Backpacking when you are a newbie into this can be a stressful experience unless you know someone to guide you. Like all in life, when we are learning something new we need others’ help. So, this backpacking for beginners article is made to share with you some tips that maybe can help you if you are a newcomer.
There are a lot of guides on the internet but sometimes they overwhelm you with a large amount of information. So in this post, I will try to bring an overview of the information. Maybe in the future, I can make articles talking more deeply about this topic.
So, let’s go to the tips!
Choose a Destination for a Backpacking Beginner
If we talk about backpacking for beginners then the most common is to begin with an easy hike, near your home, with shorter distances (because of the weight carried), a well-traveled trail (just in case you may need help), ideally with a bathroom, with water near the camp, and summer weather.
Also, a good idea is to consult with experienced backpackers. They can give you options because backpacking for beginners can be bad a experience if you choose a hard trip to your level. Doing your first backpacking travel with an experienced backpacker is a very good idea if you don’t trust enough your current skills.
Know the Permits Needed and Check Local Rules
When you are a backpacking beginner is recommended to know if you need some kind of permit to pass or stay in the place to hike. Some camping areas require permits to avoid overcrowding and protect the environment. Check up on this (search on the website or go physically) and if you need one then learn how to get it. It could be very unpleasant to travel and then know you need a special permit.
Choose your Gear and Equipment
Another piece of advice on backpacking for beginners: make sure to test your gear before the trip (and know how to use it!).
The essential backpacking equipment for any backpacking trip is a tent, backpack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.
Another thing very important is clothing and shoes. Clothes should be made of moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics, and consider wearing in layers. Because of the long hours of hiking, shoes should protect your feet and be comfortable. Find the right hiking shoes/boots according to the destination and your feet.
In addition to the equipment mentioned it’s also a good idea to bring other items as such: something for navigation (GPS or map), a source of light (lantern, headlamp), some fire starters (waterproof matches, Ferro rod), and first aid supplies for emergencies.
Choose the Food, Water, and Cooking gear
Last but not least, water treatment is a must for a backpacking beginner. There are a lot of different options like chemical treatment (purification drops or tablets) or water filters (pump filters, gravity-fed filters).
Prepare Physically and Mentally
Backpacking for beginners requires being ready physically and mentally before the trip.
To prepare physically, try to practice walks with additional weight and do routes with a little bit of elevation. If it’s possible for you, also try to strengthen your lower body by doing leg exercises because they are going to work a lot on your backpacking trip.
Mentally, familiarize yourself with your equipment. For instance, know how to pitch your tent, use your stove, and filter water before travel. Learning some basic first aid and navigation (map and compass) are also useful skills. Another important thing is to get ready for the unexpected because sometimes things don’t go how we plan them. Playing with ‘what if?’ scenarios could help you to be aware and to preparing mentally for situations that may need you to adapt.