Five Common Mistakes New Backpackers Make and How to Avoid Them

Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors, connect with nature and challenge yourself. However, it can also be a daunting experience for beginners who may not know what to expect or how to prepare. Here are five common mistakes new backpackers make and how to avoid them.

1. Packing Your Fears

One of the most notorious beginner backpacking mistakes of all is bringing too much stuff. Whether it’s too much food, clothing, gear or water, many newbies “pack their fears” in an attempt to control every possible variable. However, this only leads to a heavier backpack that will slow you down, tire you out, and make your trip miserable.

To avoid overpacking, try to evaluate the contents of your pack before setting out for the backcountry. You want to balance carrying enough gear to stay safe and comfortable and not carrying so much that you can hardly move. It helps to build a spreadsheet itemizing all of your gear and the weight of each item. You’ll be stunned by how much the little things add up.

Some tips to reduce your pack weight are:

1. Choose lightweight and compact gear that is designed for backpacking use, such as tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and cookware.

2. Pack only the clothing you need for the expected weather and layer up or down as needed. Avoid cotton and opt for synthetic or wool fabrics that dry quickly and wick moisture.

3. Plan your meals carefully and pack only the food you need for the duration of your trip. Choose high-calorie, nutrient-dense and easy-to-prepare foods that don’t require much water or fuel to cook.

4. Carry only enough water to get you from one reliable water source to another. Use a map or guidebook to locate water sources along your route and plan accordingly. Carry a water filter or purification tablets to treat water from streams or lakes.

2. Poor Footwear

Another common mistake new backpackers make is wearing inappropriate footwear. Your feet are your most important asset on the trail, so you want to take good care of them. Wearing shoes that are too tight, too loose, too heavy or not broken in can lead to blisters, hot spots, foot fatigue and injuries.

To avoid foot problems, choose footwear that is comfortable, supportive, breathable, and durable. You may prefer hiking boots, hiking shoes, or trail runners depending on your personal preference and the terrain you will encounter. Whatever you choose, make sure they fit well and are broken in before your trip. You may also want to invest in some quality hiking socks that are cushioned, moisture-wicking and seamless.

3. Cutting Calories

One of the most surprising mistakes new backpackers make is not eating enough. Backpacking is a physically demanding activity that burns a lot of calories, so you need to replenish your energy regularly. Not eating enough can lead to fatigue, weakness, headaches, and mood swings.

To avoid under-eating, plan your meals carefully and pack enough food for your trip. Aim for about 3,000 calories per day or more depending on your body size and activity level. Snack frequently on high-energy foods like nuts, dried fruits, granola bars or jerky throughout the day. Eat a hearty breakfast before hitting the trail and a satisfying dinner at camp. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol which can dehydrate you further.

4. Optimistic Expectations

Another mistake new backpackers make is having unrealistic expectations about their trip. They may overestimate their abilities, underestimate the difficulty of the terrain or ignore the weather conditions. This can lead to frustration, disappointment, or even danger.

To avoid setting yourself up for failure, do some research before your trip and have a realistic plan. Know your physical limits and choose a route that matches your fitness level and experience. Check the weather forecast and prepare for possible changes. Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong or you need to bail out early. Be flexible and adaptable to whatever challenges you may face on the trail.

5. Over Analyzing Gear

The final mistake new backpackers make is obsessing over gear. This is easy to do and I think we've all done it. New hikers may spend hours comparing different brands, models and features of backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and other gear. They may spend a fortune on the latest and greatest equipment or try to save money by buying cheap and low-quality gear. They may get overwhelmed by the number of choices and information available or get influenced by the opinions of others.

To avoid over analyzing gear, remember that gear is not the most important factor in backpacking. Gear is just a tool to help you enjoy your trip, not the goal of your trip. You don’t need the most expensive or the most advanced gear to have a good time. You just need gear that works for you and your needs. In fact, the most important gear you take with you weighs nothing. We're talking about knowledge. What you know about your gear, the trail, the weather, yourself, etc., will count for more than all the gear you bring.

The best way to find out what gear works for you is to try it out. Borrow or rent gear from friends, family or local outfitters before buying it. Test your gear in your backyard or on short trips before taking it on longer ones. Read reviews and watch videos from reputable sources but don’t rely on them blindly. Trust your own judgment and experience.

Conclusion

Backpacking is a rewarding and fun activity that can enrich your life in many ways. However, it can also be challenging and intimidating for beginners who may make some common mistakes. By avoiding these five mistakes, you can have a more enjoyable and successful backpacking trip.

Do you have any other tips or advice for new backpackers? Share them in the comments below. And if you liked this post, please share it with your friends who may be interested in backpacking. Hope to see you out there!

For more tips check out these links:

• The Illusion of Speed: Why Going Off Trail is a Bad Idea

• 10 Ways to Prevent Backcountry Rescues

• 5 Ways to Not Be a Newbie on the Trail

• 3 Principles of Hiking & Backpacking

• 10 Tips on How to Prevent Car Break-Ins at a Trailhead

• Five Common Mistakes New Backpackers Make and How to Avoid Them

• What NOT to Bring on a Day Hike

• You Injured Yourself Hiking

The Great Debate: Nalgene, Smart Water, or Water Bladder?

For some, this is a non-issue. "Who cares so long as you have water?", they ask. For others, this subject prompts derisive looks to outright mockery and destroyed friendships. OK, I exaggerate slightly with that last one, but you get the idea. Before jumping into this controversy, I'll come clean and tell you I'm in the Smart camp. I even have a video comparing Nalgene to Smart Water bottles (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWmqIrPFoEo). However, I have purchased one of those kits that enables you to use your Smart Bottle like a Water Bladder. So it's not necessarily an either/or situation. (Bonus section below the pros and cons)

It's difficult to say which type of hydration system is the "best" for hiking, as it can vary depending on individual preferences and the hiking conditions or situation. All three options - a Nalgene bottle, a Water Bladder, and a Smart water bottle - have their own pros and cons.

Let's go into those pros and cons, shall we?

• Nalgene Water Bottles: Pros

• Nalgene Water Bottles: Cons

• Water Bladder Pros

• Water Bladder Cons

• Smart Water Pros:

• Smart Water Cons:

• Bonus:

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Nalgene Water Bottles Pros

1. Durability: Nalgene water bottles are made of tough, BPA-free plastic that can withstand rugged outdoor conditions, including drops, impacts, and rough handling. They are less likely to crack or break, making them highly durable for outdoor adventures.

2. Large capacity: Nalgene water bottles typically have a large capacity of up to 32 ounces (or more), allowing you to carry a significant amount of water, reducing the need for frequent refills during hikes or backpacking trips. This can be especially useful in areas with limited water sources.

3. Wide mouth design: Nalgene bottles usually have a wide mouth design, making them easy to fill, drink from, and clean. This can be beneficial when you need to refill your bottle from a stream or a water source with limited access.

4. Versatility: Nalgene water bottles are versatile and can be used for more than just water. They can also store other liquids like hot beverages, soups, or cold beverages, making them suitable for various outdoor activities and meal options.

Nalgene Water Bottles Cons

1. Weight: Nalgene bottles can be relatively heavy compared to other lightweight water bottle options available in the market. When backpacking, every ounce counts, and the weight of multiple Nalgene bottles can add up, potentially increasing the overall pack weight.

2. Bulky size: Nalgene bottles are relatively bulky due to their large capacity and wide-mouth design, which can take up significant space in your backpack. This can be a concern when you have limited space or need to pack efficiently for a multi-day backpacking trip.

3. Limited insulation: Nalgene bottles do not provide good insulation for temperature-sensitive liquids. For example, they may not keep hot beverages hot or cold beverages cold for an extended period of time. This can be a drawback when you need to keep your drinks at a specific temperature.

4. Leakage risk: Nalgene bottles can be prone to leakage if the cap is not tightened properly or if the bottle is not stored upright. This can lead to wet gear or loss of precious water, which can be a significant inconvenience during a hike or backpacking trip.

   
   

Water Bladder Pros

1. Hydration convenience: Water bladders, also known as hydration reservoirs, typically come with a long drinking tube that allows you to sip water on the go without having to stop and reach for a water bottle. This can help you stay hydrated more easily and efficiently during hikes or backpacking trips.

2. Hands-free operation: Water bladders can be stored in a backpack or hydration pack and are often designed to be compatible with various backpacks, making them hands-free and convenient to use while on the move. This can be especially beneficial when you need your hands free for other outdoor activities.

3. Large capacity: Water bladders can hold a significant amount of water, typically ranging from 1 to 3 liters or more, providing ample hydration for extended periods without the need for frequent refills. This can be particularly useful in areas with limited water sources.

4. Space-saving design: Water bladders are typically flat when empty, taking up minimal space in your backpack compared to bulkier water bottles. This can help you save space in your backpack for other essential gear and supplies.

5. Insulation options: Some water bladders come with insulation sleeves or are made of insulated materials, which can help keep your water cool or hot for a longer period of time. This can be beneficial when you need to regulate the temperature of your water during outdoor activities.

Water Bladder Cons

1. Cleaning and maintenance: Water bladders can be more challenging to clean and maintain compared to water bottles. The drinking tube and the reservoir may require special brushes or cleaning tablets to prevent mold, bacteria, or other contaminants from accumulating, which can add extra effort and time to your outdoor gear maintenance routine.

2. Limited durability: Water bladders are generally made of thin, flexible materials such as plastic or silicone, which may be less durable compared to rigid water bottles. They can puncture or tear easily if not handled carefully, which can be a concern in rugged outdoor environments.

3. Difficulty in monitoring water intake: Unlike water bottles, it can be challenging to gauge how much water you have consumed from a water bladder, as they don't provide a clear visual indicator of the water level. This can make it harder to monitor your hydration levels and plan accordingly during hikes or backpacking trips.

4. Risk of leakage: Water bladders can be prone to leakage if the reservoir or the drinking tube is not properly sealed or if the tube gets accidentally disconnected. This can result in wet gear or loss of water, which can be inconvenient or even dangerous, especially in arid or remote environments.

5. Dependency on backpack compatibility: Water bladders are designed to be used with specific hydration packs or backpacks, and their compatibility may vary. If your backpack is not compatible with a water bladder, you may need to purchase a new backpack or find alternative solutions, which can be an additional cost or inconvenience.

Smart Water Pros

1. Lightweight and durable: Smart Water bottles are made of lightweight and durable plastic, making them ideal for hiking and backpacking where weight and durability are important considerations.

2. Availability and affordability: Smart Water bottles are widely available at most convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations, making them easy to find during hikes or backpacking trips. They are also affordable compared to specialized outdoor water bottles, which can save you money on gear costs. They also come pre-loaded with water.

3. Compatibility with water filtration systems: Smart Water bottles are compatible with many popular water filtration systems, such as Sawyer Squeeze or LifeStraw, which allows you to easily filter and treat water from natural sources like rivers, lakes, or streams. This can be crucial for staying hydrated during outdoor adventures where potable water sources may be limited.

4. Multiple size options: Smart Water bottles come in different sizes, ranging from 500ml (16 oz) to 1L (32 oz), allowing you to choose the size that fits your hydration needs and pack space requirements. This flexibility allows you to customize your water supply according to the duration and intensity of your hike or backpacking trip.

5. Recyclable and eco-friendly: Smart Water bottles are typically made of PET plastic, which is recyclable in many recycling programs. This makes them a more environmentally friendly option compared to single-use disposable water bottles, as they can be recycled and reduce plastic waste in the wilderness.

Smart Water Cons

1. Limited insulation: Smart Water bottles are typically not insulated, which means they may not keep your water cool or hot for an extended period of time. This can be a drawback if you need to regulate the temperature of your water.

2. Lack of convenient drinking options: Smart Water bottles do not come with built-in drinking straws or caps, which means you need to unscrew the cap or open the bottle to drink water, requiring both hands and potentially slowing down your hydration process compared to bottles with built-in drinking features.

3. Less convenient for on-the-go drinking: Unlike water bladders with drinking tubes, Smart Water bottles require you to stop and open the bottle to drink water, which can disrupt your pace or rhythm during hikes or backpacking trips, especially if you need to drink frequently.

4. Potential for leakage: As with the Nalgene bottles, Smart Water bottles can leak if the cap is not properly sealed or tightened. This is especially true of some of the cheaper brands of water bottles.

Bonus

Water bottle conversion kits are a great way to combine the pros of Nalgene or Smart

water bottles with the pros of Water Bladders. You get the easy-to-clean ability found with bottles and the convenience of a bladder. Because the conversion kits usually come with attachments for either Nalgene or Smart water bottles, you can switch between the two as the hiking conditions require. They can be a little tricky to set up and I've had a cheaper brand leak so it's worth it to buy a better-quality conversion kit.

Source Tactical SNEP Convertube Water Bottle Adapter Kit

Gear, gear and more gear!

11 Creative Hiking Gear Concepts

Notorious Outdoor Gear Flops

10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure

Evolution of the Hiking Backpack: A Journey from Burdens to Companions (1950s - Present)

10 Items Not On Your Usual Backpacking Gear List

The Great Debate: Nalgene, Smart Water, or Water Bladder?

Innovative Backpacks: Gimmicks or Functional?

Four Reasons to Hike in the Rain

Now, this may seem like the dumbest thing to do for those that don't frequently hike in the rain. Which is probably everyone not on the western side of the Cascade mountains in Washington and Oregon. Nonetheless, hiking in the rain can be one of the best times to go hiking. Note: being properly prepared helps. Waterproof boots, jackets, and hats are requirements. :)

Let's get my four reasons I like to hike in the rain...

Enjoying the beauty and freshness of nature.

Rain can make everything look more vibrant and alive, from the green leaves to the colorful flowers. The air is also cleaner and cooler, and you can breathe in the refreshing scent of wet earth. You may also encounter some wildlife that is more active in rainy weather, such as frogs, snails, and birds.

A more peaceful and quieter hike.

Rain can deter other hikers from hitting the trails, so you can have more space and solitude to yourself. You can also enjoy the soothing sound of raindrops falling on your jacket and through the branches, which can calm your mind and relax your body.

Challenging yourself and improving your skills.

Hiking in the rain can be more difficult than hiking in dry weather, as you have to deal with slippery terrain, muddy paths, reduced visibility, and wet gear. However, this can also make your hike more exciting and adventurous. You can test your endurance, balance, navigation, and problem-solving skills as you face these obstacles. You can also learn how to prepare for rainy hikes by choosing the right clothing, footwear, backpacks, etc.

Feeling a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Hiking in the rain can make you feel proud of yourself for overcoming your fears or doubts and completing your hike despite unfavorable conditions. You can also appreciate the contrast between the wet outdoors and the warm indoors when you return to your car or home. You may feel more grateful for having a dry place to rest after a long day of hiking.

These are just some of the reasons why I like to hike in the rain. Of course, hiking in any weather has its pros and cons, and it's important to be safe and responsible when hiking in rainy conditions. But if you're looking for a new way to enjoy hiking, you may want to give it a try!

Here's some links about how to prevent hypothermia and prepare for winter hiking and camping:

• Understanding and Preventing Hypothermia: Staying Safe in Winter

• 10 Must-Have Winter Camping Gear Essentials for Your Next Adventure

• Surviving Winter in the Pacific Northwest: Top Ten Tips for Hiking and Camping Like a Local

• Tips for the Cold and Rainy Season!

• Winter Hiking: Are You Wet and Hot?

And for those that like hiking in less-than-ideal weather conditions...

• Four Reasons to Hike in the Rain

• The Weather Sucks, Let's Go Backpacking!

• Why I Hike and Camp in the Snowy Wilderness

#hiking #hike #pnw #hikingintherain #amputeeoutdoors #pacificnorthwest #raining