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If you’re planning on taking a backpacking trip, there are some things you’ll need to learn. You’ll need to know how to prepare for your long, daily hikes, how to handle any atmospheric changes you may face, and how to deal with different climates you may face along the way. You also have to learn how to pack your backpack so everything you need will fit.
Hiking vacations are different from other vacations in that you’ll have to keep your things with you at all times of the trip. There is no hotel room to leave things in from day-to-day. And if you run into an emergency situation where you realize you forgot to pack something, there are no stores you can run to to pick it up. If you have any questions about what you should bring with you on your trip, you can consult your guide, or other members of your group who have been on a hiking vacation before.
There are items you will absolutely want to make sure you have with you. Weather-appropriate clothes are a must. This is not the time to be fancy. Pack comfortable clothes that will pack easily, and keep you comfortable along your hike. You can fold everything up into tight little bundles and pack them anywhere they’ll fit in your pack. Be sure to bring extra socks in case your feet get wet. Pack an extra pair of hiking boots so you’ll always have a dry pair to wear along the way.
Your sleeping bag will be your number one accessory to have with you on your trip. Pick one that will keep you warm on cool nights, cool on warm nights, fit you comfortably, and can easily be folded and packed, or strapped to your pack. Pack rain gear at the top of your pack so it’s easy to access. When packing your toiletries, add toilet paper as well. And don’t forget your water bottle.
