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With countless trails awaiting you in the Pacific Northwest, sometimes day hiking isn’t enough. Whether you’ve been eye-balling a long-distance loop, you’re aiming to escape the crowds of popular campsites, or you’re simply wanting more time outside, backpacking is your answer.
Yet that can be an intimidating leap! Going from spending a few hours on the trail to suddenly staying overnight in the backcountry. This is why we’ve crafted a beginner’s guide to backpacking.
First, let’s talk about safety when it comes to both you and the environment you’re visiting. While planning for backpacking, buy camping gear that consists of all the basic essentials. Make a checklist of items that are required like raincoats, blankets, sleeping bags, tents, and torches. Meanwhile, you can keep a constant check on the local laws governing your trip location.
Due to the high volume of recreationalists who want to experience the natural wonders of our beautiful region, many backcountry and wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest operate on permit systems for overnight visits. By doing so, land management organizations are hoping to mitigate negative impacts on the natural environment.
What this means for you as a backpacker is:
- Be sure to check what permits are needed for the area you’re visiting
- Recognize that just like with day hiking, you are a guest in the environment and need to follow all Leave No Trace principles.
Another note about safety with overnight trips: Let at least one friend or family member who is staying behind know what your plan is. Provide them an itinerary of where you’re starting, where you’re planning on camping overnight, and when you should be back.
Once you’ve got your permit secure and are clear for take-off, it’s time to start packing! And while packing, ensure that you take all the below-mentioned necessities with you. However, it might soon seem to you that you have overpacked, for which you might then consider buying the Best roof racks for overloading the items on your camper van or trailer. That said, it does not really matter if you have put in some extra things in your vehicle; just be sure to not be unprepared before going on a trip.
10 Essentials for Every Backpacker
Tent
Double-check you’ve packed your poles, footprint, and rain cover.
Sleeping Bag and Pad
Sleeping bags and pads have different temperature ratings so it’s important to make sure you’re bringing the appropriately rated gear to keep you warm at night.
Fully Stocked First Aid Kit
That’s right, fully stocked! Double, if not triple, check your first aid kit before heading into the backcountry. Additionally, make sure you know the basic first aid skills that can come in handy if some emergencies arise.
Navigation
Yes, digital devices like a cellphone technically provide navigation. However, we strongly encourage you to have both a map of the area you’re hiking in, as well as a compass (and to know how to use them!)
Food
Think of how many days you’re going to be out for, plus take into consideration your activity level. For example, if you’re only hiking a couple casual miles to get to camp, you probably don’t need tons of calories. A pack of trail mix, some Smoked Jerky, and a few drinks to keep you hydrated should be enough. But if you’re hiking a long distance, or covering some serious elevation gain, you’re probably going to want to load-up on some extra food and snacks!
Stove Set-Up
I use a Jetboil, but there are many backpacking stove options available. Don’t forget your lighter or matches!
Water
This is a huge consideration when planning a backpacking trip. First, what are your available water resources in the backcountry? Are you camping near a lake or river? Will you need to carry enough water for the night? If you’re sourcing water from a natural source (like a river or lake), you’ll also need to determine your purification method. There are lots of options out there, from dissolvable tablets to pump systems. Take some time to research and find which option best suits your needs.
Toilet Paper
Because even in the backcountry … nature calls.
Garbage Bag
After nature calls, clean it up! Toilet paper, along with a lot of other items you’re bringing into the backcountry like food wrappers and such, are NOT biodegradable. You need to be prepared to pack out 110% of your trash (the 10% being extra litter you pick up off the trail as a responsible steward to the land.)
Hand Sanitizer
After picking up all that garbage, you’re going to want to sanitize.
Headlamp and Extra Batteries
If you don’t have a battery powered headlamp, make sure it is charged before heading out.
Layers and Extra Clothes
Just as layering and appropriate clothing is important for day hiking, it’s equally crucial for overnight trips. Make sure you bring items for the forecast. Things to consider: Is there a chance of rain? How cold does it get at night? Is it going to be super sunny so I need a sun hat and sunscreen?
Now this is only the basics of what is needed for backpacking. As you start talking with other backpackers, and experience a few trips of your own, your list is very likely going to change.
However, with these 10 items, you should be prepared for a night in the backcountry.
Image by davelogan
Tags: backpacking
