How to plan a backpacking trip.

Knowing how to plan a backpacking trip can seem to be a challenge but is really not that hard once you know what you need to look for. Maybe this is your first time and you don't know what to expect or maybe it has been a while since you have been on the trail and just need a refresher. Either way we have the information that you need. Backpacking can be a very rewarding experience if planned right, if not, then it could turn into a disaster. So let's plan right and ensure a successful hike.

First thing you need to do when you plan a backpacking trip is figure out exactly where you are going and which trail you are taking. Be careful at this stage since picking the wrong trail will ruin the hike. We know from experience. Our first hike was definitely the wrong trail. You obviously know what area you want to go to so all you need to do is pick out the right trail. A lot of this is going to depend on your experience and your physical conditioning.

If you are a beginner then take a look at the trail ratings. You will want to look for a trail marked easy or if you are in good physical condition then maybe a trail marked moderate. Once you know the rating take a look at the description of the trail. This is important when you plan a backpacking trip, you are looking for how much water there is and the amount of hills and the grade of the hills.

When you plan a backpacking trip and you are a beginner, make sure there is water on the trail, I recommend no more than 4-5 miles apart. Water is heavy and carrying too much on the first hike can hurt. You will have enough things to figure out besides how to carry all that weight.

Next step is to take a look at a topo map and figure out where the trail is on the map and some reference points that you can use while you are on the trail. Reference points are things like peaks, rivers, streams and such. That will let you know exactly where you are on the trail. Know all these before you go on the trail.

Another reason for looking at the map is to figure out backup trails that tie into the trail that you are on. Keep these options on the table at all times just in case you decide you can't finish the trail then you can always take another shorter trail back to your car. Again all the things need to be looked at as far as trail rating and water.

Another tip to use when you plan a backpacking trip is to use a compass on the map and get your directional bearing before you go. You will need to have your direction down before you start. Knowing how to read a compass is a must and the basics should be in your head before you start.

Next plan on what to take backpacking. Taking the right gear makes all the difference. Go as light as you can and you will enjoy the hike to the fullest.. At the very least take a look at the backpacking essential list to make sure you don't forget anything. By going as light as you can does not mean spending a ton of money on equipment. Just eliminate what you can with the equipment that you have on hand. If you need new equipment then take a serious look at lightweight gear.

One secret, most Eastern Mountain Sports and REI stores will rent all the equipment that you need if you have one of those in your area. Also check with you local sports store, it never hurts to ask.

Make sure all your gear is in working condition while you are planning a hike and know how to use it

A note: Some people recommend eliminating some of the gear if you have a partner. Things like a survival knife, survival kit, first aid kit and so on. I don't. If you watch the news, most hikers that become lost got lost because they got separated from the group. Now what if that person was the one without the survival gear, first aid kit, water filter and all the stuff you need to survive. His or her life is now on your head. Each hiker should take there own gear.

Now take a look at your food situation when planning a backpacking trip. You will need to keep in mind that you will burn a lot of calories when you do a hike. Food planning can be time consuming to say the least. You will need to plan each and every meal amongst other things like; will we even cook on the trail, will we use freeze dried meals like Mountain House or Mary Janes, how many meals will we eat and so on.

Look at every aspect of the food planning and decide amongst yourselves. This needs to be decided by all or else you will have a grumpy partner. Also check for any food allergies with any of your partners. We eat one hot meal per day usually and a lot of snacks with a lot of protein. Essential for energy.

While you plan a backpacking trip you also need to be looking at packing your backpack. There are certain ways to pack a backpack to get the maximum comfort out of them. Packing them wrong can also ruin your hike. You can get pinching between the shoulder blades, sore lower back and other things.

Once you have all that figured out you will need to check with the local agencies at the trail to see if you need permits. You don't want to show up at the trail head only to find out that you can't go. Most permits will need to be purchased ahead of time.

Check local regulations with the parks you are going to when you plan a backpacking trip. You will need to know if you need a bear-proof container, what kind of fire you can build if any, etc.

Tip: Check for local hunting seasons. Getting shot has a tendency to ruin a hike. Wear a blaze orange vest and duct tape orange on the back of your pack.

Make sure you have all the clothing you need. Getting cold out on the trail is not a lot of fun and can be downright dangerous. Double check everything and take an extra layer. Mother nature can change her mind in a hurry.

Make a detailed itinerary and leave it with a couple of people including the local ranger station if there is one. Include your route, inventory, what trail you will be on and your backup trails and when you plan on returning.

That's all there is to How to plan a backpacking trip. I know it is a lot but after the first hike things get a lot easier. You know what to look for and you will do it in half the time. Take you time planning your backpacking trip since that is what makes the hike turn out successful.

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