Top Essentials When Backpacking or Hiking For an Extended Stay
July 2, 2008
Backpacking and hiking are two of the most thrilling choices in outdoor activities. These sports are being chosen by more and more people every year as a means of relaxation and physical fitness. Even families are getting in to the backpacking and hiking action. But, for the newer backpacking or hiking person, there are a few items that are required to stay safe and secure while backpacking.
The suns rays. The sun can be very damaging to many parts of the body. When backpacking or hiking, the sun can be in contact with the skin and eyes the entire day spent walking. Sunscreen that is waterproof and of an SPF of 30 or more can provide just enough protection for the skin. The eyes, on the other hand, are the body parts left unprotected. Including a pair or two of sunglasses in every pack will help to make the trip easy to see and safer for the eyes.
Safety is a priority. Being safe is essential for any backpacking or hiking trip. Safety can be covered in many ways, but one that is often forgotten is the aspect of getting separated from the group. When a backpacking or hiking team member gets lost, a whistle can help. If backpacking and hiking in the winter, make sure to include a whistle that is made of plastic and that does not contain a “pea” that may freeze inside the whistle.
Bring lots of water. Water is one of the heaviest things you will pack into your bundle when backpacking or hiking, yet it is essential to life. When backpacking or hiking, it is always better to have more than you need and a filtration device is the best way to ensure a constant supply of water. In case of emergency, a filtration device designed for the outdoors can filter any water supply making it drinkable.
Bring the heat. A firestarter or waterproof matches are essential when backpacking or hiking. A fire will be needed for those backpacking or hiking trips that last overnight. But, even for the day trips, matches and / or a firestarter are needed if only as a safety precaution. Safety is the number one concern and it is always better to be safe than sorry when backpacking or hiking.
First aid first. A first aid kit should be prepared for every backpack used during the backpacking and hiking trip. If only one packer has access to a first aid kit, the other hikers will be unable to provide first aid in the case that the group loses touch with each other. A first aid kit should include a pocket knife and a set of pocket tools for everyone.
Don’t get lost. Getting lost is one of the worst feelings of all time. A compass and a map can help to keep all backpacking and hiking team members on the right trail throughout the trip. These two essentials are the ones that are forgotten a lot of times when packing the bundles for the trip. Every member of the backpacking and hiking team should have access to a compass and map.
Choosing backpacking or hiking as a sport is a great choice and a fun choice, especially when friends and family come along for the hike. When new to the sport, it is important to keep all of these items in every pack in order to keep the team safe and productive during the backpacking or hiking trip.
Why Backpacking?
June 12, 2008
by Joseph ThenLet me ask you a simple question. Have you ever thought of backpacking? Well, if you have been thinking of the adventure and fun you will have while backpacking, then you are at the right place. This article will offer tell you why you should backpack.
Firstly, we have to understand what backpacking is. Backpacking is a form of low-cost travel. In other words, backpacking is a way where you can travel around without using too much cash. But, you have to give up on luxuries like five star hotels and shopping.
If you are thinking of going backpacking but cannot find a friend at home who’ll come with you, why don’t you go on your own? Let me tell you why you should.
One thing for sure; you won’t be alone for long. When you travel alone it does not mean it has to be a lonely trip. Here is the first tip on making friends while traveling.
Some people go backpacking because they want to learn new things and experience
a different lifestyle. Some go because they want to bring home a whole new
perspective of life.
From experience, I think that the easiest and most efficient way to make friends is by taking part in group activities like scuba diving or riding ATVs. If you are staying in a hostel, I am sure there are people around who travel in groups. Why don’t you just ask with a smile if you can join them?
Do you have a hectic and busy life? Well, here is a good reason you can get out of it. Take a break; go backpacking. Leave all your problems at home and travel.
If you are serious about your boy/girlfriend, you should probably take a time out with them before you leave. Another way to deal with it is to come up with some ground rules about what’s acceptable while you are apart from each other.
Making the decision to travel solo is a great step, but it’s important to know what it is you actually want to do while traveling.
If you think that you don’t know what you are doing, you should do some research about the countries you are going to before setting off? The other thing you should remember is that you also should learn how to manage you money well. The best suggestion I can give you is that you should take some pointer on managing your money.
Dealing with unfamiliar things around you can be overwhelming. But, the learning experience you get from backpacking cannot be bought with any amount of money.
It always helps to carry a guide book around so that you can figure your way around. Well, if you are thinking that ou will get home sick trust me, the first week will be difficult but after that, you’ll be enjoying your adventure.
Some people go backpacking because they want to learn new things and experience a different lifestyle. Some go because they want to bring home a whole new perspective of life.
How? You should try to participate in as much activities as you can while you are in another country. And the last tip I can give you is that you should learn as much as you can about the culture of the people in the country.
Now that you are armed with this knowledge, I am sure you will be confident enough to set off into this learning experience on your own.
