How to Plan Your First-Ever Backpacking Trip

Tips for Backpacking Beginners

It is never too early or too late to start planning your first ever backpacking trip! Even if you've never backpacked before, these tips will help you stay safe and have a great time.

Choose the right backpacking pack 

To ensure a pleasant, pain-free adventure, you'll need a well-fitted backpack to carry your food and gear. There are many things to consider when choosing a pack, including volume, size, ventilation, access points and add-ons. 

While some people swear by certain brands, pack preferences depend on body size and other individual requirements. Read up on how to choose the right backpack for your unique needs so that you can have a comfortable trip.

Here is fun tip on volume size (most backpacks are volume-based on liters). One liter is about the size of a can of beer (generally speaking). A 24 pack of beer (or your beverage of chose), is about 24 liters of volume. 

Avoid common beginner backpacking mistakes

While it isn't rocket science, backpacking does require some thoughtful planning. It's very common for beginners to make mistakes that can put them in danger or make their trip unpleasant. 

From forgetting to bring sunscreen to failing to check the weather, there are certain backpacking mistakes every beginner makes. Familiarize yourself with these common pitfalls so that you can avoid them before your first trip. 

Mind your feet! Make sure you have sturdy and properly fitted hiking shoes (and bring a blister kit just in case) and hiking socks. We'd recommend get a sock liner as well, they work like magic to avoid blisters.

Get in shape for longer hikes

When you're first starting out, it's essential to make sure you are physically ready for a backpacking adventure. In the weeks leading up to your outing, start with short, easy hikes until you get used to carrying a heavy backpack. 

It's also important to choose a relatively easy route for your first trip. If you bite off more than you can chew, you may find yourself exhausted within minutes of hitting the trail.

This also help to break in those new hiking shoes, too.

Choose the right trails

There are so many gorgeous backpacking trails, and it can be hard to settle on just one. 

Apps like onX Backcountry or AllTrails can help narrow down the local areas you want to explore. Be sure to pay attention to difficulty ratings and local regulations on where you can camp and whether fires are allowed. 

See our Top 10 Favorite Backcountry Apps here>

Pack lightweight fuel for your backpacking trip

Since backpacking takes a lot of energy, you'll need to bring plenty of food. While you're out on the trail, freeze-dried and dehydrated foods will keep your pack light and leave room for other essential items. 

When you're out in the wilderness, it's nice to have hearty comfort food that's delicious and nourishing. Backpacker's Pantry provides a diverse assortment of gourmet freeze-dried meals that provide lots of healthy calories without sacrificing taste.

Want to know how many calories you can expect to burn on a backpacking trip? Use our hiking calories calculator here> 

Respect the land 

If you're new to backpacking, you may not have heard the phrase "leave no trace." This simple term merely refers to enjoying the outdoors without making an impact on the environment. 

Familiarize yourself with leave-no-trace concepts, so you can learn how to appreciate nature without negatively affecting the landscape and wildlife. 

Stay safe while backpacking

Since you will be miles from civilization, prioritize safety while you're out on the trail: 

• Know how to create a first-aid kit
  
• Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen to avoid painful burns
  
• Always tell someone where you are going and when they can expect you back 
  
• Research wildlife safety tips
  
• Take extra safety precautions if you plan to backpack alone
  
• Bring a BearVault and bear spray

Backpacker's Pantry provides lightweight, gourmet backpacking food for outdoor enthusiasts of every level and background. Browse our convenient, nutritious food for the trail.

And enjoy the view!