Backpacking is something that anyone can do to get some physical activity and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. While you don’t need any special training, you should start out with short trips that will take you just a couple of hours to complete. This will give you the feel for carrying a backpack and help you adjust to the terrain. Additionally, there ware a few preparations you should make before taking a longer backpacking trip.
Plan Your Route
You should create a route before you head out on any backpacking trip. While a spontaneous hike may seem like fun, going unprepared could leave you lost for an extended period of time. It’s better to know where you’ll be hiking, so you can approximate how long it will take you to get to each point of interest. You should also know where you’ll be camping out. You may need permits to camp, so be sure to check into that as a precaution.
Pack the Necessities
When it comes to filling your backpack, you should make a list of necessary items to include. Your list should include first aid supplies, cooking and eating utensils, tents, flashlights, printed maps, flare gun, and extra clothes. You should also bring along plenty of canned goods, dry snacks, and water. If you plan to cook your meals, be sure you bring along a lighter and lighter fluid or a propane cooking range. Know what you’ll eat on your trip and how you’ll prepare that food, so you won’t be left in a difficult situation.
Don’t Go Alone
You should avoid going on any extended backpacking trip by yourself. If you can’t get at least one friend to go with you, it’s better to join another group that’s looking for participants. An extended backpacking trip requires living in the wilderness without access to modern amenities. If you’re alone and you get injured or lost, you won’t have any way to reach help. When you travel with others, there will be at least one other person to provide first aid or seek out help.
Be sure to leave your plans with a friend or relative. You’ll want to ensure they know where you’ll be backpacking and when you expect to get back. If something does happen that prevents you from returning home on time, your loved one will know where to send help.