Backpacking Safety and Preparation Tips

Enjoying an outdoor adventure by going on a backpacking trip is fun and exciting, but a backpacker needs to be well prepared to stay safe. Adventure travel generally requires more materials and preparation than a typical trip.

Preparation

The first step in preparing for a backpacking trip is to prepare for the hike. Conditioning should be targeted to the specific trail that you will be hiking, and the chosen trail should not be above the backpacker's fitness level. Getting used to traveling by foot with the weight of a fully stocked backpack is also a key part of training. Breaking in hiking boots is also important in the success of a backpacking adventure.

Packing an adequate amount of supplies and food is a must for a successful backpacking trip. A general rule of thumb is that each person on the hike will need one to two pounds of food per day to provide enough calories for the hike. This food should be rich in nutrition and not require refrigeration. Nuts, dried fruits are all ideal.

Safety

It is particularly important for novice backpackers to stick to marked trails when embarking on an outdoor adventure. At least one person that is not going on the trip should be aware of where the backpacker is hiking in case of an emergency.

Water sources are often a safety issue due to bacteria. Water can be boiled or filtered to increase safety, but it should be noted that filtering does not take care of viruses that may be present. Outdoor shops sell water treatment solutions that can be added directly to water to kill viruses. We suggest using iodine tablets to treat water.

Always bring a first aid kit on a backpacking trip in case of an emergency.

For younger backpackers, summer adventure camps are a great idea. Moondance summer trips give the benefit of experiencing the outdoors while also providing the safety of having a knowledgeable and experienced staff nearby at all times. Moondance Adventures provides safety in numbers with at least two adult instructors and assists in building character as well as lasting friendships.