Remember that larger packs are often heavier and may tempt you to carry additional items you don’t really need. [3] X Expert Source Britt EdelenOutdoor Educator Expert Interview. 7 February 2020. Keep the weight limit in mind if you plan on doing a lot of walking during your trip.
For example, select a lightweight backpack if you’re going to carry it outside of the camp. Usually, 2 or 3 pouches and belt loops are enough for a basic camping trip. If you’re going to be close to a campground, vehicle, or another storage spot for most of your trip, minimizing weight becomes less important. Still, reserve your backpack for what you need to carry. If you’re the kind of person that braves the outdoors with minimal supplies, consider using an ultralight backpack. These packs have very few features and storage space. Try one if you’re going to do a lot of walking and plan on sleeping out under the stars. [5] X Research source
If you don’t have a friend with you to help you measure yourself, visit a camping supply store. Most store employees are more than happy to help size you. Your waist size is also handy to have on hand. Wrap tape measure around the top edge of your hips to take this measurement.
Always give a pack a test run before buying it. Make sure it fits your body well so you’re not stuck carrying something that causes you pain. Wear the backpack after putting all your supplies into it. This is the best way to test the fit while also identifying spots where the weight balance feels off.
Most camping suppliers sell zippered bags that are great for keeping your pack organized. Bring some resealable plastic bags for liquids or anything that gets wet during the trip. For example, separate all the utensils into one pile, the cooking gear into another, and the emergency items into another.
These organizers are available online and at camping supply stores. You could also use plastic bags and trash bags, but they aren’t quite as efficient. Compression sacks are waterproof, so they are a great way to protect the contents of your backpack as well as save on space. Some items commonly stored in compression packs include bulky sleeping bags and piles of clothing, but you could use a pack to organize anything you’re bringing.
Choose your gear so your backpack weighs 20% to 30% of your total body weight. This is considered the standard weight limit for a comfortable trip. Heavier backpacks take much more energy to carry and may throw off your balance. [12] X Research source The amount of stuff you take varies from trip to trip. If you’re going to be close enough to a vehicle, for instance, you can store extra supplies in there. Otherwise, cut down on your supplies as much as possible.
The sleeping bag also boosts up heavier items you pack so they are closer to the center of your back.
Combine items as much as possible to save space. For example, put fuel canisters inside pots. Group your utensils and food items into separate zippered bags.
For instance, store a change of clothes in a bag, then stuff it behind your cookware. The bag of clothing prevents the heavier cookware from shifting while you move.
Keep valuable items here to prevent them from getting lost or damaged in the rest of your pack. The top storage area is also great for keeping extra layers of clothing accessible. Put a rain jacket there, for instance, or a warm shirt if you suspect you will need it.
Limit the amount of items you tie to the outside of your pack. You could lose them if they come loose. They also tend to affect your balance and may get in the way while you walk. Some backpacks have a place to rest your tent or shelter horizontally below your backpack. If you have this option, take advantage of it to free up space inside your pack. The additional storage pouches are also a great place for items that get wet, such as a rain jacket or water filter. Place them there to prevent them from dripping water onto the rest of your supplies.
Keep the campsite conditions in mind. Setting up a lightweight shelter with tarp, rope, and poles is fine during warm weather in wooded areas. Tents are useful in almost all conditions. If you’re bringing a large tent or shelter to house multiple people, you could split the weight between everyone carrying a backpack. For instance, remove the tent poles and give them to different people in your group. If you’re driving to the campsite, bringing a heavier family tent isn’t usually a problem. Opt for lighter tents to save weight when you walk longer distances.
For example, down bags are warm but dry slowly. Synthetic bags are not as insulated but dry off much more quickly than down and may be a better choice for rainy summer trips. Also, bring blankets, pads, and pillows as needed to complete your sleeping bag.
Many commercial campsites have places to start fires, so you may not need a stove. Stoves are useful for trips out in the wilderness or if you plan on walking. You usually do not need to bring a lot of cooking tools and utensils. For an average trip, a single pot and pan is often enough. Pack a spoon and a knife for each camper.
Have a good pair of hiking boots if you plan on doing a lot of walking. Bring along something comfortable and possibly water-resistant, like flip-flops, to wear around camp if you have space in your backpack. Warm, quick-drying materials like polyester and Merino wool are ideal for most long trips. Bring your regular, everyday clothing only if you’re staying close to your campsite.
For short trips without much walking, try bringing a cooler along. It gives you the option of cooking with eggs, meat, and frozen fruits that spoil on other types of trips. If you’re going to be walking a lot, consider getting a water filtration system so you always have a way of obtaining fresh water. Don’t forget pet food if you plan on bringing a pet with you!
A lightweight kayak or fishing gear, for instance, is worth considering if you’re camping near water. You have a lot more options for packing entertainment when you’re able to drive to the campsite. Pack sparingly if you’re going to walk long distances. Avoid bringing electronics in most cases. You often won’t find places to hook them up, so they become dead weight in your pack.
A good first aid-kit consists of items like bandages, antiseptics, and a sewing needle. Remember to include a supply of any prescription medication you take. GPS devices and cell phones are okay to bring, but remember that they may not work in some places. Save them for emergencies and include emergency contact information in case you need it.
