There are little things in life which enhance the overall experience, making reality more enjoyable than without them. \u00a0Backpacking is no different. \u00a0Little things in backpacking matter and can make spending time outside away from the comforts of home more enjoyable. \u00a0There are others which are less impactful but relevant all the same and can make or break an awesome trip.<\/p>\n
It may be difficult to believe but having a little candy for the trails or something minor to snack on is HUGE. \u00a0Even something as innocuous as cough drops. \u00a0Chocolate bars for camp in front of a fire are amazing after a long day of trekking and traversing. \u00a0Little rewards for a lot of effort are essential in my opinion. \u00a0You will never catch me out on the trails without a little something to snack on and enjoy during\/after long periods of moving. \u00a0Try doing the same thing without them and you will understand what it is I mean.<\/p>\n
Foot comfort in the backcountry (or in general) is essential. \u00a0When I am out in the woods on the trails or blazing my own paths, two of the last things I want on my mind are the feet below me. \u00a0Wool provides massive amounts of comfort and is a naturally moisture wicking material. \u00a0Yes, they can be itchy but will last a long time and how can you put a price on your feet? \u00a0Spend the extra few $ for wool and it will be worth it. \u00a0Merino wools are generally machine washable and are easy to maintain after years of use. \u00a0Buy thicker ones for larger boots\/colder temps and more thin ones for lighter footwear in warmer climates.<\/p>\n
I choose to wear shoes which are not the lightest available but do provide high levels of comfort. \u00a0You can source footwear which is ultra light but they are rarely practical options in the comfort and durability areas. \u00a0Looking for a middle of the road option which provide protection yet are also mid-weight are usually the winning choice (in my humble opinion). \u00a0Yes, it would be very nice in one respect to have less weighing me down but you will eventually sacrifice weight for durability on a long enough timeline. \u00a0The law of diminishing returns will apply and you will feel the moment that occurs with footwear.<\/p>\n
Having a lighter load always makes a difference. \u00a010 miles and 35 lbs on your back is hellish compared to 10 miles with 20 lbs. \u00a0A pack which is lightweight, provides support and can take a few snags is ideal. \u00a0There are many types of packs available but only a small number optimize these three features. \u00a0When it comes to cost, I go middle of the road. \u00a0It is nice to have a cutting-edge bag weighing 4oz. \u00a0In the real world it needs to hold up despite weigh, especially if it is in the $300-400 range. \u00a0Days of multi-day trips with heavy external, or internal frames, are gone. \u00a0My lightest pack uses tension to create support in leu of a solid frame. \u00a0This pack however, will never be as durable. \u00a0Sacrifices must be made in the right areas to optimize for performance.<\/p>\n
It is easy to carry everything and the kitchen sink when you are on your first few trips out. \u00a0Actually I encourage beginners to do exactly this as it develops a keen appreciation for planning and due diligence. \u00a0If you start out knowing and feeling what 40 lbs in the wrong pack feels like, image what 20-25 lbs will be on the same 30 mile 2-day trek. \u00a0Sporks, multi-tools, stuff sacks (to make a pillow), buffs, bandanas, 550 paracord, duct tape and so many other things have more than one use. \u00a0This becomes important when making judgement calls on what you need and which tools will accomplish that.<\/p>\n
2 oz of soap that can last a few weeks, micro rolls of ducts tape which unravel to +20′ and a small bottle of instant coffee that will yield 40-50 cups. \u00a0These are things that reduce weight and don’t sacrifice quality or ability. \u00a0Concentrated soap, dried up toothpaste and many other things essential to your health and well-being but weigh significantly less than their home-use counterparts are key. \u00a0Items like these are highly desirable and worth the time to source and purchase online for those trying to maximize their experience. \u00a0Carrying a lighter, more powerful version of something is an obvious choice if possible.<\/p>\n
Downtime to relax and sit in the sun are part of what backpacking is all about. \u00a0You will likely not be as focused or relaxed when you are able to read in these circumstances compared to regular life. \u00a0I’ve been able to enjoy reading much more in the backcountry setting. \u00a0Getting lost in the book is a lot easier I have found. \u00a0Next time you find yourself 20 miles from the nearest road, consider pulling out a classic like\u00a0Tom Sawyer<\/em> and see where it takes you. \u00a0Reading ranks high on my list of little titled- little things in backpacking matter.<\/p>\n Just like the previous point, you can think in different terms in the wilderness than you are accustomed to everyday. \u00a0Why not take advantage of this? \u00a0I’m always coming up with different way to think of things, ideas or concepts that would otherwise be much more difficult to attain at home or in a city. \u00a0Being outdoors away from the stimuli of society provides room for mental and intellectual growth. \u00a0Some of my most practical and positive thoughts have occurred when I’m in the woods, concerned only with what is going on at that time.<\/p>\n There are so many little things that make different outdoor settings great over OK. \u00a0I cannot possibly list them all, and besides they are extremely subjective to the individual. \u00a0Everyone appreciates things differently for various reasons. \u00a0Some things on my list you may not understand but trying different ones out helps to define what you need to have a great time.<\/p>\n Get out in the wild and see what reveals itself to you as significant or irrelevant and go with it. \u00a0After you discover enough, all you need to do is bring yourself and be prepared. \u00a0Be safe and read up on what you need to know about emergencies, skills and navigation (among others). \u00a0See how much all of the little things in backpacking matter next time you are out there.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"8- Something To Record Info & Ideas<\/h2>\n
This List Is By No Means Conclusive<\/h1>\n