Trips are important events to look forward to because it’s a time away from your regular environment. It allows you to meet new people and try new things. Most especially trips that involve fun activities like camping and the likes. However, most trips entail one preparation dreaded by most people which is packing.
The packing looks pretty easy, till it’s time to get down to business. Then you’ll realize it takes a lot of skills to pack, especially when embarking on backpacking trips. The very first reality that’ll hit you is how every item you have suddenly becomes important to you. This includes even clothes you haven’t touched in months. There’s just this weird feeling you keep getting that the need might arise, and you’ll want to include it in your backpack.
Perfectionists have it harder, as they try to include all necessary items. Some even go the extra mile of purchasing bigger bag packs. Still, they are unable to fit all their essentials into their wide backpack. It’s vital to get acquainted with backpacking skills that’ll make the trip more fun.
Here are some simple tips:
1. Research
It’s important to park right and this is impossible if you don’t have specific details of the trip. In the light of this, it’s vital to find out what kind of trip it’ll be. This would enable you to know the essential items to get ready. You might also use the internet to find the appropriate items that’ll help you relax and chill.
2. Leave out the Non-Essentials!
Don’t go packing like you’ve been banished from the state. Just a few necessary items like your toothbrush, deodorants, toilet papers, compact size hammocks, perfumes, head warmers (if necessary), blanket, etc. Any non-essential item is unnecessary. Although the word essential is relative. This is because another man’s food is another poison. Hence, individuals should take only those items that fall into the essential category when next they are going on a backpacking trip. Also, to avoid back pain, kindly pack light. This is because a heavy backpack would eventually become a burden to the carrier.
3. Embrace the Adventure Spirit
The main reason why most people have a heavy backpack is because of the food items they have loaded in it. This is all in a bit to avoid street food. Trying out new dishes from different cultures can be such an amazing experience. You never know which one would resonate more with you. That’s why you should be open to trying and tasting new delicacies.
It’s also important to have researched the kinds of foods that’ll be available on the trip. This would enable you to prepare mentally for the experience. Again, you’ll have foreknowledge on the composition of the foods. This would help you in determining which one works best for you especially if you’re a picky eater.
4. Light Items
Depending on the number of days, you’re spending on your backpacking trip. It’s vital to pack light. Again, it’s very key to purchase naturally light items. Items made from wool-like materials can have a tiring effect on your back. Also, they occupy space and make it almost impossible to pack light and have a fun trip.
5. The Right Backpack
There are a lot of backpacks available for different events and purposes. Finding the right backpack that suits you and the purpose of your intending trip is the key. This is because the right backpack gives you the comfort you need while on the trip. Also, it’ll be just perfect for all the essential items you’ll be needing on the trip. It’s important to go a short walk around the store before paying for your backpack. Ensure they have it stuffed, then feel the weight and see if it rocks your boat and suits the purpose.
6. Traveling with a Buddy?
The mistake most people make is not discussing items they’ll be bringing with their travel partner. It’s best to have this discussion as this would afford you both the chance to bring other essential items. It’s a pure waste of backpack space for travelers to bring an excess of a particular item. Travelers can have one person bring tissues, while the others bring essentials items that they have been allocated to them.
Backpacking shouldn’t feel like a chore even If it’s your first time. It’s best to enjoy every bit of your backpacking experience and don’t overthink it. The good thing is the more backpacking experience you get, the better the chances you have in becoming a smart packer. Don’t let the stress of backpacking deter you from going on that road trip. You’ll get a hang of it!