How to plan a backpacking trip?

Backpacking is one of the ultimate adventure activities - discovering new paths, conquering mountains and overnighting in the backwoods makes for a great day for backpackers. To be a successful backpacker, you need to know the dos and don'ts of survival in the wild. Read this article and learn how to backpack!

1. Know the route

Do your research before hiking. Many times, bloggers post pictures, tips and directions to make sure other backpackers don't get lost. Do some research online for information on departure locations and see what you find. Find out why this area is famous - are there rattlesnakes? Bear? Or flash floods? It is good to know the situation you may face before you set off.

2. Check the weather forecast

Use a site like weather.com to check the weather in the area you're going to, and find out what the weather will look like for the days you'll be spending there. Doing this will help you pack sensibly—if the area typically cools down significantly at night, you'll know you'll need to bring a warm coat, such as a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.

If you're backpacking for the first time and the weather forecast says it's going to rain (or snow) in the area you're going to, consider another weekend. Wet and cold are not ideal conditions for first-time backpackers and can make your journey difficult.

3. Understand first aid knowledge

Injuries on excursions are usually rare, but anything can happen, especially in more dangerous, unstable areas. Knowing how to dress up a sprained ankle or deal with an infected wound can be useful in the event of something unexpected on the road.

4. Use the right-sized backpack

If the backpack is too large, or is too high or too low relative to the back, it will increase the burden on the back and neck, which may lead to injury. If you're not sure which backpack is best for you, go to your local local mountaineering store (such as REI, Any Mountain, etc.) for help. In general, the following experience will help you figure out what size pack you should carry.

Day excursions: use a 15-30 liter backpack
One to two day night hikes: use a 30-50 liter backpack
Two- to three-day night hikes: use a 45-50 liter backpack
Long excursions (night excursions of more than three days): use a backpack over 55 liters

5. Know how to purify water

It is useful to carry a water purifier when hiking. One of the biggest dangers in the wild is dehydration without enough clean water. Portable water purifiers will ensure you never run out of potable water. There are many types of lightweight water purifiers that you can easily carry on the go.

include:
Pump water purifier: This is a water purifier that works together with a hand-held pump and water bottle. You pump the stream water into the water purifier, the water is treated to become drinking water, and then the clean water is pressed into your water bottle.

Ultraviolet water purifier: Use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria in water.

Purifiers: Iodine tablets are the most common purifiers. Simply place the purifying tablet in water until dissolved. Purifiers can give off a slightly odd smell that kills bacteria that may be present in the water.

6. Know how to pitch a tent

The method of setting up your tent depends on what type of tent you have. Some tents are relatively easy to set up. Before you go, you need to read the tent's manual to make sure you have every part you need to set up your tent.

7. Know how to make a fire

Most campgrounds have a dedicated fire pit called a fire pit. While hiking, however, you may reach a spot without a fire pit. If this is the case, you will need to clear out a circle of dirt that was originally soil and encircle it with stones. That way you don't have to worry about setting the entire area on fire when you start fire. You'll also need to collect firelighters to burn. Be sure to bring matches or a lighter when camping and hiking.

Method 2 Packaging

1. Prepare for climate change

It often happens that the excursion starts out sunny and later turns into a storm. Depending on the season, the weather can change to hail, thunder, and lightning, blizzards, or high winds. Pack a waterproof, windproof jacket for easy access and storage. From fall through spring, consider bringing a set of thermal underwear to keep you warm and dry.

2. Bring fewer items

For overnight trips or long day trips, don't bring too many things to avoid getting too tired. Pack only what you need. Wear warm, light clothing. Clothes that are warm and can be tucked into a small ball are best, such as down jackets. Layering is important when packing. The best material for vests and jackets is wool, as wool is warm and easy to dry.

If you're packing in an area that's getting cold, make sure you bring gloves, warm socks, and a hat. Remember to bring an extra pair of socks. Wet socks can make the backpacker's journey a pain.

3. Bring the right food

Look for foods that are high in fiber, protein, and high in fat to boost and conserve energy. Assorted nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky, and even tuna crackers are good options for replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat. Outdoor sports stores sell dehydrated meals that are easy to carry and pack. You can eat it after adding hot water.

Eating a small number of nuts before bed can actually help you feel warmer at night. If you're absolutely sure that the location you're hiking is close to a water source, bring only the water and water purifier you need on the way to that location.

4. Bring essential items for camping

Due to the frequent occurrence of unforeseen circumstances, there are some must-carry items for camping. include:

Tools to help you figure out where you are. Includes a map of the area, a locator, and a compass.

A light or flashlight helps you see at night. You should also carry some extra batteries in case the battery runs out.

A pot or a portable stove. Pots can be used to boil water over a fire. It is also a good idea to have a portable stove that can be used for cooking.

A first aid kit. Contains Band-Aids, anti-inflammatory pain relievers, ankle sprain sleeves, spray insecticide, gauze pads, and medicine to treat blisters.

Tools for construction and repair. Includes pocket or multipurpose swiss army knife, kraft tape, and tarp (in case the tent is lost or damaged). You should also bring some plastic bags, which can be used to store trash and wet swimsuits or wrap your feet in a plastic bag if you find your hiking boots are torn and water starts to get in.

Tools for starting a fire, including a lighter, matches, and a fire extinguisher (for emergencies)

5. Pack sunscreen

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a good hat (a baseball cap works great) are essentials to pack. If you have to carry a backpack while your shoulders get sunburned, you're out of luck. A waterproof sunscreen works well and lasts even when it's raining. Opt for polarized sunglasses - they can protect your eyes better than regular sunglasses.

Method 3 is on the way

1. Drink water

Many people don't like to drink enough water during the day, and it's important to make sure you drink more than the usual recommended amount if you're doing physical activity. Drink water before the hike begins. Consider using a hump hydration pack for easy access to water while hiking, especially during the hot, sweaty summer months.

2. pack and take away

The right rules for hiking and camping mean experiencing nature and leaving it back. Pack up all the litter and animal waste and leave what you find. Respect animal life and minimize the impact of campfires. Paper waste can be burned, but please take all plastic waste with you. For longer trips, bring a glove bag or small garbage bag to store waste and dispose of it properly when you leave.

3. Don't deviate from the route

When hiking, paying attention to markers and natural landmarks can help you find your way to some extent and prevent you from getting lost. Pick a reasonable endpoint on the first day of your hike and don't stray far from that destination.

4. Maintain a moderate speed

Many people are very competitive and want to get to their destination quickly. But this can be overwhelming for the body. Take breaks every 10 to 15 minutes depending on temperature and terrain. Drink enough water to feel how your body is feeling. If you feel like you need to breathe fast, then do it. Many people pass out or have trouble breathing at high altitudes or high temperatures.

5. Watch out for bears and other animals

When you're camping, take care to tie food up high so animals can't reach it. Bear crates can be used if the campsite has one. Let animals know you are nearby. You don't have to tap the jars to scare the animals away, you can talk or shout occasionally, or play music and some noise to let the animals in the forest know you're there.

If you come across a large predator, such as a big wild cat or bear, you need to know how to avoid conflict with them. Don't run (you can't outrun it), avoid direct eye contact, walk away slowly, don't scream, and stay calm. Keep pepper spray handy and keep it within easy reach to protect yourself in the event of an attack. If the bear approaches, remain calm and speak in a soft voice. If the bear attacks, curl up into a ball and play dead. In short, keep calm.

6. Set up camp

That means finding a good spot for pitching your tent and protecting the camp from animals. After arriving at the camp, set up tents - because it is more difficult to set up tents at night.

Precautions
Although this article details the dos and don'ts of backpacking, you'll want to check with a backpacking expert at your local outdoor sports store before you go. They can give you some guidance based on their own personal experience.

It's best to experience that kind of strict camping life before going on a backpacking trip, as there are fewer risks involved in strict camping.