still cause damage. Protect yourself and play it safe.
Food and water will obviously be packed, but when you think you have enough, put a little more in there. You can also put some energy bars and quick snacks that you can get a hold of quick when you start to run low on energy. If you really want to play it safe, get a water hydration system that you can wear so you always have water at the ready.
When you settle down for the night, you will need something to start a fire so you can heat up water, cook your food and stay warm at night. You can get firestarter that will allow you to start a fire quickly. Outdoor stores will sell this, but you can also make it yourself from things like candle wicks and dryer lint. You should also pack waterproof matches. Keep both items in a sealed waterproof container to make sure they stay dry. If you have a foodsaver, you may want to pack them up individually so you will still have sealed items if you need to use some.
Learning about backpacking is more than just putting a pack on your shoulders and hitting the trails. There is as much to learn about what to take as there is on how to handle yourself on the trails. Take the time to really learn about backpacking and make sure that you trip is both enjoyable and safe.
While there are lots of things that need to go into your pack, some things are a little more important than others. The first of these are a map and compass. Make sure you get your hands on a map that is easy to read and provides great detail of the terrain you are going to cover. You will also need a compass for directional guidance. Dont skimp on the compass either because if you get turned in the wrong direction, it is the only thing that will get you home.
You are also going to want to have a first aid kit and some basic knowledge on how to apply first aid. Both your local drugstore and outdoors stores will have kits that will be perfect. You can usually pack them away pretty easily and they will be barely noticeable in your pack.
Extra clothing is something else to put in your pack. You are going to need this for three different purposes. If weather turns bad, you will need the extra layers. You will also be able to use it at night to create some extra warmth while you are sleeping. Finally, you never know what is going to happen on the trail and if you get covered in mud or something worse, you can at least get out of the wet clothing and put something fresh on while you clean and allow the other set to dry.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are more items that you want to make sure you have. If you are going to be on the trails all day, you need to protect both your eyes and skin regardless of what time of year it is. The sun doesnt care if it is summer or winter, it can still cause damage. Protect yourself and play it safe.
Food and water will obviously be packed, but when you think you have enough, put a little more in there. You can also put some energy bars and quick snacks that you can get a hold of quick when you start to run low on energy. If you really want to play it safe, get a water hydration system that you can wear so you always have water at the ready.
When you settle down for the night, you will need something to start a fire so you can heat up water, cook your food and stay warm at night. You can get firestarter that will allow you to start a fire quickly. Outdoor stores will sell this, but you can also make it yourself from things like candle wicks and dryer lint. You should also pack waterproof matches. Keep both items in a sealed waterproof container to make sure they stay dry. If you have a foodsaver, you may want to pack them up individually so you will still have sealed items if you need to use some.
Learning about backpacking is more than just putting a pack on your shoulders and hitting the trails. There is as much to learn about what to take as there is on how to handle yourself on the trails. Take the time to really learn about backpacking and make sure that you trip is both enjoyable and safe.
About the Author:
If you enjoy backpacking, you should check out Rics site on backpacking. The site features the latest information on backpacking destinations, safety and much more.
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