Skip to content
Facebook-f Twitter Instagram Tiktok
Advertise With Us
Search
Close
  • Fitness
  • Health
  • Recreation
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Digital Issues
  • More
    • About CompassOhio
    • Pick Up a Copy
    • Giveaway Rules
    • Contact
Menu
  • Fitness
  • Health
  • Recreation
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Digital Issues
  • More
    • About CompassOhio
    • Pick Up a Copy
    • Giveaway Rules
    • Contact

A Beginner’s Guide to the Right Gear for Successful Backpacking

By Trish Mann

Are you an occasional day hiker, but want to take your trek to the next level and start backpacking, but you aren't sure what gear you need? After diligent research, we have composed a list of the basics needed to start your next exciting trek into nature. With the proper gear and planning, your only regret will be, "Why didn't I start backpacking sooner?"

Are you  an occasional day hiker, but want to take your trek to the next level and start backpacking, but you aren’t ‌sure what gear you need?

After diligent research, we have composed a list of the basics needed to start your next exciting trek into nature. With the proper gear and planning, your only regret will be, “Why didn’t I start backpacking sooner?”

Tent

Your tent is more than a place to sleep, it also serves as shelter. The first thing to consider is size; how many people does it need to sleep and what is its weight? It should be lightweight, free standing, size appropriate and suitable for the weather you plan on hiking in. Clever Hiker provides a list of the best budget friendly tents available.

Backpack

A proper fitting backpack is essential! Make sure it fits properly on your hips and shoulders, has adjustable straps and suits your frame. A good retailer will measure your back for fit.

Look for one with a breathable back panel and plenty of gear storage. For more in-depth information on getting the right backpack, check out  Backcountry.com.

Sleeping Gear

When choosing your sleeping bag, consider temperature rating and insulation type. For the budget friendly, synthetic is less expensive than down. However, down lasts longer and provides more warmth. REI breaks down additional factors to consider when purchasing your bag.

A sleeping pad is key to a good night’s sleep. Choices are air, self inflating and closed cell form.

Clothes/Shoes

When choosing footwear, a proper fitting pair of quality hiking boots is crucial. Break them in before hitting the trails and make sure they are lightweight and waterproof.

Avoid cotton clothing, including socks. Cotton is highly absorbent, making it heavy. It is slow drying and once it is wet, it loses insulation properties. Synthetics and clothes with wicking material are the best choice. Remember to plan for swings in temperatures.

Gear

  • Watertight first aid kit
  • Compass/Safety app (see last week’s blog)
  • Headlamp with batteries
  • Water filter
  • Sunscreen/bug repellent
  • Matches
  • Rain Coat
  • Cooking gear/food
  • Firestarters

Do not neglect the details.

A backpacking trek is challenging, but with a little planning, it is a rewarding adventure.

Sleeping to the sounds of the nightlife and waking up to the sunrise, as the world comes alive around you is a magic few in this world get to experience. What are you waiting for?

Share this:
Facebook
Twitter
Email

Blog Powered By

What to Read Next

Photo By: Allan Mas Pexels

Reach New and Exciting Heights at Your Local Indoor Rock Climbing Gym

By Trish Mann

The benefits of Indoor Rock Climbing go beyond the physical. Studies have further shown a direct link to improvement in memory function and relief from some symptoms of depression.
Read More

How one guy is empowering, loving, and inspiring individuals through fitness.

By Candy S. Collins

Chris Downing has been making waves in Stark County with his new fitness program, Over.The.Edge. Learn how this world-class fitness instructor has turned a vision into reality!
Read More

Join Me, and Let’s Make a Forest

By Trish Mann

Trees are a sustainer of life, and how better to give back to the world and the blessings of nature than to provide nourishment to something that lives its life for others?
Read More
All Blog Posts

Articles

  • Health
  • Fitness
  • Recreation
  • All Articles

Events

  • View Events

Blog

  • View Posts

MoRe

  • About
  • Print Issues
  • Digital Issues
  • Giveaway Rules
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Name
MM slash DD slash YYYY
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • Compass Media LLC
  • sales@compassohio.com

Connect with Us

Facebook-f Twitter Instagram Tiktok
© 2023 Compass Media LLC