| Learning how to pack for a backpacking trip is the | | | | for your planned trip, and then add a meal or two in |
| key to a rewarding and enjoyable hike. | | | | case an emergency arises. For cooking, take along |
| Over pack and you risk fatigue setting in as your | | | | utensils and one titanium or aluminum pot that have a |
| energy and enjoyment of the hike drains out; under | | | | non-stick surface, a handle and that is large enough |
| pack and you may find yourself without essential | | | | to prepare your meal. |
| items. Although experience is going to serve as your | | | | How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip: Water |
| best teacher, here are a few things to consider | | | | By having sufficient water for your backpacking trip |
| when preparing your pack. | | | | you can prevent unnecessary dehydration during |
| How you pack your pack is always going to depend | | | | your hike. Plan your water supply according to the |
| on 4 factors - the length of your trip, the weather, | | | | mapped locations of the natural and man made water |
| the location of your hike, and your own personal | | | | sources found along the trail. And don't forget water |
| preferences. | | | | purification tablets for natural water no matter how |
| The best way to pack for a backpacking trip is to | | | | clear it may appear. |
| make a list, check it twice and then check it again | | | | How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip: Gear |
| before ever putting anything into your pack. | | | | Essential gear for your backpacking trip should include |
| Section the list into things you "will need" and things | | | | a hand-held flashlight, as well as one that does not |
| you "may need". | | | | require holding (use your head instead), fire starters |
| When purchasing and packing, keep in mind each | | | | and tinder, a sleeping bag, tent, map, compass, a |
| item's weight, and always choose gear that provides | | | | knife, and a few plastic bags for wet clothing and |
| a dependable balance of durability, flexibility and | | | | garbage. Emergency gear should include a whistle, |
| weight. | | | | signal mirror, insect repellent, a cell phone and a |
| How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip: Clothing | | | | first-aid kit. |
| Clothing is always going to depend on the climate and | | | | Useful things to remember when packing for a |
| your personal preferences. All experts recommend | | | | backpacking trip: |
| that you stay away from cottons when possible, | | | | When packing, it's best to use a backpack that is up |
| break in your boots before the hike begins, and buy | | | | to the task of your trip. It should have straps for |
| heavy wool or synthetic socks to protect your feet. | | | | your poles and a place for your tent equipment. Place |
| Aside from the clothes on your back, we | | | | heavy gear, such as your cooking supplies, and less |
| recommend that you also pack a waterproof | | | | needed items toward the bottom of the bag, and |
| windbreaker to keep you dry when it rains and a | | | | keep frequently used smaller items (like your |
| bandanna, great to block the sun and for | | | | compass) inside your pockets. |
| emergencies. | | | | Always plan ahead before venturing out on your |
| How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip: Food | | | | backpacking trip, no matter how long you plan to be |
| Freeze dried meals provide the nutrients and energy | | | | out. The time spent making sure that your pack is |
| your body needs, without the weight and clumsiness | | | | light and yet ready for any situation will set the |
| of other types of packaging like cans. Pack enough | | | | foundation for an enjoyable backpacking experience. |