The unpredictable nature of backpacking adventures offers a rush of excitement for adrenaline junkies. To them, no feeling compares to that of looking over to the vast horizon from the mountaintop with a welling sense of pride.
Backpacking is nothing short of an art form that requires meticulous planning, careful execution, and a resolve to live by the rules. Statista shares that over 61 million Americans went on a hiking trip at least once in 2023.
Backpacking only takes it a step further with multi-day trips that include overnight stays in the wilderness. If you’re ready for such a trip, let safety and adventure go hand in hand. For that, you must follow certain unspoken rules.
This article will discuss four of them to enjoy a safe and exciting backpacking adventure. These rules may not be stated explicitly, but they’re widely understood within the backpacking community.
Rule #1: Research the Conditions of the Chosen Route
A lot of the errors associated with backpacking can be avoided just with the right knowledge. Whether you’re venturing on this adventure for the first time or the 100th, the importance of prior research cannot be overstated.
The truth is not every backpacking enthusiast can cover every trail, perhaps due to factors like experience, health, etc. When you understand the route’s conditions beforehand, it narrows down your options to choose a specific destination.
Not only that, it will also let you know about the gear and supplies you will need to carry. For instance, certain Federal lands require special permits to go backcountry camping. To make things easier, let’s go through the planning process systematically.
- Start by deciding when, where, and with whom you wish to go backpacking.
- Familiarize yourself with the chosen route and assess the conditions you’re likely to encounter (topography, climate, wildlife, etc.).
- Identify which navigational tools to carry, how much food and supplies are needed, as well as how remote the route is.
- Understand the types of activities that may be required to complete the chosen trail. Examples include scrambling and climbing.
- Get to know beforehand if any sections of the trail are likely to be closed due to wildfire, natural disaster, or ecosystem restoration.
Essentially, you need to know your destination like the back of your hand. There may still be surprises while you’re there, but they won’t be unpleasant ones that mar your backpacking experience.
Rule #2: Respect the Environment and Fellow Campers
No matter which trail you choose, be considerate of the environment and fellow campers. It is the only way to enjoy an adventure that is free of chaos, conflicts, and guilt. This point can be summed up in the two words: camp responsibly.
Now, it can take many forms, and we will discuss a few. Let’s start with the gear you carry; all the equipment and supplies should be safe for the environment, wildlife, and humans.
Recently, it was discovered that hikers and campers were inadvertently harming the environment due to PFAS-laden waterproof gear.
PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are complex chemicals that are a matter of growing concern today. Their use in firefighting foam caused injuries like cancer due to direct exposure. TorHoerman Law notes that traces were even found in local water bodies, rendering the water toxic.
The PFAS lawsuit, filed by injured firefighters and municipalities, is an effort to gain justice and bring about social change. It has been effective since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned these chemicals in food packages.
Similar changes are required in the sphere of camping gear. While there is no official ban, many companies have started manufacturing safe alternative materials that mimic animal fur to maintain water-resistance.
Invest in non-toxic outdoor gear to protect the environment, wildlife, and fellow campers. To that end, you can also do the following –
- Avoid disturbing wildlife or picking plants.
- Leave natural and cultural features as you find them.
- Keep noise levels down.
- Yield to uphill campers when on a trail.
- Set up camp at least 200 feet away from lakes or trails.
- Avoid excessive brightness at night that may disrupt sleep.
- Follow local regulations regarding fires and burn bans.
- Use local water sources responsibly.
Rule #3: Leave No Trace
The Leave No Trace (LNT) rule or principle of backpacking is an extension of the point above. It aims at minimizing environmental impact by ensuring that the wilderness remains as pristine as it was found.
In other words, you need to take care of disposing of any waste as safely and neatly as possible. For instance, avoid spilling food at the campsite or feeding any wild animals. Pick up any scraps or waste and throw them in the right trash cans.
Most organized camping grounds across the US have designated bins for various materials. This is done to reduce waste and streamline the recycling process. Make sure you do your due diligence to not leave behind any waste traces.
On that note, this includes pet or human waste. If you have your furry friends tagging along, carry proper essentials to dispose of their waste safely.
In areas with no bathrooms, dig a hole at least five to eight inches deep away from any water sources. Then, bury the waste (including any feminine hygiene products) and cover it securely with soil.
Rule #4: Follow the Park or Trail Instructions
Since rules are not something everyone likes, this deserves a separate mention. Never go backpacking with the childish mindset that rules are meant to be broken. Many who do so learn it the hard way, as campsite instructions are important.
They are healthy boundaries designed for camper safety. According to the National Park Service, backpackers need to be self-reliant. This means you should be thoroughly prepared for any form of unforeseen dangers, like swift water crossings or altitude sickness.
Carry along important tools like a compass, map, or GPS in case you lose your way. Stick strictly to only designated trails and do not wander off the familiar route in a moment’s thrill-seeking. The wrong route may not only leave you lost but also lead to unpleasant wildlife encounters.
Also, resist the temptation to take any shortcuts, especially on your way back. Short, intermittent breaks are good, but keep to the designated trail. They were intentionally designed to prevent environmental damage and injuries.
On a side note, keep everyone informed of your location and monitor your group’s head count. Everyone should have the means to inform others in case they get lost. The best thing would be to enjoy the adventure together.
Now that the unspoken rules have been discussed in black and white, are you ready to apply them to your first/next backpacking trip? If yes, then start looking for your ideal destination.
The Backpacker Magazine shares a top backpacking destination for every month of the calendar. It includes famous scenic trails like the Yellowstone National Park (January), Zion National Park (May), and the White Mountain National Forest (October).
Refer to the first point and choose a trail wisely. Then, follow the other rules as you go about your adventure. They will guide you along the path of maximum fun, thrill, and a good time with fellow campers.