Little Things In Backpacking Matter
Why Little Things Matter
There are little things in life which enhance the overall experience, making reality more enjoyable than without them. Backpacking is no different. Little things in backpacking matter and can make spending time outside away from the comforts of home more enjoyable. There are others which are less impactful but relevant all the same and can make or break an awesome trip.
1- Candy
It may be difficult to believe but having a little candy for the trails or something minor to snack on is HUGE. Even something as innocuous as cough drops. Chocolate bars for camp in front of a fire are amazing after a long day of trekking and traversing. Little rewards for a lot of effort are essential in my opinion. You will never catch me out on the trails without a little something to snack on and enjoy during/after long periods of moving. Try doing the same thing without them and you will understand what it is I mean.
2- Wool Socks
Foot comfort in the backcountry (or in general) is essential. When 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. Wool provides massive amounts of comfort and is a naturally moisture wicking material. Yes, they can be itchy but will last a long time and how can you put a price on your feet? Spend the extra few $ for wool and it will be worth it. Merino wools are generally machine washable and are easy to maintain after years of use. Buy thicker ones for larger boots/colder temps and more thin ones for lighter footwear in warmer climates.
3- The Correct Footwear
I choose to wear shoes which are not the lightest available but do provide high levels of comfort. You can source footwear which is ultra light but they are rarely practical options in the comfort and durability areas. Looking for a middle of the road option which provide protection yet are also mid-weight are usually the winning choice (in my humble opinion). Yes, 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. The law of diminishing returns will apply and you will feel the moment that occurs with footwear.
4- Lightweight, Durable Pack
Having a lighter load always makes a difference. 10 miles and 35 lbs on your back is hellish compared to 10 miles with 20 lbs. A pack which is lightweight, provides support and can take a few snags is ideal. There are many types of packs available but only a small number optimize these three features. When it comes to cost, I go middle of the road. It is nice to have a cutting-edge bag weighing 4oz. In the real world it needs to hold up despite weigh, especially if it is in the $300-400 range. Days of multi-day trips with heavy external, or internal frames, are gone. My lightest pack uses tension to create support in leu of a solid frame. This pack however, will never be as durable. Sacrifices must be made in the right areas to optimize for performance.
5- Multi-Use Items
It is easy to carry everything and the kitchen sink when you are on your first few trips out. Actually I encourage beginners to do exactly this as it develops a keen appreciation for planning and due diligence. If 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. Sporks, multi-tools, stuff sacks (to make a pillow), buffs, bandanas, 550 paracord, duct tape and so many other things have more than one use. This becomes important when making judgement calls on what you need and which tools will accomplish that.
6- Concentrated Materials
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. These are things that reduce weight and don’t sacrifice quality or ability. Concentrated 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. Items like these are highly desirable and worth the time to source and purchase online for those trying to maximize their experience. Carrying a lighter, more powerful version of something is an obvious choice if possible.
7- A Good Book
Downtime to relax and sit in the sun are part of what backpacking is all about. You will likely not be as focused or relaxed when you are able to read in these circumstances compared to regular life. I’ve been able to enjoy reading much more in the backcountry setting. Getting lost in the book is a lot easier I have found. Next time you find yourself 20 miles from the nearest road, consider pulling out a classic like Tom Sawyer and see where it takes you. Reading ranks high on my list of little titled- little things in backpacking matter.
8- Something To Record Info & Ideas
Just like the previous point, you can think in different terms in the wilderness than you are accustomed to everyday. Why not take advantage of this? I’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. Being outdoors away from the stimuli of society provides room for mental and intellectual growth. Some 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.
This List Is By No Means Conclusive
There are so many little things that make different outdoor settings great over OK. I cannot possibly list them all, and besides they are extremely subjective to the individual. Everyone appreciates things differently for various reasons. Some things on my list you may not understand but trying different ones out helps to define what you need to have a great time.
Get out in the wild and see what reveals itself to you as significant or irrelevant and go with it. After you discover enough, all you need to do is bring yourself and be prepared. Be safe and read up on what you need to know about emergencies, skills and navigation (among others). See how much all of the little things in backpacking matter next time you are out there.
