This article will instruct on what to pack in that pack when hiking and backpacking.Whether your on a day hike of a week long adventure you will find this information useful
Several decades ago there were few specialized store for hikers and backpackers. Most hikers dressed in clothing similar to hunters and outdoorsmen.Heavy canvas tents were common and much to heavy to haul uphill. Today it is much easier to select your gear and I may add much lighter weight also.
Internal Frame packs are recent in origin. Before the internal frame pack there were the Trapper Nelson packs. The concept of a hipbelt to take the weight of the pack was virtually unknown.
The Trapper Nelson packs are still in use today by the oldtimers. Some may sneer at the metal tube internal packs but it is the popular choice for most packers today.
Once you have that internal frame pack ready to go, What do you load it with? In a world of rising expectations we strive harder for convienence and comfort. Weighty packs are a thing of the past once you know what to pack for your wilderness journey.
Certain types of gear and clothing are neccessities on any hiking or backpacking journey.
The weather can change in the blink of an eye. It is always best to be prepared for anything.
Which type of pants are best?
The debate rages over short pants versus long pants. The novice hiker usually opts for shorts but soon finds out that legs are literally unprotected from the elements. Long Pants provide protection from not only the elements but also mosquitos, thistle and poison oak. Long Pants made of lightweight,but durable cotton are favorable.
A lightweight fleece jacket is always preferable to bulkier heavier weight jackets. Fleece weighs next to nothing so it is easily stored or rolled.
Fleece is very warm and functional at higher altitudes. If not in use on the body it can be used as a pillow.
When hiking always following the layering principle of dressing. Layer on clothing that can easily be removed if the temperatures rise. Thin layers of clothing provide more options when layering and are easily packed when removed.
Remember this rule:
Thin layer next to the body: Heaviest layer on top.
Never leave home without your rain gear.
At higher altitudes rain storms can happen anytime. It is best to pack a rainsuit complete with rainpants and jacket with a hood. It is best to avoid breathable rainsuits. Chances are the breathable materials will leak or seep just enough to make you cold and miserable. Traditional raingear is preferable. Be sure to give your gear a waterproofing treatment before you hit the trails. This treatment will reinforce the waterproofing present making the materials stronger and less likely to leak.
Head coverings, such as hats, hoods, or scarves are essential to any hiker or bacpacker. Hats provide shelter from the sun and elements. Hats also help retain heat in the body when temperatures drop out at night. Many hats available today are easily packable and weigh in at less than an ounce. Waterproof treatments are necessary before your hike to ensure that you stay dry in the event of rain or snow.
First Aid Kits are most important, but also the first thing people forget to pack.
Your firat aid kit should contain many essential items that would help you provide emergency assistance in a pinch. Essential items are:
Sunburn ointment
Snake Bite kit
Moleskin and Molefoam ( for blisters)
Gauze Bandages
Small Scissors
Tweezers
Aspirin
Emergency Space Blanket
Triangle Bandage with pins
Sunscreen,Lip Balm, Lotion
Bug Repellant
Benadryl for allergic reaction and itching
Neosporin to prevent infection
Tums or Maalox for stomach upset
Immodium AD for Diarreah
Bandaids
First Aid Book
With the items listed above you should find a flexible carry case to pack these in. A Case that rolls up is the easiest and most practicle for your trip. This case will easily store in small areas and has inner pockets which prevent items from dislodging and becoming broken and unusable.
All maps and compasses should be contained in waterproof bags. These items should be stored in an accessible area of your pack so they are readily available.You should never set foot on the trail without these two items.
You should always have any packed item wrapped in plastic. If it rains, you are prepared already because it is next to impossible to stop in a downpour and wrap your items to keep them dry. Carry extra plastic bags. You can never have to many of these.
To many times we overlook the following items. These items are as important as your compass and map. Considered equally essential are the following:
Food: Lightweight dehydrated foods that are easily packed. Some favorites for energy are dried apples, trail mixes, mashed potatoes, and dehydrated soup mixes.
Stove for cooking and fuel
A plastic measuring cup: this item serves a double purpose: you can measure , and drink from it.
Water purifier: Today ones that are lightweight and hook to your belt are preferable. Always remember to take an extra filter. If you do not have this item, water purification tablets are a must.
Matches: I cannot stress enough the importance of matches. Matches start fires. Fires provide heat and are used for cooking. Fires allow you to boil drinking water. Fires also keep animals away from camps.
Be sure to store plenty of matches in waterproof bags or containers.
Toilet paper: Be sure to store in double plastic bags to prevent water from getting to it.
Sleeping bag: A synthetic filled bag will keep you toasty warm and is also very lightweight. Waterproofing is essential for you bag. be sure to check all seams and check for tears in your bag. Repairs should always be made before hitting the trail.
Tent: The smallest and lightest is not always the best choice. Determine your needs by weather conditions in the area of your hike. If you expect rain and gusting winds then go with a tent that has a fly that ties down in many places. Be sure to choose a tent that is durable enough to withstand the worst weather conditions.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, Paste, Shaving Gel, and Soap.
By double baggiing these items you can be sure they arrive safe and sound with you.
Pen and paper
Sunglasses
Rope:
Rope can be used for various repairs on tents. Rope is also used to tie your packs up in the trees away from nosey bears and racoons.
Extra Tent Stakes
Gussets and tools for repairs on tent.
Getting ready for a hike takes planning. The challenge comes when a person has to reduce their essentials to a size and weight they are comfortable carrying. Look over your gear. Is it feasible? Can you safely carry this weight uphill and on rough terrain. If not eliminate the non necessities.
Expect the unexpected, but do not go overboard.
Be prepared but do not pack the whole house.
If you follow the guideline given above you should be able to load you pack and have room left over and a lot less weight on your shoulders.
