Ingrid and Ilona If you’re backpacking without a plan, you’re overthinking it. And when you’re overthinking it, you’re not having fun. I’ve been backpacking since I was a kid, and one thing I’ve learned is that it’s important to have fun with this activity. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, traveling with friends, or taking a family trip, it’s important to never lose sight of the fun.
Here Are Backpacking Tips from the Pros:
- Right Clothing for The Weather.
Taking the right clothing is important when you backpack. You want to be able to stay comfortable, dry, and protected from the weather. However, buying the right clothing can take time. You also need to make sure each item is the right size, and you know how to put it together piece by piece, which can be a challenge.
- Pack A First Aid Kit, A Few Basic Toiletries, And A Compass.
When backpacking, you need to pack light. But you also shouldn’t leave anything behind that could save your life or someone else’s. You’ll also want to pack a few basic toiletry items and a compass, as you never know when you may need them.
- Online Map to Create a Route, And Detailed Itinerary.
One of the best ways to save money on your backpacking trip is to plan your route in advance and weigh out all your options. Online map tools like Map My Hike provide detailed maps that will show you exactly where to walk. They can also help you create detailed itineraries tailored to your trip. With apps like these, you can map out your entire backpacking trip.
- Review Reservations and Secure Transportation
Review any reservations you’ve made, and make sure you have a means of transportation there and back. Before you book any backpacking trip, make sure you check out all the potential accommodations online. That way, you can reserve a place to stay in advance, saving you money on booking fees. If you can’t reserve ahead of time, call the hotel to make sure it’s booked or look for alternative accommodations in the area. Also, make sure to get transportation to and from your location.
- Bring Only What You Need
Bringing too many unnecessary items can make your trip stressful and uncomfortable, so make sure you’re only bringing what you need. Packing for a trip is a daunting task. Most of us try to pack everything but the kitchen sink, then wonder why we came home with all of our luggage. Overlanders, or those who travel by foot, motorcycle, or bicycle, know this to be true—you don’t need much to survive. Save your space, pack light, and just bring what you really need.
- Always Pack the Right Gear.
While in high school and college, you can usually get away with whatever backpack you have. However, when you’re backpacking, you’re going to need to bring something with a lot more room. Backpacks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. The size you need depends on how much gear you’re packing and how long you’ll be gone.
- Plan Your Trip.
Layout all of your details ahead of time, so you’re less likely to forget anything. Planning ahead is essential to any successful trip. This is especially important when you backpack since it’s all about making the most of your time.
The outdoor lifestyle can be both challenging and rewarding. But before you head off on your next adventure, make sure you know what you’re doing. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice backpacker, these tips will help you plan your trip, stay safe, and make the most of your travels.
