How to Start Backpacking in 5 Simple Steps
If this sounds familiar, it’s because this is from my YouTube video on this topic, but I wanted to share it in blog form for those who prefer that. I will link to videos, including the one with this script, so you can find more information to help you.
If you have wanted to go for your first backpacking trip, but have been overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, this guide will help keep it simple and get you out on the trail.
Gear
Click here for a video with a packing list.
What do you already have? It doesn’t have to be perfect, just enough to get you out there safely. Look at temperature ratings of your sleep system (sleeping bag or quilt and sleeping pad), and plan accordingly. Be aware that most sleeping bag ratings are about 15-20°F/7-9°C lower than the actual comfort rating, so if you have a 32°F/0°C bag, take it on a trip where you don’t expect temps to get below 50°F/10°C. I have more information about choosing a sleeping bag or quilt here, and a playlist to help you nail your sleep system here.
What can you borrow? Do you have any friends or family who camp or backpack?
What can you rent? Tents, bear cans, backpacks, sleeping bags, and more can be rented in many places. There are websites that rent gear, and some REI stores rent gear as well. This is especially wise while you’re still figuring out of backpacking is your jam.
Look for secondhand items on Craigslist, FaceBook Marketplace, in thrift shops, at yard sales, or REI Re/Supply items. (I have lots of other tips for saving money on gear here.) One thing I have found is great about this is that when it’s time to upgrade, you may be able to sell that item for the same amount or sometimes more than you paid for it. You may also be able to get better gear for less, and usually, experienced backpackers take very good care of items and may be selling something in nearly new condition.
Consider camping in a campground with all your gear to do a trial run first so you can test everything before you’re trying it out on tired legs and mentally exhausted. Pack your backpack, do your meals, do everything as you would if you were packing for a backpacking trip, but with the safety of your vehicle (and a camp host and other resources) nearby. At a minimum, set up your tent at least once at home before your trip.
Planning:
Keep it simple. It doesn’t have to be a 6-month thru hike, or 3 states away, or doing 20 mile days. Ideally, choose somewhere familiar, where you have already day hiked that’s close to home.
Choose a short, easy, well-marked route, with the same entry and exit point. One mile (or even less) each way still counts! Getting out there is what matters. Avoid sketchy terrain, water crossings and other obstacles that add unnecessary challenges to your first trip.
Plan for a location type that’s comfortable, whether it’s remote, an established hike-in campground or a busy well-known trail.
Do you want to go solo or with others? Is there someone you trust who is already experienced and is willing to take you?
Choose a location where there a reliable water source, and have a way to filter or treat your water. Test your water treatment method at home before your trip. If norovirus is present where you’re headed, take a method to sterilize your water. This video will explain the difference and what options you have for filtering and treating water.
Weather- it’s okay to be a fairweather backpacker, especially when you’re starting out! If you have a trip planned, and the forecast is calling for snow and lightning, or even rain and/or wind, it’s okay to reschedule. This is supposed to be FUN!
Do you need any permits or reservations? Check on the official website for the location you’re planning to visit to be sure you have your ducks in a row.
Monitor current conditions online as it gets close to your trip. Some places will have more up-to-date conditions and reports than others. If in doubt, call the ranger station a day or two before to check in, and let them know this will be your first trip.
Food:
Keep it simple. You don’t have to get crazy creative on this first go-round.
You can buy freeze-dried meals, but always try them first at home before your trip so you aren’t stuck with food you hate.
If you have the gear, you can dehydrate your own meals, but this is not necessary. If you have an air fryer with a dehydrate option, this can be a great gateway into dehydrating your own foods. You can throw some leftovers in and then take them in a Ziplock bag for your trip, knowing you have food you like. You can search online for tips for how long to dehydrate any given meal.
Look for freeze-dried ingredients and snacks at store if you want to try putting together your own meals. Trader Joe’s, dollar stores, and frankly, most stores these days have many freeze-dried ingredients. I have even purchased vegetable mixes to add to other meals.
Take 1-2 extra meals or snacks just in case you end up out longer than planned.
Here are some easy meal, snack and ingredient ideas:
Oatmeal, either packets or homemade
Ramen
Graham crackers or a tortilla with peanut butter
Salami sticks (look for shelf-stable options)
Meat sticks or jerky
Dried fruit
Mac and cheese (take powdered milk)
Cereal
Meal/snack bars
Safety:
Know the rules and regulations where you’re going. These will generally be available on the official website, and often at the trailhead as well.
Find out what animals are there and what precautions are needed. (ie. rodents, bears, etc.) I have some guidance for sharing nature with wildlife here.
Do some training hikes with weight in your pack; consider some strength training specific to hiking. Chase Mountains has an awesome channel dedicated to this. Balance work, squats, lunges, and calf exercises are a few examples.
Always carry the 10 Essentials of Hiking, even on day hikes. I have a video with more detailed information about that, but the 10 Essentials are:
Navigation
Lighting
Sun protection
First aid kit
Knife/repair kit/multitool
Fire
Shelter
Food
Water & treatment
Insulation
Hand sanitation is crucial. Hand gels are good, but won’t kill some bugs, like norovirus, which often runs rampant on popular long trails like the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. Take soap to properly wash your hands with soap and treated water as needed.
Communication- leave a detailed itinerary with someone you know (even if they’re not local to you) with when they should be concerned. This video will spell out what should be included in your itinerary.
Waste Disposal & Leave No Trace:
Pack it in, pack it out, including any and all food waste (including leftovers, fruit peels, coffee grounds, etc.). All trash should be stored with your food.
For human waste, will you need to dig a cat hole, or is there a toilet? Be sure to take what you need to cover #1 & #2 properly. Pack out any toilet paper or wipes used. I know this can seem gross to someone who isn’t used to doing this, but a designated Ziplock bag works great. Some people cover theirs with duct tape so you can’t see what’s inside. Some may disagree, but I will argue that this does NOT need to be (and IMO, shouldn’t be) stored with your food.
I have two playlists that will help in this area. One on Leave No Trace, and another about human waste. You can also check out the official Leave No Trace website here.
Now, get out there, and let me know how it went! Happy hiking!
