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Tips for Conserving Energy While Backpacking

Tips for Conserving Energy While Backpacking
Backpacking is a rewarding experience that can take you through some of the world's most pristine wonders. But conserving energy is as crucial as planning your route, packing emergency supplies, deciphering trail maps and working a compass. The difficult part is exercising personal discipline during your conservation efforts. Remember that taking care of yourself is the most important step in backpacking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Reasonably weighted backpack Protein snacks Clean water Appropriate clothing
  • Reasonably weighted backpack
  • Protein snacks
  • Clean water
  • Appropriate clothing
Step 1
Keep your backpack load as light as possible to keep the weight off your back and legs. Try a few test hikes around your neighborhood or park to determine if the weight is comfortable for your needs. Don't skimp on essentials like water, sunscreen, food and emergency supplies. If you're going on a long-distance backpacking trip, consider a food drop shipping service like Hike-usa.com.
Step 2
Stay warm on cold days with appropriate outdoor gear like sweatshirts, coats, hats, gloves and scarves. On a warmer day, try a lightweight cotton shirt to prevent insect bites and sun exposure. Wear sunscreen, even on a cold day, to prevent sunburn and blistering. If you don't feel well from too much sun or weather exposure, you're at risk for depleting precious energy for backpacking.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water and snack on nuts, protein bars and fruits to keep from running out of fuel and becoming dehydrated. Don't overeat while backpacking to prevent stomach cramps or feeling sluggish. Many backpackers want to lighten their load by skimping on food. Instead, opt for dehydrated options that you can prepare in no time with a little clean water.
Step 4
Avoid hiking in the snow or rain, if possible. Wet and muddy trails are harder to navigate and will take more time to hike than in dry conditions. You can conserve your energy and hike farther on a dry day.
Step 5
Take frequent breaks and take off your backpack. Thoroughly stretch your back, arms and legs to refresh your muscles and prevent cramping. It's easy to want to make good time, especially on a long-distance hike. But overexerting yourself will actually slow down your productivity.
Step 6
Get plenty of rest and refuel with high-protein snack or meal before bedtime. Do not hike while fatigued to prevent energy loss and exhaustion. It's a good idea to take a day off or a series of half-days on long-distance excursions. You can use this time to work on your hiking journal, repack supplies and work on maps and trail guides.

Tips & Warnings

 
If you think you'll need an extra pair of hiking boots mid-way through your trip, ask a friend or retailer to ship them to an upcoming backpacking stop. There's no need to carry any extra weight and compromise your energy conservation. Bring a pair of clean socks in case your hiking boots get wet. Backpacking with damp or cold feet can quickly drain extra energy. Keep your hikes a reasonable length and avoid dehydration and exhaustion. Remember that even if you're not tired, your feet need frequent breaks from walking the trails.
 
If you think you'll need an extra pair of hiking boots mid-way through your trip, ask a friend or retailer to ship them to an upcoming backpacking stop. There's no need to carry any extra weight and compromise your energy conservation.
 
Bring a pair of clean socks in case your hiking boots get wet. Backpacking with damp or cold feet can quickly drain extra energy.
 
Keep your hikes a reasonable length and avoid dehydration and exhaustion. Remember that even if you're not tired, your feet need frequent breaks from walking the trails.
 
If you're dropping rapid weight or experiencing consistent fatigue, see a doctor immediately.

Article Written By Contributing Writer

Write for Trails.com

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