Creating a list for your next backpacking adventure is essential to ensure that your trip is a success. Because backpacking involves hiking and walking while carrying all of your gear on your back, you will want to keep your load as lightweight as possible. Any unnecessary items can weigh you down and cause pain and exhaustion. Missing one or more items on your excursion could cause you to turn around and go home or set you behind schedule. A packing checklist will help you organize your must-haves so nothing gets left behind.
Essentials
Backpacking is all about being able to freely explore the nooks and crannies of nature without boundaries. Making sure you pack efficiently is important so you are not overloaded with weight, yet have everything you need. GORP suggests that when creating your list, on paper, make sure that you take into consideration the three seasons. This includes packing for both hot days and cool or cold nights. Included in your list should be the following essentials that no backpacker should be without. For overnight stays, put your lightweight tent and sleeping bag at the top of your list. Filled water canteens should be weighted in the center of the backpack and also in a location for easy access. Sunscreen, bug spray, topographic map, toilet paper, plastic baggies, sunglasses, whistle, hand sanitizer and a first-aid kit should be packed as well. A pocket knife and rope are also essential to be able to hang a clothes line or set up camp. A GPS and hand-held radio may be beneficial in desolate hiking and wilderness areas.
Food
Food is very important to have on your list. You want to pack just enough to stay nourished. Plan out all of your meals and snacks before you generate the list. You have to decide if you are going to be cooking some of your food or taking along pre-packaged meals or snacks, or a combination of both. Take along an ice pack and eat the perishable food first. If you are cooking, it is important to include a lightweight backpacking stove on your packing list. Using a lightweight stove will allow you to cook your food thoroughly while being able to boil water and liquids in a matter of minutes. This allows you to be efficient and stay nourished as well as minimize your carbon footprint throughout your excursion. Dry foods like instant oatmeal, granola and trail mix allow you to use minimal water and heating methods for fast nutrition. Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods can be turned into meals for a healthy alternative to packaged snacks. Dry milk and dehydrated fruits offer a healthy fill-in for each meal or snack. If you are in a bear area, make sure to store all trash and foodstuffs in an airtight, bear-proof container.
Clothing
Clothing is important no matter the length of your trip. Easy Backpacking Tips explains that if you layer your clothes, it will help you to reduce the weight of your backpack and remain comfortable throughout your trek. For overnight stays, make sure to pack a pair of light shoes, such as sandals or water shoes, for a more comfortable feel for when you set up camp. Extra pairs of underwear and socks will help you stay fresh and dry. Long thermal underwear, swimming trunks and a towel are also essentials if you will be in changing weather environments. A rain jacket or synthetic jacket will help keep you dry and prevent your clothes from getting wet. Bring along a scarf and gloves if traveling through the mountains or wintry conditions.
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