Backpacker Magazine – Online Exclusive

Backpacking Basics

Take these 21 trail tips to heart, and you're virtually guaranteed a good hike.

by: The Backpacker Editors

1. Planning
Be stunned by the beautiful vista, not an uncrossable river. An hour of guidebook research and a phone call to the rangers can make all your surprises happy ones.

• Choose a destination within driving distance, so you can reschedule if bad weather threatens.
• Stick to well-marked routes with easy terrain, established campsites, and plentiful water.
• Plan on hiking no more than 5 to 7 miles a day.
• Learn when the bugs are biting, if you need permits, what weather to expect, and where you can find a post-trip beer.
• Let someone at home know your plans, and stick to your route so you'll be easy to find if necessary.

[Resource] The Basic Essentials of Backpacking, by Harry Roberts ($8)

2. Gear
Thanks to today's lightweight equipment, a backpack loaded with all your weekend supplies should weigh less than 35 pounds.

• Rent a tent. Many outfitters rent shelter, packs, and other gear. It cuts initial costs and lets you experiment before buying.
• Pamper your feet. Prevent blisters and other foot woes by getting lightweight boots that are slightly larger than your street shoes and matching them with wool hiking socks.
• Pare your threads. Pack clothes for a 24-hour period, on trail and in camp, and wear the same stuff all weekend. Throw in extra socks to keep your feet happy.
• Cook like a pro. Get a lightweight canister stove and one or two standard fuel canisters for a long weekend.
• Sleep like a baby. Bed down on a sleeping pad that's 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches thick, and with dimensions that don't leave your limbs dangling off the sides. Likewise your bag should match your frame--try it in the store--and should be rated at least 10°F warmer than the temperatures you expect.
• Go a little luxe. It's not a monastery out there. Sneak a luxury item into your pack: a deck of cards, a Lexan bottle of vino, a good book, or camera gear.

Subscribe to Backpacker magazine
Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter