Making Sure You Know the Basics About Backpacking
More and more people are hitting the trails these days and seeing things the old fashioned way, backpacking. If you are new to the sport/hobby, there are some things that you will want to know about backpacking before you start up the trail. It all starts with making sure that you have your pack loaded up with all the essentials.
There are plenty of thing that you should pack, but there are two things that you MUST pack when you are going on a backpacking trip, a map and a compass. If you end up losing your way, you definitely need to make sure that you can find your way back. Put both of these in your gear and make sure that you know how to use them.
Injuries and cuts are going to happen and you need to make sure that you are ready to deal with them. You can get a decent first aid kit for travel at your local drugstore or outdoor shop. They will fit right into one of the side compartments of your pack and will have everything that you might need for a small emergency.
Extra clothing is also something that you want to have. It will come in handy in case of an unexpected mess, at night for extra warmth and if the weather turns bad. If you are struggling for space, they sell bags and pumps that will remove the air and compact the clothing. You can keep the small pump with you and redo the bag if you have to take something out.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are more items that you want to make sure you have. If you are going to be on the trails all day, you need to protect both your eyes and skin regardless of what time of year it is. The sun doesnt care if it is summer or winter, it can still cause damage. Protect yourself and play it safe.
In order to make sure you have enough food, pack a little extra in your bag. Things like trail mix and energy bars will get you through the rough patches when you are still hours away from getting a meal. In addition to bottled water, you may want to use a hydration pack so you always have water ready to drink.
Fire is something people often forget and that you want to make sure that you are prepared to make. Do this with waterproof matches and firestarter. There is firestarter that you can purchase or you can make it up yourself out of things like balls of lint from your dryer. Keep all of these items in a sealed container to ensure that regardless of the weather or circumstances, they stay dry.
Learning about backpacking is more than just putting a pack on your shoulders and hitting the trails. There is as much to learn about what to take as there is on how to handle yourself on the trails. Take the time to really learn about backpacking and make sure that you trip is both enjoyable and safe.
If you enjoy backpacking, you should check out Rics site on backpacking trips. It is loaded with tips on backpacking safety, destinations and much more.
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