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Backpacking sounds like the most intimidating hobby but I promise you it is not as bad as you think. With the right planning and gear, it might be your next favorite outdoor activity. I’ve been backpacking for 4 years now and in this guide I will share tips, gear I can’t live without, and mistakes to avoid when backpacking.
Why You’ll Love Backpacking
- Sleeping in the beautiful backcountry
- A sense of accomplishment (there’s something so cool about having all you need in a pack)
- The best sunrises and sunsets with hardly anyone around
- A deeper connection with nature
Where To Go For Your First Backpacking Trip
When it’s your first time backpacking, it’s definitely wise to choose a location that’s near your home. Ideally somewhere that’s 1-2 hours away. Use AllTrails to search for hikes that are moderate in difficulty and don’t try a hiking a trail with a pack that’s way beyond a distance you’ve day hiked before.
Here’s a checklist that’ll help you find the perfect beginner’s backpacking trail:
- 1-2 hours from home
- Less than 10 miles round trip
- Lower elevation gain
- Has water sources like rivers and lakes
- Pretty views can help ease the pain
Beginner Backpacking Gear (what you REALLY need)
If you are new to backpacking and don’t want to commit to buying a lot of gear, I highly recommend renting from REI. The prices are fair and it’s a great way to test out different brands without paying a huge chunk. I’ve had my fair share of gear I hated & one’s that I’ve loved that have been with me for YEARS.
Backpacking Gear List
- A good hiking boot that can handle rugged terrain. The Merrell Moab 3s are my go-to! They are durable, comfortable, and waterproof.
- Lightweight tent. My bf, dog, and I fit nicely in this Big Agnes Tent
- A light & comfy pillow. This makes all the difference! I am obsessed with the Nemo Fillo
- Camp stove, fuel & utensils
- Camp food. Linking my personal favorite mountain house meal here (I’ll touch more on camp food below!)
- Camp shoes
- Sleeping Pad
- Sleeping bag
- Water filter when you have fresh water sources
- Bear canister & spray if you’re in bear country
It is SUPER important that you test your gear before you hit the trail. You don’t want to find out you’re missing something or learn your stove is broken when you’re in the wilderness.
What To Eat When You’re Backpacking
Keeping your pack light will mean you can’t just bring any food you want on your backpacking trip. There are dehydrated meals that are made for backpacking but they can be pricey. I’ll list some alternatives below that are both easy to make and light:
- Idahoan potatoes
- Instant oats
- Ramen
- Risotto or any instant rice that only requires boiling hot water
Make sure to bring plenty of snacks & treat yourself to a candy bar or two, you’ll likely need the extra calories anyway!
Leave No Trace
It’s important to brush up on your Leave No Trace principles when backpacking. Some really important ones to remember when camping in the backcountry are:
- Camp on durable surfaces. Avoid camping on vegetation.
- If nature calls, make sure to dig at least 6 inches for solid waste
- Pack out your all trash including toilet paper
Additional Beginner Backpacking Tips
- Keep your weight as light as possible. You will not need that extra change of clothes on an overnight trip.
- Make sure to check if a permit is needed on an overnight trip.
- Don’t skip out on bringing camp shoes, your feet will thank you.