Backpacking can be a fun and challenging way to explore the outdoors. You can hike all day, camp at night, and spend a few days or weeks in the wilderness, but knowing what to pack to have the most efficient and lightweight pack possible can be difficult.
It can be easy to overpack and include items you never end up using that weigh your pack down throughout the trip. However, you want to be prepared and should make sure you pack all of the essentials.
Cooking equipment
When you are out on a backpacking trip, you will need to cook on the trail, and the easiest way to make a warm meal is by using a campfire. Your pack should include some campfire cooking equipment, such as a pot to heat food and water and utensils to eat with.
There are not always fire pits on a backpacking trail, so having a small portable stove is also a good idea. You should also probably pack a backpacking chair to sit in while you cook and eat. The chair can also be a great place to unwind at the end of a long day.
Food
When you go on a backpacking trip, you need to haul food and water with you. Depending on the length of your journey, you may need to pack food for the entire trip. Other times you can send resupply packages to different trail checkpoints in advance.
Most backpackers pack snacks to eat throughout the day, such as protein and granola bars, dried fruit, and trail mixes. They then use freeze-dried and instant food packs that they cook in the morning and at night.
You should always have a good supply of water for the day, and unless you are going to an area with accessible clean water, you may need to pack more. You should always include a water purification kit.
Always be prepared with a full day’s supply of water and food, extra than you anticipate needing, in case of an emergency.
Bedding
You will need to decide if you want to sleep in a tent or hammock at the end of the day. In most areas, it is recommended that you use a tent as it can better protect you from insects and weather. You will want to ensure you have stakes and a ground cover for your tent.
A sleeping bag and pad are necessary for a good night’s sleep. Make sure to get a lightweight sleeping bag that can keep you warm at night. You may also want a small extra blanket to stay warm during cold nights.
Many backpackers recommend earplugs and an eye mask for proper sleep. They are small and lightweight but may make the difference between being up all night due to animal noises and getting a full night’s sleep.
On a backpacking trip, you want to eliminate unessential camp accessories since you must carry everything with you throughout the day.
Clothes
You should have clothes for different weather conditions on a backpacking trip. You don’t want to overpack clothing, but always make sure you have a sturdy and warm rain jacket and waterproof pants in case of wet weather.
Prepare for colder weather by packing a warm hat and gloves. To best protect yourself from the sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses during the day as you hike.
You will want to make sure you have at least one extra pair of socks because wet socks can cause more blisters and make hiking more difficult and uncomfortable. Many people also recommend having a separate pair of socks and shoes to wear at camp.
Toiletries
You can sometimes overlook toiletries on a backpacking trip, but you should still remember to put on deodorant and brush your teeth in the morning, even when you are roughing it outdoors. Many hikers end up with sunburnt lips unless they regularly apply chapstick during their hike.
When you are backpacking, you also need to bring enough toilet paper to last you through the trip since you will need to use the bathroom on the trail. You should also have a small shovel for digging holes to relieve yourself. For women, it is critical to remember menstrual products.
Safety supplies
Backpacking can be dangerous, so you should be prepared for danger and stay safe. Bring a loud whistle that you can blow if you are in trouble, and have navigation equipment such as maps and a compass in case you get off the trail.
You should also be prepared for injury and pack a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
Parting shot
Make sure you have packed all the essentials and are prepared before taking off on a backpacking expedition. You want to have as light of a pack as possible, but make sure you have everything to make the trip safely.