So, you’re planning your first backpacking trip? How exciting! There is a lot to consider, and it can be difficult to plan for since you haven’t gone on a trip like this before. Preparation is very different from planning a trip where you get on a plane, stay with a friend, or spend your whole time in one place. Fear not - here are 6 things to consider before you set off on your first trip. 

Get a Proper Backpack

This seems like a given, but finding the right backpack can be extremely important to having a successful trip. It is recommended that you go to a store and try one on and avoid buying one online. You want to make sure that you find one that is right for your type of body and strength. Also, it would be very helpful to work with someone on adjusting it who is familiar with all of the backpack’s features. 

Plan for Time and Budget

One of the reasons some people are unsuccessful when backpacking is because they don’t plan for the right amount of time or budget. Definitely do research on where you plan to go backpacking. See what modes of transportation are nearby if you experience an injury or a setback. You should also track your budget and consider resupplying properly. It can be enticing to take a lot of stuff with you, but that can also make your journey more difficult. The more stuff you bring, the heavier your pack will be. This means you will be more tired, and it’ll take you longer than anticipated. Be realistic about your timeline and don’t rush through your backpacking trip. 

Let Others Know Where You’ll Be

This can be important for a few reasons. For one, you want to make sure people know where you are in case something happens. Another benefit to having people know where you are is that you can plan time to reach out to them or meet up with friends if they live near where you will be. You might be thinking that the whole point of this trip is to meet new people or be by yourself, but once you get going, you might realize that you need some human company. 

Do You

Remember, you are most likely taking this trip because it is something you want to do for yourself—not for anyone else. Check out the places you have always wanted to visit. This is something you may never get to do again, so take the time to do what is best for you. 

Listen to Your Body

Listening to your body can make or break your trip. If you have had enough for one day, don’t force yourself to keep going because that can impact the rest of your trip with an injury or illness. If you need to stop and eat, do it. Your body is going to let you know when it has had enough, and it is your job to listen to it. You might even want to consider renting an RV for a portion of the trip if you become too exhausted, as an injury or sickness on the road will spell the end of your backpacking trip.

Be Positive

It can be very discouraging when you haven’t reached your goal. To keep your spirits up, remind yourself how far you’ve come or that you are doing something awesome for yourself. If you need to, create a mantra that you say to yourself during tough times. Something like, “I am doing something positive for myself, and I will succeed” will do. 

Backpacking for the first time can be intimidating, but you will love every second of it as long as you plan your trip well, remain flexible, and set realistic expectations. 

Where are you excited to backpack first?

Pin for later: