What Backpacking Beginners Should Know? 1. 【T1】______ before backpacking 【T1】______ ■ Break in new hiking sho

What Backpacking Beginners Should Know?
Chat under the stars, fall asleep next to a babbling creek, or drink coffee when the sun rises, indeed, these are wonderful for backpacking. But for people who will go backpacking for the first time, there are a few things to consider.
First of all, if you get fit before you go backpacking, you’ll feel better and have more fun. Many first-time backpackers complain about their aching back and shoulders, or those darn blisters on their feet.
This includes breaking in your new hiking shoes! Simply wearing your boots around town while you run errands or taking a few short hikes will help break in your boots. Remember to wear the socks that you will be hiking in to assure a proper fit.
You should also get your body in shape for backpacking. Wear your backpack on short hikes so your body can get used to hiking with the added weight of a backpack. Start with a half-loaded pack on and gradually increase the weight and the distance of your training hikes.
Next, test your gear. Before your backpacking, create a list of the essentials that you’ll need like a tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, water filter and stove, and make sure you know how each piece of equipment works in case that you’re missing a tent pole or that your borrowed sleeping bag has a hole in it.
It also helps to pack all of your gear into your pack before walking out the door to go backpacking. You’ll want to make sure everything fits, that your pack isn’t heavier than you can handle, and that you know how to pack according to weight distribution.
Thirdly, a little bit of research and planning will help make sure your backpacking adventure is fun, safe and enjoyable. Select a destination within your hiking capability. Get a map of the area you’d like to visit and calculate mileage and elevation within your comfort level. Make sure to look into the water sources in the area. You’ll need to filter your water and want to know that your destination has a reliable water source.
Once you have decided on a destination and route, you should contact the ranger district to get information about permits and regulations. Before you go, check the weather so you’ll be prepared, but also keep in mind that weather patterns can change and you’ll want to be prepared for anything. Now that you are in shape, you’ve tested your gear, and planned your route, it’s time to hit the trail and go backpacking! Keep backpacking etiquette and the environment in mind while you’re in the wilderness.
Always set up camp 100 feet from water and never wash your dishes directly in a creek or lake. You’ll need to bury your waste more than 6 inches deep, and away from freshwater sources. If campfires are permitted, make sure to keep them under control at all times and to drown all campfires before going to sleep at night.