First Backpacking trip: One Week Out
I’m excited and one week out from my first backpacking trip in 20 years. An overnighter but great to get out on the trail. So, what am I doing, organizing to get ready? Here is what I have so far.
One week out from my trip, and what am I doing?
REMEMBER 2 Days 1 Night with 2 Others!
Finalizing my food so I can order or buy what is needed
Gather all my electronics, so I am ready for charging/hitting the trail with full juice
Start to monitor the weather for any changes or deviations for the clothing I have
Get my fuel topped off in the canister – review the number of boils I must refresh myself
Review checklist for any additions/deletion’s adjustments
Compile my first aid kit to get any last items needed
Checking Alltrails to make sure I have the map downloaded
Get the trailhead coordinates so I can get there!
Loading my pack for one final loaded hike this weekend (also an excellent chance to see how I want to load my pack).
Hey, I admit it, I’m a planner and checklist maker! It helps reduce my stress levels, and I enjoy it. Curious about what you did as a new backpacker on your first trip?
You experienced backpackers are sitting back and smiling. But, man, this guy is all about overkill!
As you know, I’m very passionate about sharing new ideas with people looking to better themselves, so please leave a comment below on your first backpacking trip.
Of Course, you need Hiking Boots, Or Do You?
Here are my original thoughts:
I’m returning to backpacking after 15 years and bought hiking boots—no trail runners or tennis shoes for me.
Backpacking decisions are all about what you are comfortable with. Cutting weight gets to a balancing act of what will cause you stress on the trail. There is no need to cut a few ounces on footwear if you are constantly worried about turning an ankle. Was it worth it??
Go with the boots, man.
For backpacking, make your decision on footwear early. Then, after that, you can go with what you have, shoes, even sandless to get out the door. But I would argue you need boots when you start.
You are adding at least 20 lbs. to your body weight when you put that pack on. Until you get used to carrying that weight up and down hills and uneven footing, you need the ankle stability that boots give you.
The ground can be uneven, changing your center of gravity. Twisting an ankle out on the trail is not ideal. – you must make your way back to the trailhead.
Boots can provide a better tread; hey, they make them specifically for the trail. And that will help improve your footing out on the trail.
Boots now are not just the leather variety we used to have; they are breathable, waterproof, lightweight. Compared to what I was used to, they are much lighter and improved.
You can go with trail runners, even tennis shoes, or trainers, sandals, or whatever you want, but I think starting with hiking boots are the way to go.
After you get your legs under you and feel confident, go for it and try something else for footwear.
Then I changed my views and beliefs on footwear.
Here is where I am now.
There is a place for trail runners (basically beefed-up running shoes specifically designed for off-road use), sandals hey even barefoot. You do not automatically need to move to the hiking boot rack when shopping for backpacking footwear.
The chart below from Beth Henkes at REI offers a few facts to consider when deciding between hiking boots and trail runners:
When you are evaluating what works for you, here are a few items to consider:
How comfortable are you on uneven surfaces? If you are trying to tackle a trail with many uneven surfaces, rocks, roots, then maybe you need the stability of a boot.
What is your body type? Do you need to lose a few pounds, then maybe boots are a safe bet.
How fast will you be being going? Are you trying to churn out the miles? Trail runners are the way to go then. They are designed for moving fast.
How steady are you with additional weight on your back? Steady, then go with trail runners or another light footwear.
What seasons/weather are you going to be hiking in? (Snow, below freezing temps) I would go for boots.
In conclusion – it was interesting how I had the opinion, that I thought was based on facts, that wasn’t entirely true. Not only will I be considering trail runners for my hiking footwear, I learned something about myself today. I’m not too old to learn something new and to change my mind. I need to celebrate that.
Great Divide Trail - Justin Outdoors
I have been following Justin’s epic hike on the Canadian Great Divide Trail. Justin is open about his challenges, mood, and successes on this through hike on the daily videos. He doesn’t sugarcoat it but rather is honest about his trip. A great series to follow.
Justin also publishes excellent gear reviews from Calgary, Alberta, and offers a behind-the-scenes view of planning, training, and enjoying backpacking excursions.
Looking for a great backpacking YouTube channel to follow? Justin Outdoors is an awesome one.
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