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