Backpacking Tips

By Xanthe Webb (August, 2008)

See Xan's Cross Country Backpacking article

1. PACK LIGHT! For longer trips, try to cut down on unnecessary weight. Unnecessary weight that can be avoided:

a. Don't pack cans of food - the cans weigh a lot; pack food already packaged in wrappers, etc.

b. As for liquids, carry enough water on you, attaching a Camelback - or the reservoir - to your pack is a good idea. But other than that - liquids weigh you down. Go with energy bars, not drinks. To restock on water- carry a filter- or purchase an attachable filter for your reservoir.

c. Watch the weather- nights will be cold almost anywhere you go, but if you have warm sleeping bags/mummy bags, you may not need a tent if there will be no moisture. If you do not bring a tent, it is still weight-efficient to pack some light tarps. One can be used to cover your packs, to avoid getting the morning dew all over, and a tarp to put under (or over if unexpected rain occurs) yourselves.

d. Pack just enough clothes. Really think about what you will need (layers, and a fresh pair of clothes or two depending on how long your trip is). Chances are, you might not care about changing clothing a lot.

2. MAKE SURE YOUR ROUTE IS MARKED OUT! If you are not on a designated trail, make sure you have a reliable map or a good GPS system. Just make sure you know the area pretty well and the surrounding escape routes.

Copyright Dave Webb, 2008