Planning Your First Backpacking Break – A Beginner’s Guide To Adventure

Start with the joys of local backpacking

Granted, the siren call of far-flung lands and exotic culture is captivating. For your first backpacking steps, you may want to stay local instead and explore an area nearby. For instance, you could turn to the local woodland or mountain for your backpacking adventure.

When you opt for a local destination, you have the option to backtrack a little if you come across unexpected situations or troubles. Being local means that you already know where to go for help. Additionally, this also streamlines the logistics of planning a new trip. Going backpacking in a remote area can be tricky as you are going to experience a lot of novelties at the same time. While you are getting the hang of backpacking, it’s best to start with a known environment before you spread your wings to the rest of the world! 

Plan a short trip

You are only getting started. The last thing you need right now is to plan a long backpacking trip. Most backpackers walk on average 3 to 10 miles a day. So, you want to ensure you are fit enough for the challenge. For your first trip, it’s best to keep things short. Aim for a few days away, which will be easy to plan food-wise. 

Remember that as a backpacker, you will be traveling essentially by foot. So, you want to ensure you can fuel your body sufficiently. This means carrying food with you. As such, a short trip can make it a lot easier to stay strong and healthy. Long backpacking journeys can be exhausting, especially if you are not well-prepared.

Pack a tent 

When envisioning the romanticism of backpacking, you are probably seeing images of rugged trails and breathtaking landscapes. Yet, if you are going to explore natural sceneries, you also need to consider a shelter for the night time. Every backpacker should carry a tent with them. While this doesn’t mean you have to use the tent, as you might be able to find other more convenient shelter options, you need to be prepared for the event of not having any accommodation waiting for you.

Yet, backpacking is all about traveling light, which means that you may not be able to pack everything you would bring on a camping journey. This may include additional comfort for the tent. So, if you are worried about getting cold or uncomfortable on the ground, it may be worth considering buying a hammock tent. This will give you protection against the cold and wet ground and the bugs.

Comfort over couture

Backpackers walk and spend most of their time outside. So, you want to pack carefully for the situation. Hiking shoes are a fantastic option for everyday walking in nature. They are designed to be comfortable and hold your ankles, which will prevent injuries if walking on uneven tracks. 

Another important aspect of your outfit is to opt for practical clothes. Moisture-wicking fabrics will keep you dry in summer during sweaty uphill climbs. They also dry fast after a surprise rain shower. Finally, you want to prepare some layers. Essentially, it could get a little cooler at night, or even if you are walking in a shaded area in nature. So, being able to put on or remove layers easily is a must-have. 

Power up with solar chargers 

Backpacking doesn’t mean you should be disconnected from the world. In an age of connectivity, you need to keep your phone topped up in the event you have to navigate with a GPS map or call for assistance. A solar-charger can be your best bet to keep your electronics charged when you are backpacking in nature. If you are familiar with outdoor camping, you probably already use one of those! 

As you embark on your first backpacking trip, a whirlwind of experiences and emotions may wash over you. The experience may be marked by a mix of awe, excitement, fatigue, and uncertainty. Your preparation will ensure you can enjoy the rollercoaster of sensations with a smile on your face.