Investing in high-quality gear is one of the first steps you should take if you’re going to get into backpacking. You may want to rent your gear early on, but if you want to become a regular backpacker, it will make more sense to buy your own equipment. It will also be more cost-effective.
If you are new to backpacking, check out this article: Backpacking for Beginners.
Must-have backpacking gear:
A Sturdy, Comfortable Backpack
You can’t go on a backpacking trip without a durable backpack to store all your items. If you’ll be gone overnight, look for a backpack that can hold 30 to 50 liters. For your first backpack, try not to get something too large (unless you’re taking a long trip) because you’ll be tempted to overpack which will make the hike more difficult. Look for something with a rain cover so your backpacking equipment won’t get soaked.
Comfortable Sleeping Bag
If you’re going to be spending the night and you don’t want to wake up the next morning in a bad mood, you need to be selective on what sleeping bag you buy. When looking at your options, look for something that’s rated at least ten degrees cooler than the temperature you’ll be sleeping in.
Spacious Tent
When you’re searching for a tent. Look for a vestibule. This will ensure you have plenty of room for all your backpacking equipment without feeling too cramped when you’re sleeping. You may also want a groundsheet for extra durability.
Water Essentials – Hydration Backpacking Gear
Your supply of H2O is crucial to your trip. You don’t want to pack too much water because it will weigh your down. That means you need a way of refilling your water bottle and purifying the contents. You can do this with a water filter or some kind of chemical treatment.
Stove and Fuel
With your hydration taken care of, you’ll also need to think about how you’ll cook food on your trip. Of course, you don’t want to get too carried away because you can only pack so much without it becoming a major burden. Something like this is perfectly compact. Don’t forget to bring fuel to heat the stove!
Navigation Backpacking Gear
No one wants to risk getting lost while on a backpacking trip. Make sure you have plenty of ways to ensure you always know where you are and where you’re headed. A map and compass are essential. You’ll also want a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon to send an SOS in case you run into trouble.
First Aid Kit
You always want to prepare for the worst especially if you’re backpacking. You can build your own first aid kit to prepare for injuries and sickness when you’re on the move, but you’ll also find plenty of pre-made options which will help you save money.
Other Essential Backpacking Gear
A few other items you shouldn’t leave home without include:
- Energy-packed food including one day’s worth of extra food
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Moisture-wicking underwear and t-shirts
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Firestarter in case of emergency
- Basic toiletries
- SPF, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat for sun protection
- Insect repellant
- A knife or multi-tool
When you’re armed with all of these items, you’ll be ready to complete your backpacking trip with minimal issues. If you’ve invested in high-quality backpacking gear, they will last you for many future trips!
See where this story/article ranks in popularity: Top 10 List
Click here for “How to go Solo Backpacking“
Pingback: Backpacking Safety Tips that will Ensure Success - Live Life OutdoorZ