What To Pack - Backpacking For Beginners

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=William_Valentine]William Valentine
Here are a list of backpacking essentials that you should think about:
1) Hiking boots - These are one of the most important items to consider. You generally want boots that fit properly (probably slightly bigger than normal to accommodate thick socks and swollen feet). Look for a solid toe covering and firm heel base to keep your feet stable. Also look for a wide toe bed to give your toes some breathing room. You should also think about waterproof boots if you'll be hiking in wet weather.
2) Socks and Sock Liners - You want to avoid blisters and rubbing on your feet at all costs. Look into high quality socks as well as sock liners. I've found that the liners help keep the blisters and rubbing at bay after several days of hiking thru Yellowstone National Park earlier this year.
3) Rain Gear - If there's a chance of rain (or snow!), you'll want to have waterproof pants and a coat to put on over your other clothing.
4) Long Underwear - Again, depending on the time of year and the altitude you'll be hiking in, you should look into a good pair of long underwear for added warmth.
5) Mosquito Head Netting - We bought these for our Yellowstone trip, but never needed them because the temperatures were down in the 30's at night. However, depending on the location and time of year, I've heard that the bugs and mosquito's can be brutal......no fun dealing with bug bites for the duration of your trip. These are usually small and compact, so they won't take up much room in your pack.
6) Maps - Always essential, especially if you're on your own or don't have someone hiking with you that is familiar with the area. Purchase maps ahead of time, or possibly get them at the nearest ranger station if it's a big national park.
7) Bear Spray - Yeah, you read that right.....BEAR SPRAY......again, depending on the location, you should always research the animals that live in the area. On our trip to Yellowstone, there were both black and grizzly bears in the area. We never actually saw a bear, but there were bear tracks all over the place. They don't allow firearms into the park, so bear spray is a must (it's basically pepper spray from what I understand). There were also buffalo, wolves and other animals roaming around to be aware of.
8) Water Bottles or CamelBaks - You're going to work up a sweat, even in cold climates and you must stay hydrated. Be sure to bring water bottles or a CamelBak for refilling. If you need to refill along the way, look into buying a water filter pump or possibly drops or tablets are added to river water for purification purposes.
9) Toiletries and Medical Gear - You'll want to think about toilet paper, toothbrush and toothpaste, band aids, duct tape (can be used to cover blisters) and other essentials. Look for an emergency medical hit at your outdoor outfitters or online.
10) Walking Poles - These are like ski poles and can help you to keep your balance on steep climbs. These aren't necessary, but some people prefer to use them.
11) Food - If you're packing on your own, look for items that are simple to prepare and eat. Snack type foods like nuts, trail mix and various power bars are easy to pack and eat. If you're bringing a burner to bowl water, think about oatmeal or pasta.
12) Tents and Sleeping Bags - If you're responsible for everything on your trip, you'll need to look for a high quality, lightweight tent that is easy to assemble along with a sleeping bag that will keep you warm, even in zero degree temperatures.
This may not cover everything, but this is a good starting point to think about as you get ready for your hiking or backpacking trip. It can be a lot of fun to get out into nature, but you want to be smart about it and be as prepared as possible.
Additionally, if you're interested in learning more about   hiking and camping for beginners, please check out http://backpackingessentials.net for more information.
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