We’ve all heard about it, and most of us know someone who’s gone backpacking. The idea of backpacking is incredibly appealing. You get to travel the world and meet new people, and it is honestly such a memorable adventure.
But many of us never leap because we’re afraid of being uncomfortable, think we’re too old, or have too many responsibilities. But backpacking isn’t an impossible dream.
People think that going on a backpacking trip is just a once-in-a-lifetime experience; others do it all the time. Backpacking is low-cost, and it’s easy for a backpacker to travel almost anywhere with the right amount of preparation.
Even entire communities of people travel only with one backpack, and these people are affectionately known as “backpackers.”
It is a style of travel in which you take all of your belongings with you on your trip. This isn’t the same as “light travel,” which usually means packing the bare minimum and only bringing what you need for the length of your trip. Backpacking is the polar opposite: you pack as many clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other items as will fit into your backpack.
The act of backpacking has become one of the most popular ways for people to escape the busyness of everyday life. Making it into a hobby yourself is easier than you may think, and there are many different worldwide destinations where you can begin your adventure.
Backpacking can be physically demanding, especially if you plan to hike for long distances. Make sure you’re prepared for your trip with proper backpacking essentials that are easy to pack and carry. Pack light, but pack carefully, and don’t forget to include these essential packing items:
For your first ever backpacking adventure, you should be packing a map and compass, which come in many shapes and sizes. Your map and compass should be easy to use, be waterproof, and withstand harsh environments.
Map and compasses aren’t just for hikers but for skiers, climbers, mountain bikers, snowshoeing, camping, and more! They are not only useful in the outdoors but can also be used to help find your way in times of transit.
Whether it’s on your next backpacking trip or hiking trip, you can use maps and compasses to accurately find your way to your next campsite and avoid getting lost. Today, smartphones have replaced them for many outdoor enthusiasts, but you still need them if you’re going somewhere without cell service.
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. When backpacking, you’re exposed to a different kind of sun that hits you like a hammer while exposing you to harmful rays the entire time. So, it’s crucial that you bring sunscreen made with SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 and that it’s waterproof.
The sun’s rays are powerful, even in cloudy weather, and without proper protection, you can get sunburned just by being out in the sun for too long. (When hiking, remember: you are enjoying the outdoors: getting sunburned is not one of the options.)
While backpacking is widely considered to be an easy activity, a trip into the wilderness without proper preparation can potentially turn into a disaster. While being self-sufficient and well-equipped for any situation is important, it’s the basic first aid item that every backpacker should take along.
Whether you’re hiking through the Appalachian Trail, driving across the country, or just exploring your favourite local trail, you can never have too much food and water on an adventure. When hiking, especially long distances, water and food are two of the essential items to have on you at all times.
If you’re serious about your outdoor adventure and plan to spend more than a day away from home, you’ll need to take along extra food and water. While packing food is easy enough, packing enough water and food to support you through 2-3 days of hiking can be a challenge.
When you travel in the great outdoors, the fewer items you take, the more time you can spend doing what you love—whether that’s hiking, camping or climbing. But even if you want to lighten your load, you’ll still need to pack extra clothing items and accessories into your luggage. From raingear to extra socks to bug spray, these underused items—and more—will help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.
When hiking, camping, or travelling without the convenience of a phone, satellite phone, or Wi-Fi, communication devices are essential. However, cell phone companies charge exorbitant prices for international calls and texting, and satellite phones are expensive in areas with no Wi-Fi or cell service. A hands-free, walkie-talkie or portable radio is your best bet while backpacking or camping.