It Takes Some Planning For Backpacking Trip

Sun., May 17, 1998

What to take backpacking for a weekend or longer:

The 10 essentials: First-aid kit, sunglasses, flashlight (and extra batteries), map and compass, waterproof matches, fire starter, knife, water or water-treatment kit, extra clothing, extra food.

For your feet: Boots, lightweight wool or synthetic hiking socks, sock liners and extra socks.

For your stomach: Camp stove, fuel, pots/pans, utensils and potholder, mug and bowl, spice kit, water bottles and purification tablets or filter, food, large stuff sack and accessory cord (50) feet.

For your eyes: Sun hat and sunglasses, flashlight or headlamp.

For your back: framepack that fits well and is big enough to carry your load, but not too big.

For your body: Clothing for worst possible weather, rain gear, layers, extra clothing.

For a good night’s rest: shelter (tent), ground cloth, sleeping bag, sleeping pad.

For your comfort and safety: Moleskin (for blisters), toilet paper, hand towel or bandanna, latrine shovel, toiletries, camp footwear (sandals), insect repellent, candle lantern, whistle, sunscreen.

Miscellaneous: Zip-lock bags, trash bags, camera/film, watch, binoculars, toys or games, field books/hiking guides. BACKPACKING TIPS Know your limits. Figure on carrying between a third and a fourth of your body weight. If you’re a 175-pound man, that would mean your total pack weight should be about 44 pounds or less, unless you’re in great shape. Most three-season backpackers carry 30-50 pounds. Pack the heaviest things closest to your back and relatively high. With an internal frame pack, that means your sleeping bag goes in first, followed by clothes, food and cooking supplies (stove, fuel), food. Plan for accidents. Wrap sleeping bag and clothes in plastic bags to double protect from rain or an unexpected swim to a creek. Check lids on “spill-proof” bottles and tubes of items such as honey and peanut butter. If you have any doubts, seal them into Zip-loc bags. Think small. Repackage your food at home, taking only the amount of coffee, cereal, crackers, etc., you’ll need. Think ahead. Make sure the items you might need quickly during your hike - rain gear, jacket, sunscreen, water - are easily accessible. And try to pack your tent in a part of your pack you can access quickly and easily, in case you arrive at your campsite during a rainstorm.

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