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Your Complete Backpacking Checklist

Your Complete Backpacking Checklist

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 When we pack up a bag and head off the trail, we get to experience nature the way it was meant to be — pure, unspoiled and awe-inspiring. At the same time, going off-grid means limiting access to things like medical care, emergency services, food and water. But, like anything in life, backpacking is a game of preparation. If you’ve got the right safety gear — and the right knowledge — you’ll be in for the experience of a lifetime. Here’s everything you need to do, know and pack before heading out for a long backpacking journey.

What to Do Before a Backpacking Trip

Thankfully, backpacking fatalities are not common. But that doesn’t mean that your risk is zero. There are many threats you’ll face on your journey, including potentially dangerous wildlife, foul weather, rough terrain and a lack of food or water. But if you master the art of hiking preparation before you head out, you’ll be in a much better position to handle these threats, should they arise, like a champ.

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Backpacking Trip Checklist

Here’s a general list covering what to pack for a backpacking trip. While this list can serve as a great reference or starting point, you need to tailor it to your unique environment, needs and, most importantly, the season. Of course, if you’re hiking to higher elevations or during the cooler months, you’ll need to prepare by packing more layers. Wet climates will require full-body rain gear and possibly a groundcover, such as a tarp. With that said, the following items are a great starting point.

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Staying Safe On (Or Off) the Trail

Backpacking is an activity that forces us to open up our eyes, ears and hearts so we can take in everything around us. The tradeoff is that it is one that puts normal comforts, including emergency care, out of reach. The last thing you want is to put yourself in danger or face an emergency scenario, but as long as you follow the above tips and pack the right gear, you’ll be in a safe position to see the most spectacular natural sights without issue.

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