How to Pack for a Hike

There are a few things you need to consider before you begin to pack for your next hiking trip. The nature of the location you will be hiking and the weather conditions that are forecast for that day are important things to keep in mind. Having the supplies and equipment you need for a successful hike will make the experience a pleasant one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Make a list of all of the items you will need to pack for your hiking trip. Sort the list by supplies, equipment and food. Keep this list handy until everything is packed securely and ready for use.

Step 2

Gather all of the supplies and equipment from your list and lay them out on a solid surface or table. Separate them weight, from the lightest to the heaviest and also by convenience, keeping the most-used items--such as water, sunscreen and knives--in outside compartments or on the top of the inside of the backpack.

Step 3

Put items into the backpack, beginning with the heaviest at the bottom and interlaying with lighter to medium-weight objects until you have reached the top. Keep items that are breakable or fragile--such as glasses, your cell phone and food--at the top inside of your backpack or gear bag. Bottled water or binoculars can be stored on the outside of the backpack if there are compartments to accommodate more items.

Step 4

Use bungee cords to attach bulky items--such as trek poles and rock-climbing gear--to the top of the backpack Maximize efficiency and space by wrapping rope and climbing gear around trek poles and walking sticks. Insert lightweight items like blankets or even jackets into this bundle; this will free up room in your backpack or hiking bag.

Tips & Warnings

If you intend to camp out, you can use bungee cords to attach a tent or sleeping bag to the backpack.

Keep bulky items proportioned correctly to avoid physical strain or injury. Keep the largest amount of weight to the middle back area of the backpack and distribute excess weight throughout.

Do not strain or pick up heavy objects if you have back injuries or extreme discomfort.

Article Written By Julie

Julie is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer. She enjoys hiking and camping the North Woods of Michigan, as well as remote regions of Canada. She spends her free time backpacking and exploring new and unchartered territory on all of her outdoor expeditions.

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