Photo Credit: Andreas Rentz / Getty Images
Backpacking is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. It’s estimated that over 10 million people took part in the pastime in 2020. While people love to connect with the wilderness, there’s some things beginner backpackers should know before embarking on their first excursion.
When you’re carrying all your gear, you’ll not have the option to eat much fresh food. There is, however, a solution: dehydrated meals. These can easily be cooked, as long as you have fire and water. They barely take up any room in your pack and come in many different forms.
If dehydrated meals aren’t your thing, other options include pre-made sandwiches, protein bars and granola.
It can be easy to stay cool while out in the wild, as layers can always be removed. Staying warm, on the other hand, can be a bit more difficult. As such, backpackers need to focus on comfort, rather than a nice appearance.
Look for warm layers that can easily fit in your pack. You’ll also want to focus on wearing wool, rather than cotton. This may make you smell a bit more pungent, but that shouldn’t be too much of a concern when you’re out backpacking.
Backpackers are usually so concerned about efficiently packing their bags that they can easily forget important things like sunscreen and bug spray.
These adventurers are going to be spending much more time than usual in direct sunlit, meaning protection is essential. Hikers are also likely to encounter annoying bugs, such as mosquitos, so bug spray is highly recommended.
People who have never been on a long backpacking trip might overestimate their ability to complete the trek. As such, beginners are advised against making a long trip to start and, instead, prepare with shorter excursions.
Newcomers can also prepare for hikes by jogging, using an elliptical or walking at home. As well, make sure you’re familiar with how the elements and altitude may differ from your hometown.
We already know that dehydrated meals are among the best choices for backpackers, but not all are created equal. They burn plenty of calories when on a trip and it’s important to refuel. Therefore, backpackers should look for food that’s more calorie-dense. Smart choices include oatmeal for breakfast and instant mashed potatoes with dinner.
Obviously, campers should be drinking plenty of water while out, but it’s obviously heavy and cumbersome to travel with. Most hiking trails have streams nearby, but the water flowing through them could be contaminated.
The nice thing is that it’s easier to purify water than ever before. Nowadays, water from a nearby stream can be filtered in as little as 90 seconds by using a purifying wand.
When hiking along a trail during the day, you’ll want to be wearing some serious hiking boots or shoes. By the end of the day, you’ll most definitely want to get them off as quickly as possible. For time at your campsite, make sure to pack comfortable shoes. During the summertime, you can even pack sandals that won’t take up too much room.
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Many don’t like to stay too far from their cellphones and that includes hikers. Of course, it’s not just about Twitter and Instagram. A phone could be a lifeline if there’s a serious accident. Hikers in cold weather are advised to keep their devices in a thermal bag, as the chill could affect their battery life. Camping stores also sell power banks that can be used to keep phones charged.
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