Since then, I’ve backpacked more than 1,000 miles on some of the most iconic and remote trails in the US, and I’ve accumulated all of the beginner backpacking tips I wish I knew when I was learning how to backpack.<\/p>\n
So in this backpacking for beginner’s guide, I’m going to teach you the basics of how to start backpacking. You’ll learn all about everything involved with planning a backpacking trip like choosing a trail, the gear you need, backpacking food, safety, and more. <\/p>\n
My goal is to help you feel more organized, confident, and less overwhelmed as you get ready for your backpacking adventure.<\/p>\n
Choosing a Destination<\/h2>\nPick the dates for your backpacking trip<\/h3>\n
The dates for your backpacking trip will dictate where you can go due to the weather. Good weather makes backpacking much easier, and that’s what we are shooting for on your first backpacking trip. <\/p>\n
- \n
- <\/span>Backpacking in the Summer<\/strong>: Typically, mid-July to late-September is ideal for planning a backpacking trip to the mountains. Too early in the summer or late in the fall, you may encounter snow, which poses challenges that you probably won’t be ready for as a beginner backpacker. Bugs are typically worse early in summer as well.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Backpacking in the Spring or Fall <\/strong>: If you want to go in spring or fall when the mountains aren’t an option, backpacking in the desert<\/a> is a good choice. You should avoid the desert in summer due to scorching temperatures and lack of shade. If your first backpacking trip is to the desert, you’ll want to be especially aware of water availability.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Backpacking in Winter<\/strong>: There are very few places that you’ll be able to safely and comfortably backpack in the winter as a beginner. For that reason, I’d avoid winter and use that time to focus on getting in shape for backpacking (more on that later).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
Once you’ve decided on the season you want to backpack in, you can narrow down the specific area you want to visit.<\/p>\n
\n![\"Get](\"https:\/\/researcherswhigs.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/DSC04869-2.jpg\")
Hiking the West Rim Trail<\/a> in Zion National Park in late Spring<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Pick a Trail<\/h3>\n
As a beginner backpacker, plan a trip for 1-2 nights on an easy trail to get some good experience under your belt. Shorter, easier trips are a great way to get comfortable carrying your pack, setting up your gear, and learning the ropes without overextending yourself.<\/p>\n
To find a trail, use one of the popular trail finder apps<\/a>, read your favorite outdoor blogs, buy a trail book for the region you’re interested in, or do a google search for “best backpacking trails in ….”<\/p>\n
Here are a few things you should look for when choosing a trail for your first time backpacking: <\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Distance<\/strong>: A good goal for beginner backpackers is 5-7 miles a day, especially if you aren\u2019t used to carrying a lot of weight when you hike. Shorter distances will allow you time to stop and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or stressed. When I backpack, it takes me about 40 minutes on average to cover 1 mile, so it’s a lot slower than a normal waking pace. So a 7-mile day would require just over 4.5 hours of hiking.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Elevation Gain<\/strong>: For your first trip, I’d choose a trail with less than 500-1,000 feet of elevation gain per day, depending on how much hiking experience you have. That might not seem like a lot, but steep trails feel a lot harder with a heavier pack on.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Terrain<\/strong>: Stick to well-marked, well-defined trails to minimize your chance of getting lost. There’s no need to be scrambling, route-finding, or boulder-hopping when you’re learning how to backpack. Also avoid trails with major river crossings. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Campsite Options: <\/strong>Ideally you want to choose a trail that offers campsites near a lake or stream. That way you don’t have to worry about water availability for drinking and cooking.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Dog-friendliness<\/strong>: Bringing a dog backpacking requires extra preparations. You’ll also be carrying more weight due to dog food and extra water. For that reason, I might suggest leaving your pup at home for your first backpacking trip. However, if you are set on bringing them, make sure the trail allows dogs and check out my tips for backpacking with a dog<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n\n\n\n<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\nNeed a few trip ideas? <\/strong>Check out all of the backpacking trips I’ve written about here<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Check permit requirements<\/h3>\n
After you\u2019ve chosen where and when you\u2019re going backpacking, check to see if a permit is required. <\/p>\n
Many trails, especially popular trails in National Parks, require wilderness permits that need to be reserved months in advance. If this is the case, it’s best to have some wiggle room in your trip dates in case your dates are already full.<\/p>\n
In some cases, a number of permits are held on a first-come, first-serve basis but for popular trails and dates such as weekends, you’ll need to arrive before the ranger station opens and should have a backup plan in case you’re not able to get a permit.<\/p>\n
Depending on where you are backpacking, your permit may have additional requirements. For instance, if you are traveling in bear country (Sierra Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, etc), you may be required to carry your food and scented items in a bear-proof container or bag<\/a>. Or on popular trails, you might be required to pack out your poop in wag bags. <\/p>\n
\n![\"Kristen](\"https:\/\/researcherswhigs.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sequoia-Backpacking.jpg\")
Many backpacking trips – like this one in Sequoia National Park<\/a> – require advanced permits<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Plan your transportation<\/h3>\n
Transportation depends largely on what kind of trail you\u2019re doing, and whether you are backpacking solo or going with a group. Look at a topographic map to find the trailhead and designated parking areas.<\/p>\n
If you are hiking a loop trail or an out-and-back, you won\u2019t need an additional car. However, if you\u2019ve chosen to hike point-to-point, you\u2019ll have to drop a second car off at the other end of the trail before beginning your hike or arrange for a shuttle service.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n\n\n<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\nRead next:<\/strong> Use this step-by-step guide to planning a successful backpacking trip<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What Gear to Bring Backpacking<\/h2>\n
Backpacking gear can be expensive. If you’re committed and are confident this is going to be your first backpacking trip of many, I’d encourage you to invest in quality, lightweight gear from the get-go. Lighter gear is going to make your trip more enjoyable, and you’d hate to buy heavier gear only to replace it after a few trips.<\/p>\n
Backpacking Essentials<\/h3>\n
The most important beginner backpacking tips tend to revolve around gear. It’s so easy to overpack and end up with a crazy heavy pack that leaves you wondering why on earth you decided to start backpacking. On the other hand, you also don’t want to forget any important backpacking essentials that can make or break your trip.<\/p>\n
For a full run-down on the backpacking gear you need, start with my 3-day backpacking checklist<\/a>. That list has the gear I actually use on every single trip and you can refer to it to make sure you don’t forget anything. <\/p>\n
However, some of that gear I mention in that post is quite expensive for a beginner backpacker, so I’m recommending some more budget-friendly backpacking essentials here:<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Backpacking Pack<\/strong>: A pack that doesn’t fit right can be really painful and ruin your adventure, so a properly-fitting backpack is critical for your first backpacking trip. A 50-60 liter pack should easily fit all of the gear you need for a 1-2 night trip, and is also big enough for longer trips down the road. I recommend the REI Flash 55<\/a> or the Deuter Aircontact packs<\/a>, which are both budget-friendly.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Backpacking Tent<\/strong>: DO NOT bring your normal car camping tent. Car camping tents are a lot heavier than backpacking tents and will weigh you down. If you are backpacking with another person, you’ll want a 2-person tent that has a minimum trail weight (which includes the tent body, poles, and rainfly) of less than 4 pounds. Generally, the lighter the tent, the more expensive it will be (the same applies for most backpacking gear). The REI Half Dome SL2+<\/a> offers a good balance between weight and price.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Sleeping Pad<\/strong>: Now a sleeping pad is something you don’t want to skimp on. Your sleeping pad provides both cushion and insulation, and if you sleep horribly, you probably won’t want to backpack again. Avoid foam sleeping pads that offer very little cushion, and instead choose a lightweight inflatable sleeping pad. I personally used the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus<\/a> for years. It’s not the lightest on the market, but I find it to be relatively comfortable at a lower price point.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Sleeping Bag<\/strong>: Down sleeping bags are lighter and offer more warmth for their weight than sleeping bags with synthetic insulation, and you should try to find a bag that weighs less than 3 pounds. Generally, a 15-degree bag should suffice for almost any summer backpacking trip, but as a rule of thumb, you should choose a temperature rating that’s at least 15 degrees colder than you expect the temperature to be at night. I usually use an Enlightened Equipment Quilt<\/a>, because it’s light, comfortable, and compresses really small. For a more budget-friendly (but heavier) option, try the Kelty Cosmic 20<\/a>. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Stove<\/strong>: Having a lightweight backpacking stove allows you to stay fueled with hot meals and beverages rather than subsisting on energy bars alone. It’s easiest to rely on backpacker meals instead of cooking from scratch. In that case, all you need to do in boil water, and the Jetboil stove<\/a> is the easiest and most beginner-friendly to use. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Headlamp<\/strong>: A headlamp<\/a> is a lot easier to use than a flashlight since it allows you to be hands-free. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Trekking Poles<\/strong>: Trekking poles<\/a> are essential for beginner backpackers. It\u2019s a great tool for staying balanced, taking pressure off your knees, and keeping a good pace on varied terrain. Plus, most are easily attached to your pack, so you can stash them when you need to. <\/span><\/span>Need convincing? Here’s all the benefits of using trekking poles<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Water Filter<\/strong>: Drinking water straight from streams can give you giardia. Not a fun way to end your first backpacking trip! You should bring a water filter<\/a> and make sure you know how to use it. For the easiest cheapest solution, bring some purification drops<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>The 10 Essentials<\/strong>: The 10 Essentials<\/a> are a tried and true list of the top ten things you\u2019ll want to carry with you, covering everything from food and water to navigation tools, first aid<\/a>, and other safety items.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
For more recommendations and some of my favorite backpacking gear over the years, check out the posts below<\/p>\n
\n\n\n\nRead More<\/h5>\n
Backpacking Gear Guides<\/h3>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Tents<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Backpacks<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Water Filters<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat to do if you can’t afford new backpacking gear<\/h3>\n
If you simply can’t afford an entirely new backpacking kit, here are a few suggestions on how to acquire your backpacking gear without spending an arm and a leg:<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Rent it<\/strong>: REI, local gear shops, and university recreation programs often rent backpacking gear. This is a great way to try it before committing<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Borrow it<\/strong>: Got outdoorsy friends? See if they have some gear to lend you<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Buy used<\/strong>: Check Facebook Marketplace, local used gear shops, ebay, or the used site called Gear Trade<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Buy on sale or at discounted retailers<\/strong>: Many outdoor retailers have big sales around Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and Black Friday. If you know what you need ahead of time, you can wait and try to score things on sale. There are also some discount gear sites<\/a> to check out.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"Get](\"https:\/\/researcherswhigs.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/70-WEST-RIM-TRAIL-BACKPACKING-GUIDE-1.jpg\")
Backpacking in Zion National Park<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n What to Wear Backpacking<\/h2>\n
What to wear backpacking looks a lot like what to wear hiking<\/a>. For beginner backpackers, investing in a few good-quality basics that will last you a long time is key to being comfortable on the trail.<\/p>\n
Here’s a few backpacking clothing tips for beginners:<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Avoid Cotton<\/strong>: Cotton takes forever to dry and can get really smelly sweating in it day after day. It can also cause chafing and stretch out over time.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Choose moisture-wicking fabrics<\/strong>: You want lightweight, breathable clothing that will wick sweat away from your body and dry quickly. My favorite sun protection hiking shirt<\/a> is the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Long Sleeve shirt<\/a>. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Cover up your skin<\/strong>: The more of your skin you cover up, the less sunscreen and bug spray you have to apply. Also, too much sun exposure can make you more prone to dehydration and heat exhaustion. I always wear a Buff<\/a> around my neck and a sun hat<\/a> too. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Bring versatile layers<\/strong>: You should bring pieces that you can layer while you’re hiking or at night at camp, so you don’t have to bring a bunch of separate outfits. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Prepare for unexpected weather<\/strong>: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, and even in the desert, nights can be chilly. You will want to pack a synethtic insulated jacket with a hood<\/a> and rain gear<\/a>. Make sure your rain jacket has pit zips too so it get good air flow in case you have to hike in it.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Wear wool socks<\/strong>: Cotton socks cause blisters. Darn Tough<\/a> are my favorite hiking socks. They don’t shift around on your feet, and you can wear them for several days without them stinking.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Invest in quality hiking shoes<\/strong>: While many experienced backpackers will hike in trail runners, for first-time backpackers, I recommend a boot that offers mid to high ankle support, adequate cushion and is relatively light (you don’t need mountaineering boots which tend to be extra heavy). Having ankle support will provide more stability on rocky terrain, especially with a heavy load on your back. I personally wear Oboz Footwear<\/a>. The Oboz Bridger Bdry Mid is extremely popular for backpacking.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Don’t overpack<\/strong>: Clothes are so easy to overpack and will quickly add weight to your load. For a 1-2 night trip, you only need 2 shirts, 1 shorts, 1 pants, 2 underwear, 2 socks, 1 mid-layer, 1 warm jacket, rain jacket, and rain pants. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Bring camp sandals<\/strong>: It’s so nice having a lightweight pair of sandals to change into at camp to let your feet air out. Choose a pair that you can wear socks with when it gets cold at night.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
For a full list of the clothing I bring backpacking, see my 3-day backpacking checklist<\/a> and the posts linked to below.<\/p>\n
![\"Get](\"https:\/\/researcherswhigs.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/California_Trans-Catalina-Trail-Backpacking-90-Day-4-Emerald-Bay-Gear.jpg\")
This is what I typically wear backpacking (swap shorts for pants when it’s cold)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n \n\n\n\nRead More<\/h5>\n
Backpacking Clothing Guides<\/h3>\n
- <\/span>Choose moisture-wicking fabrics<\/strong>: You want lightweight, breathable clothing that will wick sweat away from your body and dry quickly. My favorite sun protection hiking shirt<\/a> is the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Long Sleeve shirt<\/a>. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Borrow it<\/strong>: Got outdoorsy friends? See if they have some gear to lend you<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Backpacking Tent<\/strong>: DO NOT bring your normal car camping tent. Car camping tents are a lot heavier than backpacking tents and will weigh you down. If you are backpacking with another person, you’ll want a 2-person tent that has a minimum trail weight (which includes the tent body, poles, and rainfly) of less than 4 pounds. Generally, the lighter the tent, the more expensive it will be (the same applies for most backpacking gear). The REI Half Dome SL2+<\/a> offers a good balance between weight and price.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Elevation Gain<\/strong>: For your first trip, I’d choose a trail with less than 500-1,000 feet of elevation gain per day, depending on how much hiking experience you have. That might not seem like a lot, but steep trails feel a lot harder with a heavier pack on.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Backpacking in the Spring or Fall <\/strong>: If you want to go in spring or fall when the mountains aren’t an option, backpacking in the desert<\/a> is a good choice. You should avoid the desert in summer due to scorching temperatures and lack of shade. If your first backpacking trip is to the desert, you’ll want to be especially aware of water availability.<\/span><\/li>\n