The best way to refresh yourself is to go for a backpacking trip to explore nature and wilderness. The great environmentalist John Muir said, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” But before going on a trip you need proper planning. This article is all about planning a backpacking trip.
- Go on day hikes first: Starts day hikes first without any gear but plenty of water. You can also carry light snacks and a map of that area. It’ll prepare your mind and feels you excited about a long day backpacking trip. After going for a few hikes you will fall in love with nature. When you start liking it, go for longer hikes than.
- Pick a destination: Choose a destination depending upon which you like most. It means whether you like mountains or grassland forests or lakes. When you’re planning for a trek, timing is important. Select the most suitable time of the year for any backcountry expedition. I’ll suggest you skip crowded areas and bear heavy areas. Always pick a destination depending upon your abilities.
- Get a map – Plan your route: Plan your route as wilderness areas have a variety of options to hike. Find a specific trail. Having a map of that area is very crucial for backpacking and hiking trips. British Ordnance Survey or USGS maps are more accurate and reliable. Furthermore, try to carry a compass when you’re out there in the backcountry. Watch this video on how to use a compass.
- Check backcountry permits: The best way of planning an outdoor trek is to check backcountry permits and regulations of that area. Check for camping and campfire guidelines. I’ll suggest you pick a destination and then visit their website for further information like permits and regulations.
- Prepare necessary supplies: Backpacking means carrying essential gears with you. Some major supplies are tent, sleeping bag, headlamp, maps, compass, stoves, fire starter, water filter, water bottle, first aid kit, and knife. If any of these are missing you may fall in danger. Make a checklist and pack them in your backpack.
- Bring enough food and water: How much water you need to bring? Answering this question is easy once you have planned out your route. When you’re carrying a water filter make the proper use of water sources throughout your trip. So that you don’t have to carry extra water. Remember that you will need at least 2/3 liters of water a day. If this is your first trip deciding how much food to bring would be a little tougher. Yet I will advise you to pack extra food so that you never run out of food.
- ‘Leave No Trace’ Principles: No, obviously I’m not talking about the ‘Leave No Trace’ movie. I’m talking about the seven principles of outdoor backpacking. These 7 principles are the best practices we must follow to enjoy as well as protect our natural resources.
- Check-in with someone with a detailed plan: Leave with a detailed itinerary with someone. I mean a detailed plan including the route, inventory, areas where you plan to stay, and when you expect to return. Must inform them after you have returned safely. Do this every time you go for a trip. If anything bad happens it will help the rescuer to rescue.
Backpacking is fun, right. This is the best way to get outdoors and enjoy your life as well as enjoy nature. Going into a trip unprepared can lead you to an extremely dangerous situation. So prepare like the best when you go for a backpacking trip.