Tips for a first-time backpacker!
July 14, 2010 10:17 PM Subscribe
My first ever backpacking trip is coming up, and I'm pretty much all ready but I was wondering if anyone could offer some advice or share some experiences.
I'm one of four going on this trip, and the only one who has never gone backpacking before.
To give you an idea of what kind of trip it's gonna be, we're gonna be carrying around 30 pounds each and I'd guess that'd we'd only be going about 50ish miles total (as an absolute maximum). Physically, I'm kind of counting on my youth to pull me through since the rest of my group will at least be in their late 50s (although they are still very much in shape, probably more so than most adults I know).
At this point, I'm pretty much just waiting for Sunday to come around so we can leave, and I was wondering if you Mefites had any advice for me or would be willing to share any memorable experiences about backpacking in the meantime.
Thanks!
I'm one of four going on this trip, and the only one who has never gone backpacking before.
To give you an idea of what kind of trip it's gonna be, we're gonna be carrying around 30 pounds each and I'd guess that'd we'd only be going about 50ish miles total (as an absolute maximum). Physically, I'm kind of counting on my youth to pull me through since the rest of my group will at least be in their late 50s (although they are still very much in shape, probably more so than most adults I know).
At this point, I'm pretty much just waiting for Sunday to come around so we can leave, and I was wondering if you Mefites had any advice for me or would be willing to share any memorable experiences about backpacking in the meantime.
Thanks!
Best answer: Try not to bring/wear much cotton. Polyester/polypro/plastic stuff is good. Wool is better.
Spread your sleeping bag out as much as possible immediately after you get up so it can air out and/or dry before you pack up.
Try to be on cooking duty so you're not on dish duty.
Bring Advil but wait a few days before you start taking it if you can.
Pack heavy stuff lower in the pack and close to your back.
Keep the weight on your hips with the hip strap - not on your shoulders.
Bring some comfortable shoes or flip flops for around camp, but be aware of bugs and anything else that might bite.
Notice what the other people are doing - they may know a nifty trick.
Rest in the shade if it's hot (or even if it's not) while you're waiting for the old fellers.
Check out the stars if you get up to pee in the middle of the night.
Enjoy the experience!
posted by powpow at 10:48 PM on July 14, 2010 [2 favorites]
Spread your sleeping bag out as much as possible immediately after you get up so it can air out and/or dry before you pack up.
Try to be on cooking duty so you're not on dish duty.
Bring Advil but wait a few days before you start taking it if you can.
Pack heavy stuff lower in the pack and close to your back.
Keep the weight on your hips with the hip strap - not on your shoulders.
Bring some comfortable shoes or flip flops for around camp, but be aware of bugs and anything else that might bite.
Notice what the other people are doing - they may know a nifty trick.
Rest in the shade if it's hot (or even if it's not) while you're waiting for the old fellers.
Check out the stars if you get up to pee in the middle of the night.
Enjoy the experience!
posted by powpow at 10:48 PM on July 14, 2010 [2 favorites]
Oh, and anything you're bringing (such as Advil, tape, band aids) should take up as little space as possible. Plastic bags are nice. You can wrap lots of duct tape around itself and make it a nice little "packet" to peel pieces off. Advil and band aids can be dumped in a ziploc bag (or double bagged for waterproofing).
Which brings up one more... Bring a large trash bag or 2. They don't take any space or weigh anything, but are good for covering your body or gear if it rains.
posted by powpow at 10:51 PM on July 14, 2010
Which brings up one more... Bring a large trash bag or 2. They don't take any space or weigh anything, but are good for covering your body or gear if it rains.
posted by powpow at 10:51 PM on July 14, 2010
How many days are you doing that 50 miles over? What kind of terrain? Expected weather?
I'm sure your experienced packer buddies covered all this, but in case they haven't:
Zip-Loc bags are the answer to about half of all backpacking problems. They are waterproof and keep smell and ooze in. Bring a few.
Organize your stuff with stuff sacks. For everything besides food, toiletries and your sleeping bag, you can get away with using plastic grocery bags for stuff sacks because they're light as hell and you only need them to last a few days. Food and toiletries need to go in a durable, waterproof bag because at night you will have to tie them up away from animals (assuming you aren't in country where a bear canister would be more appropriate..) Pack your sleeping bag in a 20-30 gallon garbage bag to keep it dry.
For carrying water, plastic soda bottles are hella lighter than Nalgene and pretty durable.
You'll probably pack more than you need but you can put up with it for a week. Try to keep that total weight, including backpack, as close to 30 pounds as you can, though. Less is even better.
I'll let the others chime in with more details on maintaining groinal/thighal comfort, but avoid cotton underwear -- synthetics are best or even going commando. Compression shorts will mitigate chub rub. Indeed, synthetics or wool on top, too.
I've done this a lot, in the rainy but temperate Northeastern U.S. Feel free to ask anything.
posted by Opposite George at 10:53 PM on July 14, 2010
I'm sure your experienced packer buddies covered all this, but in case they haven't:
Zip-Loc bags are the answer to about half of all backpacking problems. They are waterproof and keep smell and ooze in. Bring a few.
Organize your stuff with stuff sacks. For everything besides food, toiletries and your sleeping bag, you can get away with using plastic grocery bags for stuff sacks because they're light as hell and you only need them to last a few days. Food and toiletries need to go in a durable, waterproof bag because at night you will have to tie them up away from animals (assuming you aren't in country where a bear canister would be more appropriate..) Pack your sleeping bag in a 20-30 gallon garbage bag to keep it dry.
For carrying water, plastic soda bottles are hella lighter than Nalgene and pretty durable.
You'll probably pack more than you need but you can put up with it for a week. Try to keep that total weight, including backpack, as close to 30 pounds as you can, though. Less is even better.
I'll let the others chime in with more details on maintaining groinal/thighal comfort, but avoid cotton underwear -- synthetics are best or even going commando. Compression shorts will mitigate chub rub. Indeed, synthetics or wool on top, too.
I've done this a lot, in the rainy but temperate Northeastern U.S. Feel free to ask anything.
posted by Opposite George at 10:53 PM on July 14, 2010
Best answer: If you're hiking in the mountains or have any serious inclines on the trail and get winded, baby steps are the key. Literally one foot in front of the other, slow and steady, is better than taking long strides and having to stop to catch your breath all the time.
On long hikes I find it can sometimes take a little while to get in a good rhythm, but I hit my stride I can knock out a bunch of miles in a blissful, zen-like state of mind. It's not always possible when hiking with a group, if conversation and keeping a pace that's comfortable for everybody is important, but it is one of the most enjoyable parts of hiking for me and I'll sometimes leave the group behind or let them go ahead and catch up with them later in order to achieve it.
Bring plenty of dry clothes. If you wear cotton and sweat, don't count on anything drying out overnight enough to wear it the next day.
Have fun! I'm envious.
posted by Balonious Assault at 10:54 PM on July 14, 2010 [1 favorite]
On long hikes I find it can sometimes take a little while to get in a good rhythm, but I hit my stride I can knock out a bunch of miles in a blissful, zen-like state of mind. It's not always possible when hiking with a group, if conversation and keeping a pace that's comfortable for everybody is important, but it is one of the most enjoyable parts of hiking for me and I'll sometimes leave the group behind or let them go ahead and catch up with them later in order to achieve it.
Bring plenty of dry clothes. If you wear cotton and sweat, don't count on anything drying out overnight enough to wear it the next day.
Have fun! I'm envious.
posted by Balonious Assault at 10:54 PM on July 14, 2010 [1 favorite]
This may be completely obvious, but carry everything you would need to get out by yourself in case you get separated or lost. This should include:
- Good water-resistant maps of the route and surrounding area
- A compass
- A signaling whistle
- Basic water purification. If someone else is carrying the purifier just carry a few iodine tablets and a coffee filter or two as backup.
- A pack of waterproof matches or lighter.
- Electrolyte tablets for sunstroke (Nuun and Zim make these, but watch out for the ones with caffeine). You can live for a long time without food but not without salt if it's hot out.
Make sure you know which types of bears are in the area and how to deal with them if they come near.
DO NOT wear new boots. Wear them in as much as possible before the long trek.
posted by benzenedream at 11:04 PM on July 14, 2010
- Good water-resistant maps of the route and surrounding area
- A compass
- A signaling whistle
- Basic water purification. If someone else is carrying the purifier just carry a few iodine tablets and a coffee filter or two as backup.
- A pack of waterproof matches or lighter.
- Electrolyte tablets for sunstroke (Nuun and Zim make these, but watch out for the ones with caffeine). You can live for a long time without food but not without salt if it's hot out.
Make sure you know which types of bears are in the area and how to deal with them if they come near.
DO NOT wear new boots. Wear them in as much as possible before the long trek.
posted by benzenedream at 11:04 PM on July 14, 2010
Take a look at your stuff before you leave and get rid of any unnecessary items. Think critically about how you can shave off weight.
If you will be crossing any streams, bring lightweight sandals. That way, you keep your socks and boots dry, and you save your feet. Plus having something besides your boots will make the camping part more relaxing.
Finally, don't be afraid to turn back. If you push too hard and have a terrible experience, you may not want to go ever again.
Oh, and have fun!
posted by hot_monster at 12:31 AM on July 15, 2010
If you will be crossing any streams, bring lightweight sandals. That way, you keep your socks and boots dry, and you save your feet. Plus having something besides your boots will make the camping part more relaxing.
Finally, don't be afraid to turn back. If you push too hard and have a terrible experience, you may not want to go ever again.
Oh, and have fun!
posted by hot_monster at 12:31 AM on July 15, 2010
Best answer: Do you have a good fitting pair of breathable socks? I've hiked 30 miles a day without getting blisters...I've never heard of duct taping your heels as someone else recommended. Just make sure your boots\shoes\socks fit well and you'll prevent blisters.
Does your pack fit you really well? Make sure you are familiar with how to adjust it. I'd practice loading your pack up a few times too trying to fit everything in tightly like a game of tetris. Think about what you'll need access to, and when, as far as where things will be.
Is this something you're thinking about doing more of in the future?
If so I'd recommend making a gear list in excel. Weigh everything, list the weight with the item and look at what you have.
Pack only what you absolutely need depending on trip requirements. The lighter you can go the more enjoyable your trip will be. This comes with experience as well but I recommend not taking really any "just in case" stuff as it soon become a whole pack full of crap.
Since you're hiking with other, more experienced people, you'll be able to get away with this even if you mess up your estimations.
I'm pretty basic but not ultralight because I like having a tent. I do 3 season 2 weeks with a 50liter pack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, 1 pair of zip off pants, base layer long sleeve shirt, shirt, water\wind proof soft shell, two pair of socks, sunglasses, 2 1L playtpus collapsible bottles, aqua mira tablets, trekking poles, home made fancy feast stove, 3 cup pot, spoon\fork combo, lighter\firestarter\matches, toothbrush, toothpaste, multiuse wipes, headlamp, camera, 3ft duct tape (wrap around poles), skin tape, superglue, knife, multitool, phone, DEET dropper, map\compass, wallet, hat.
...give or take a few things depending on Spring\Summer\Fall. Winter is obviously a much different kit. Depending on what gear you have you can get your pack weight down to about 10lbs before food and water.
As far as the actual trip goes just lock into a pace that you are comfortable with. This will probably be determined by your group...I'm not sure how quickly you'll be covering the 50 miles but I have a feeling it will be pretty easy going (Like more than 3 days?) I like to hike at a pace I can easily sustain for 8-12 hours.
Hike proud and tall with good posture. Start with very short steps (one foot right in front of the other) this will keep you fresher since your body won't be transferring the load of your pack so far. Once you have an idea of how your body is responding you can lengthen the stride to something less than a normal walking stride distance depending on how you feel.
posted by zephyr_words at 1:01 AM on July 15, 2010 [1 favorite]
Does your pack fit you really well? Make sure you are familiar with how to adjust it. I'd practice loading your pack up a few times too trying to fit everything in tightly like a game of tetris. Think about what you'll need access to, and when, as far as where things will be.
Is this something you're thinking about doing more of in the future?
If so I'd recommend making a gear list in excel. Weigh everything, list the weight with the item and look at what you have.
Pack only what you absolutely need depending on trip requirements. The lighter you can go the more enjoyable your trip will be. This comes with experience as well but I recommend not taking really any "just in case" stuff as it soon become a whole pack full of crap.
Since you're hiking with other, more experienced people, you'll be able to get away with this even if you mess up your estimations.
I'm pretty basic but not ultralight because I like having a tent. I do 3 season 2 weeks with a 50liter pack, tent, sleeping bag, pad, 1 pair of zip off pants, base layer long sleeve shirt, shirt, water\wind proof soft shell, two pair of socks, sunglasses, 2 1L playtpus collapsible bottles, aqua mira tablets, trekking poles, home made fancy feast stove, 3 cup pot, spoon\fork combo, lighter\firestarter\matches, toothbrush, toothpaste, multiuse wipes, headlamp, camera, 3ft duct tape (wrap around poles), skin tape, superglue, knife, multitool, phone, DEET dropper, map\compass, wallet, hat.
...give or take a few things depending on Spring\Summer\Fall. Winter is obviously a much different kit. Depending on what gear you have you can get your pack weight down to about 10lbs before food and water.
As far as the actual trip goes just lock into a pace that you are comfortable with. This will probably be determined by your group...I'm not sure how quickly you'll be covering the 50 miles but I have a feeling it will be pretty easy going (Like more than 3 days?) I like to hike at a pace I can easily sustain for 8-12 hours.
Hike proud and tall with good posture. Start with very short steps (one foot right in front of the other) this will keep you fresher since your body won't be transferring the load of your pack so far. Once you have an idea of how your body is responding you can lengthen the stride to something less than a normal walking stride distance depending on how you feel.
posted by zephyr_words at 1:01 AM on July 15, 2010 [1 favorite]
Hey - sounds like fun. As others have said, break your boots in before you start trekking - I tend to wear mine to work for a couple of weeks. You might find that wearing two pairs of socks helps ward off blisters - one thin slippy pair and a thicker hiking pair - the idea is that the inners slip against the outer. You should also take plenty of pairs of socks - more than you might think you need. Benzenedream's advice is also really important - you should carry kit to look after yourself. If you're hiking anywhere that can be cold or wet then you should also make sure that you can recognise the signs of hypothermia and know what action to take. Most importantly - don't push yourself too hard and enjoy!
posted by prentiz at 1:04 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by prentiz at 1:04 AM on July 15, 2010
From a mental perspective, backpacking can get tough if you continually are focused on the physical challenge of hiking with a heavy pack for miles and hours at a time. It's easy to miss out on a fun time if all you're thinking about is how heavy the pack is or how much your shoulders hurt. Focus on the beauty around you and you'll have a great time.
posted by Diplodocus at 1:43 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by Diplodocus at 1:43 AM on July 15, 2010
Yeah, that duct taping thing was new to me too. I wouldn't pick a long trip to try it for the first time as you don't know what kind of reaction you could have, plus if the tape comes loose/rolls up on itself you've now got a blister-making machine doing its thing with every step.
I'd stick with the old advice for avoiding blisters, at least for this time: boots that fit well -- not tight, but not so loose that your feet are moving around in them -- plus a pair of thin thin thin liner socks inside your hiking socks. That Band-Aid stuff sounds good to carry, though. Use as directed only if you need it. Also get a pack of moleskin and read up on how to use it, just in case.
posted by Opposite George at 1:47 AM on July 15, 2010
I'd stick with the old advice for avoiding blisters, at least for this time: boots that fit well -- not tight, but not so loose that your feet are moving around in them -- plus a pair of thin thin thin liner socks inside your hiking socks. That Band-Aid stuff sounds good to carry, though. Use as directed only if you need it. Also get a pack of moleskin and read up on how to use it, just in case.
posted by Opposite George at 1:47 AM on July 15, 2010
Nthing hiking socks with inner thin liner socks. Works to prevent blisters for me.
Also - as soon as you feel irritation in your feet, stop and do something about it (moleskin, blister packs, change of socks, etc.). By the time it starts hurting it's too late for preventing blisters.
posted by benzenedream at 2:21 AM on July 15, 2010
Also - as soon as you feel irritation in your feet, stop and do something about it (moleskin, blister packs, change of socks, etc.). By the time it starts hurting it's too late for preventing blisters.
posted by benzenedream at 2:21 AM on July 15, 2010
You're not planning on wearing jeans, right? DO NOT wear jeans-- they are about the worst choice for hiking in.
There will be ticks in the woods at this time of year, but I'm sure you're more experienced friends will help on that front.
Hat. Even if you don't normally wear a hat, hats keep ticks off your head and hats protect you from the sun.
Take water in small sips even when you don't feel thirsty. Summer hiking can be very dehydrating and the symptoms sneak up on you-- dizziness, nausea, headache. That's what the salt pills are for (my husband likes to snack on pickles.)
It's too late for you, but an old hiking trick is to run around barefoot as much as possible in between running around in your boots pre-hike. The point is to toughen up your feet.
If you can manage it before Sunday, I recommend you read-- or even better listen to- A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson which is a humorous account of hiking in the Appalachians with a over-weight, non-hiking friend.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:20 AM on July 15, 2010
There will be ticks in the woods at this time of year, but I'm sure you're more experienced friends will help on that front.
Hat. Even if you don't normally wear a hat, hats keep ticks off your head and hats protect you from the sun.
Take water in small sips even when you don't feel thirsty. Summer hiking can be very dehydrating and the symptoms sneak up on you-- dizziness, nausea, headache. That's what the salt pills are for (my husband likes to snack on pickles.)
It's too late for you, but an old hiking trick is to run around barefoot as much as possible in between running around in your boots pre-hike. The point is to toughen up your feet.
If you can manage it before Sunday, I recommend you read-- or even better listen to- A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson which is a humorous account of hiking in the Appalachians with a over-weight, non-hiking friend.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 5:20 AM on July 15, 2010
It's really tempting the first time you go backpacking to hike quickly for a short period of time and then stop for breath, and then start hiking quickly again. It's better--and more energy efficient--to find a slower, steady pace that you can maintain for long stretches of time. I don't know if you play sports, but if you do, think of it in terms of running warm-ups, or going for a long jog: if you go for a 3k run, you don't run really fast for a block and then stop and take a drink, then run two blocks and stop and take another drink, etc. You find a pace and try to maintain it the whole time. That's what you're trying to do with backpacking too.
My rough metric for a good pace when hiking is: if you can talk comfortably with your companions while you are walking, you're going at a good pace no matter what the terrain is. If you're gasping for breath between words or not talking at all, then you're going too fast. It's possible to go up hills without getting massively out-of-breath.
Also, resist the urge to take off your pack every time you stop (if you find a good steady pace, this won't be such a problem). It takes up a lot of extra energy to sit down and drop your pack and then pick it up again every ten minutes. So for a 10-15 minute snack break: yes, take it off. For a quick water-break: no, better to stay standing with your pack on.
Know that backpacking is uncomfortable at first--because your pack is kind of heavy and awkward and unfamiliar--but every backpacker has 2 awesome things going for them: 1) the longer you're out there, the stronger you get, and so hiking continually gets easier and 2) the longer you're out there, the lighter your pack gets, because you eat more and more of your food, and that is what weighs the most. This is a very excellent combination.
So if your pack on the first day feels like someone stuck Godzilla in there, don't get disheartened. Unless you really do have a giant, malicious mutant-dinosaur in there, that is.
Have fun! Enjoy the scenery and the stars! If you've never been in the middle of nowhere before, the stars on a clear night will absolutely blow you away.
posted by colfax at 5:39 AM on July 15, 2010
My rough metric for a good pace when hiking is: if you can talk comfortably with your companions while you are walking, you're going at a good pace no matter what the terrain is. If you're gasping for breath between words or not talking at all, then you're going too fast. It's possible to go up hills without getting massively out-of-breath.
Also, resist the urge to take off your pack every time you stop (if you find a good steady pace, this won't be such a problem). It takes up a lot of extra energy to sit down and drop your pack and then pick it up again every ten minutes. So for a 10-15 minute snack break: yes, take it off. For a quick water-break: no, better to stay standing with your pack on.
Know that backpacking is uncomfortable at first--because your pack is kind of heavy and awkward and unfamiliar--but every backpacker has 2 awesome things going for them: 1) the longer you're out there, the stronger you get, and so hiking continually gets easier and 2) the longer you're out there, the lighter your pack gets, because you eat more and more of your food, and that is what weighs the most. This is a very excellent combination.
So if your pack on the first day feels like someone stuck Godzilla in there, don't get disheartened. Unless you really do have a giant, malicious mutant-dinosaur in there, that is.
Have fun! Enjoy the scenery and the stars! If you've never been in the middle of nowhere before, the stars on a clear night will absolutely blow you away.
posted by colfax at 5:39 AM on July 15, 2010
If you can manage it at all between now and Sunday, I highly recommend loading up your backpack and going on a couple of short local hikes, to get used to extended periods of walking with all that stuff on your back. When I was in Boy Scouts, my troop did a 50 mile hike at Philmont, and we did at least 3 or 4 conditioning hikes of a few miles each before the actual trip. It was definitely a good thing for both us teenage kids and the adult leaders who went with us, because the furthest most of us had lugged our packs to that point was maybe 100 yards from parking lots to campsites.
Also, it's possible that hiking wisdom and technology has changed in the last 20 years, but I was very well served by wearing two layers of socks: wool socks over a thin polypropylene liner. The liner wicked sweat away to the wool, and having two layers reduced friction and thus (ideally) blisters.
Also, bring lots of jerky (or other high-energy snacks) and eat small amounts frequently to keep yourself fueled. And of course, drink as much water as you can within the limitations of what you can carry, and what you can count on having access to along the way.
Have fun!
posted by usonian at 6:13 AM on July 15, 2010
Also, it's possible that hiking wisdom and technology has changed in the last 20 years, but I was very well served by wearing two layers of socks: wool socks over a thin polypropylene liner. The liner wicked sweat away to the wool, and having two layers reduced friction and thus (ideally) blisters.
Also, bring lots of jerky (or other high-energy snacks) and eat small amounts frequently to keep yourself fueled. And of course, drink as much water as you can within the limitations of what you can carry, and what you can count on having access to along the way.
Have fun!
posted by usonian at 6:13 AM on July 15, 2010
A Walk in the Woods is a good, and funny book. But there where parts of it that completely struck me as bad practice for being in the wilderness. So, by all means read the book, just don't take it as advice on what to do for the most part.
posted by edgeways at 6:15 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by edgeways at 6:15 AM on July 15, 2010
Bring a camp pillow, and make sure you have a good pad with a chair option- crazy creek makes one to fit on therm-a-rests as well as mountain hardware.
I will go a step further with socks and recommend bridgedales- the best socks for hiking EVAR!
Chap-stick- my lips always get really dry hiking/camping.
Stay away from boots and stick with tennies, your feet, and the rest of your body, will thank you.
Ear plugs if your tent mate snores.
Don't forget part of a book/cards as well. Cut a book in half and carry the part you want to read around camp.
posted by TheBones at 6:17 AM on July 15, 2010
I will go a step further with socks and recommend bridgedales- the best socks for hiking EVAR!
Chap-stick- my lips always get really dry hiking/camping.
Stay away from boots and stick with tennies, your feet, and the rest of your body, will thank you.
Ear plugs if your tent mate snores.
Don't forget part of a book/cards as well. Cut a book in half and carry the part you want to read around camp.
posted by TheBones at 6:17 AM on July 15, 2010
Best answer: Don't assume your youth will help you. If these guys are experienced backpackers they're probably pretty hardcore. In my backpacking days my scrawny, beer-gutted pasty white ass would regularly kick the asses of muscleheads who had never done anything physical outside of the weight room.
Drink before you get thirsty. Eat before you get hungry. Seriously. Keeping well fed and hydrated is about the most important thing you can do on a backpacking trip. This is why trail mix is so popular. Just keep snacking on it throughout the day.
Don't pick this trip to try new foods. Bring stuff that you'll enjoy eating. Powerbars and the like are evil, unless you already know you enjoy them.
Bring a small repair kit. All you need is a couple feet of stiff wire, some electrical zip ties (these are awesome) a couple trash bags, a small bit of duct tape, and any specialized kits for your stove, tent, or eyeglasses. Despite what people may tell you, duct tape is overrated on the trail. It has its uses (patching climbing pants that you've just put crampons through) but I find most of the time it's hard to work with in the moist, dirty conditions one finds on a backpacking trip. Electrical ties are your friend.
50 miles is a long way for your first trip. How many days?
For blisters, and you WILL get blisters your first time out, bring plenty of moleskin (available at the "foot care" section of any drug or outdoor store) and some more duct tape. Put the moleskin on the blister (or hot spot BEFORE a blister forms) and secure it with plenty of duct or first aid tape so it doesn't bunch up in your boot and make things worse.
Really it's about taking care of yourself as much as possible before things get out of hand. If you're feeling a hot spot form, take care of it. If you're thirsty or hungry, take care of it. If you need to take a dump, take care of it. Almost nothing will get better on a backpack if you just wait it out, it will only get worse.
It's also about knowing your body and how it works, and on a backpack it works differently than it might at work or even at the gym. On your first trip don't be afraid to stop and fix something if something doesn't feel right. A ten minute break now is better than a half-day emergency (or 18 hour litter carry) tomorrow.
It's not a race. Better to have a long day of slow and steady than a short day of breakneck speed, unless you already know that's your thing.
Most of all, have fun. It's about being out in the woods with friends, not about killing yourself or proving that you're hardcore. Stop and enjoy things.
Have fun!
posted by bondcliff at 6:21 AM on July 15, 2010
Drink before you get thirsty. Eat before you get hungry. Seriously. Keeping well fed and hydrated is about the most important thing you can do on a backpacking trip. This is why trail mix is so popular. Just keep snacking on it throughout the day.
Don't pick this trip to try new foods. Bring stuff that you'll enjoy eating. Powerbars and the like are evil, unless you already know you enjoy them.
Bring a small repair kit. All you need is a couple feet of stiff wire, some electrical zip ties (these are awesome) a couple trash bags, a small bit of duct tape, and any specialized kits for your stove, tent, or eyeglasses. Despite what people may tell you, duct tape is overrated on the trail. It has its uses (patching climbing pants that you've just put crampons through) but I find most of the time it's hard to work with in the moist, dirty conditions one finds on a backpacking trip. Electrical ties are your friend.
50 miles is a long way for your first trip. How many days?
For blisters, and you WILL get blisters your first time out, bring plenty of moleskin (available at the "foot care" section of any drug or outdoor store) and some more duct tape. Put the moleskin on the blister (or hot spot BEFORE a blister forms) and secure it with plenty of duct or first aid tape so it doesn't bunch up in your boot and make things worse.
Really it's about taking care of yourself as much as possible before things get out of hand. If you're feeling a hot spot form, take care of it. If you're thirsty or hungry, take care of it. If you need to take a dump, take care of it. Almost nothing will get better on a backpack if you just wait it out, it will only get worse.
It's also about knowing your body and how it works, and on a backpack it works differently than it might at work or even at the gym. On your first trip don't be afraid to stop and fix something if something doesn't feel right. A ten minute break now is better than a half-day emergency (or 18 hour litter carry) tomorrow.
It's not a race. Better to have a long day of slow and steady than a short day of breakneck speed, unless you already know that's your thing.
Most of all, have fun. It's about being out in the woods with friends, not about killing yourself or proving that you're hardcore. Stop and enjoy things.
Have fun!
posted by bondcliff at 6:21 AM on July 15, 2010
A walking stick is always helpful. Don't worry too much about how high tech your boots are. As TheBones says, comfy sneaks can be just as good if not better (every guide I saw in the Himalayas was wearing Chucks or flip flops). The one piece of snazzy gear I would highly recommend is a Platy water bottle. Take lots of pictures too.
posted by Go Banana at 6:36 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by Go Banana at 6:36 AM on July 15, 2010
Great advice in here!
I'd second bondcliff's advice to eat and drink before you think you need to. I camp with a guy who eats the same lunch he eats for sitting at a desk all day and then spends the whole trip wondering why he's so spacey and tired during camping trips. He's currently convinced he needs protein shakes for breakfast. Snack every hour if you're exerting yourself. Drink frequently. I tend to bring powdered Gatorade. It adds some calories and electrolytes to keep me going.
Also, if you want to take a mini break, sometimes it's nice to just lean back against a tree with your pack still on. It takes the weight off of you but you don't have to pick it back up again when you're ready to get going again.
Talk with your campmates and find out if they expect you to carry any of the group gear. It's not unusual for people to split the tent parts and each carry half.
posted by advicepig at 6:47 AM on July 15, 2010
I'd second bondcliff's advice to eat and drink before you think you need to. I camp with a guy who eats the same lunch he eats for sitting at a desk all day and then spends the whole trip wondering why he's so spacey and tired during camping trips. He's currently convinced he needs protein shakes for breakfast. Snack every hour if you're exerting yourself. Drink frequently. I tend to bring powdered Gatorade. It adds some calories and electrolytes to keep me going.
Also, if you want to take a mini break, sometimes it's nice to just lean back against a tree with your pack still on. It takes the weight off of you but you don't have to pick it back up again when you're ready to get going again.
Talk with your campmates and find out if they expect you to carry any of the group gear. It's not unusual for people to split the tent parts and each carry half.
posted by advicepig at 6:47 AM on July 15, 2010
Drink more water than you think you need...your urine needs to be clear and copious.
Bring a bag of GORP...munch on it while you walk or during short breaks, etc. It helps keep your energy up.
Address hotspots/blisters as soon as you notice them. This might make the difference between having an annoying bit of moleskin on your foot for the rest of the trip or having a nasty incredibly painful blister on your foot for the rest of the trip.
posted by schyler523 at 7:03 AM on July 15, 2010
Bring a bag of GORP...munch on it while you walk or during short breaks, etc. It helps keep your energy up.
Address hotspots/blisters as soon as you notice them. This might make the difference between having an annoying bit of moleskin on your foot for the rest of the trip or having a nasty incredibly painful blister on your foot for the rest of the trip.
posted by schyler523 at 7:03 AM on July 15, 2010
Hey hempgranola, what sort of terrain will you be hiking through?
Hiking (particularly during summer, where there are relatively few environmental factors to worry about) is all a mind-game. The amount of fun you have is a direct result of your attitude: Some of the most fun trips I've taken have been beset with problems, and some of the most boring and miserable I've taken have been executed perfectly.
Having said that, I'm also n'thing the "take care of things before they become a problem" camp. It may be true that you can stay happy and positive with sunburns and blisters, but it's a hell of a lot easier without.
Good luck, and have fun.
posted by cirgue at 7:12 AM on July 15, 2010
Hiking (particularly during summer, where there are relatively few environmental factors to worry about) is all a mind-game. The amount of fun you have is a direct result of your attitude: Some of the most fun trips I've taken have been beset with problems, and some of the most boring and miserable I've taken have been executed perfectly.
Having said that, I'm also n'thing the "take care of things before they become a problem" camp. It may be true that you can stay happy and positive with sunburns and blisters, but it's a hell of a lot easier without.
Good luck, and have fun.
posted by cirgue at 7:12 AM on July 15, 2010
Have one of your more experienced friends go through your pack before you leave. They can show you how to minimize the amount of weight you carry, remove items you just won't need, and add things you will. Each ounce off your back is one more ounce of hiking enjoyment.
When you are actually out on your hike, you might have a tendency to get fixated on what your body is doing. 50 miles is a long stretch for your first time out, so you might feel some aches and pains. Enjoy them, but don't forget to stop, breathe, and enjoy the scenery too.
posted by boba at 7:42 AM on July 15, 2010
When you are actually out on your hike, you might have a tendency to get fixated on what your body is doing. 50 miles is a long stretch for your first time out, so you might feel some aches and pains. Enjoy them, but don't forget to stop, breathe, and enjoy the scenery too.
posted by boba at 7:42 AM on July 15, 2010
Toilet paper!
And, although keeping your pack weight to a minimum is important, and for the most part you should bring only the bare necessities...there is something to be said for stashing away a little treat for the last leg of your trip. Something impractical yet tasty, like chocolate or cheese, can be a lifesaver after four days of dehydrated food!
posted by Pomo at 7:53 AM on July 15, 2010
And, although keeping your pack weight to a minimum is important, and for the most part you should bring only the bare necessities...there is something to be said for stashing away a little treat for the last leg of your trip. Something impractical yet tasty, like chocolate or cheese, can be a lifesaver after four days of dehydrated food!
posted by Pomo at 7:53 AM on July 15, 2010
Don't take your boots off until you are done hiking for the day, e.g. don't take them off during a quick rest stop. Your feet will swell and you'll never get the boots on comfortably again.
Cotton Kills. Wear poly-pro or wool.
Avoid lancing a blister. It'll hurt even more if you do and it'll get infected.
Don't be an idiot, ask your buddies for advice if you're not sure about something. This is a serious hike for a newbie, don't be afraid to speak up!
Have a great time!
posted by InsanePenguin at 8:11 AM on July 15, 2010
Cotton Kills. Wear poly-pro or wool.
Avoid lancing a blister. It'll hurt even more if you do and it'll get infected.
Don't be an idiot, ask your buddies for advice if you're not sure about something. This is a serious hike for a newbie, don't be afraid to speak up!
Have a great time!
posted by InsanePenguin at 8:11 AM on July 15, 2010
Best answer: Keep a journal. You won't have tv to watch or a computer to play with, so you'll have down time at night. It will help you remember the funny little that happen and record all the interesting birds you see. You could even get some of your friends to write in it. Then, when you get home and start organizing your pictures, you'll have lots of material for writing captions, scrapbooking, or just remembering where you were.
posted by TrarNoir at 8:47 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by TrarNoir at 8:47 AM on July 15, 2010
I completely disagree with InsanePenguin - my hiking experience has been that at any lengthy break it is a great idea to take off your boots and your socks and give your feet a break and give your socks a chance to dry out - especially key if you're hiking in a hot dry place.
posted by leslies at 9:38 AM on July 15, 2010
posted by leslies at 9:38 AM on July 15, 2010
Response by poster: I just marked a few, but all such great advice here.
I should of elaborated a bit more, the trip is going to be 5 days long, and we're only going about 25 miles, even though I assumed we'd be going further.
After reading all of these answers, I'm even more excited to go! Huzzah!
Thanks! :o)
posted by hempgranola at 12:13 PM on July 16, 2010
I should of elaborated a bit more, the trip is going to be 5 days long, and we're only going about 25 miles, even though I assumed we'd be going further.
After reading all of these answers, I'm even more excited to go! Huzzah!
Thanks! :o)
posted by hempgranola at 12:13 PM on July 16, 2010
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