There’s no doubt that the global pandemic has affected everyone, the lockdown has forced people inside and provided more spare time than we’ve ever had. Many have decided to use the time fixing jobs in their home, catching up on their favorite television shows, or learning a new skill, but there are some that have decided to use this time planning their next escape. Travel is an oasis for many so being stuck inside will have got the creative juices flowing, trips never considered are now on the table. Planning a backpacking trip for the first time? Here’s what you need to prepare.
Where Do You Want to Go?
The first decision you’ll need to make is where you want to go on your backpacking trip. Decide what kind of trip you want and how difficult it might be. Tackling large, difficult to climb mountains might not be the best choice if you’re a novice so take into consideration the various routes available and choose an easier one. Do you want to be far from civilization or do you want to be close to some form of shop? How far do you want to walk per day? What’s the perfect surrounding? What do you want to get out of the trip? These are all questions you need to ask yourself in order to get the most out of your trip. There’s no point in arriving somewhere and discovering you hate it because you haven’t prepared properly. Don’t waste your post COVID excursions.
What Gear Do You Need?
If the true nature of backpacking is what you’re after then there’s a fair bit of kit you’ll need to get, but it won’t cost you crazy amounts of money. There are plenty of cheaper brands that do a fantastic job and won’t break the bank. There are some things that spending the money on would be wise and the professionals at 50miler.com suggest you research every option before making a purchase. Certain corners are made to be cut, but skimping out in the wrong areas can leave you in a spot of bother. The gear you should spend some money on is as follows:
Backpack
Your wardrobe, kitchen cupboard, and essentials cabinet for the trip, the backpack should be looked at in detail. There is a huge variety of designs and brands that all come with their own quirks, but don’t let that detract you from their main purpose. This pack will be carrying everything you have for your trip so it’s imperative that it’s comfortable and fits well. An ill-fitted pack will lead to back pain and shoulder pain, making your trip very uncomfortable. In this area, size matters too. Anything too small will restrict your trip massively so look at the larger 60-90L sizes.
Tent
If you’re truly going original then camping along your way is a must. You’ll have to carry your tent so if there are over 4 of you on the trip, then buy multiple tents, they’re much lighter than carrying one giant one. Outer pitch first tents are easier to put up and can offer shelter immediately, whereas their inner pitch first siblings leave you open to the elements until you get a cover over the top.
Tents aren’t cheap, but that’s for a reason. Buying a decent one will last you forever and make your journey far more comfortable.
Boots
No one needs blisters in their life and that’s what budget shoes bring. Invest in some decent boots above the $150 mark and make sure they fit properly. Head to a specialist store to get your sizes checked and see if the boot shape is good for you.
Dry Bags
You’ve probably never heard of these, but they are a godsend. They are bags that keep whatever is inside them dry. Inventive name, right? Buy a variety of sizes and keep whatever is in your backpack inside a dry bag just in case the heavens open and your water-resistant backpack doesn’t quite hold up. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Map and Compass
Our phones don’t last forever. Buy a map and compass for wherever you’re heading and learn how to read them. It’s one of the best skills to have in the wild.
There are, of course, many other bits of equipment you’ll need when traveling, but these are the what you take serious care of.
Don’t Forget…
There’s always something to forget when heading out on a trip like this, so here’s a little reminder of the things people forget to plan and pack:
Money
Take some emergency money wherever you go. Dollars are good in many places, but if you head to Europe, then get some Euros as Dollars won’t get you very far.
Travel Insurance
If you’re going somewhere that could end up being dangerous then take out a specific form of travel insurance, getting home can be expensive when you’ve been seriously injured. It’s the worst-case scenario, but it’s better to be prepared, scouts honor.
Solar Charger
Get a solar power block that can recharge your electronics. You’ll be thanking me for years to come.
Backpacking is an incredible thing to do and it’s worth every penny it costs to get you set up. Once you’re in a country, it can be as expensive or as cheap as you like. Camping around in the most beautiful scenery the world has to offer is an experience like no other, so get your boots on and head outside.
