Backpacker Safety - Basics for Beginners

10 Backpacker Safety Basics for Beginners

Beginner backpacker safety is each backpacker's responsibility. Every year we read tragic tales of hikers who never make it back to the trail head alive. Sadly, in the majority of cases their demise could have been prevented by following some very basic backpacker safety guidelines. There are ten simple principles to follow:

1. Always backpack with at least one other person. If one person is injured, another person from the group can assist and possibly save a life. Three or four is an ideal backpacker trip size. This is large enough to have a person or two available to get assistance if need be, and that is small enough to not cause detrimental environmental impact.

2. Pick a trail that is not above your current physical capabilities. This is not a time to test your physical limits. You should not be attempting a trail that is too steep or otherwise challenging for you.

3. Carefully inspect all your equipment and repair or replace broken items. It is not good to arrive at the trail head with totally new equipment that you have not even tried out yet. Even something as small as blisters on your feet because of brand new boots can have serious negative results for you and your buddies. If you know how to light your backpacker stove, then you will probably stay healthy on the trip. All equipment should be tested and tried well in advance of the start of your adventure.

4. Pack the backpack clothing and supplies you will need to stay comfortable in the weather conditions you will encounter. For higher altitudes in the northern hemisphere you will need a wool layer. Packing wool is worth the extra weight these items add. Wool is superior at keeping your body temperature in safe limits even if you get wet and cold. A common mistake many novice backpackers make is to lighten their load by leaving the wool at home.

5. Get all the required backpacking permits and also register with the area agency at the start of your trip. Give a realistic itinerary of your trip with an accurate estimated time of return. This is essential for your safety. The agency governing the land needs to know who is out on a trip and when they will likely return so search and rescue can begin at the earliest opportunity. If you skip this registration step, you might be putting your life in danger.

6. Assign a trip monitor back home, someone who knows when you plan to return and who would call authorities for help if you did not return as planned. As soon as you get back to the trail head call your home base monitor. They need to know you have completed the trip.

7. Get a topo map of the trail before your trip. Does the trail have a terrain difficulty rating? Become familiar with the scale and determine where your current physical condition is on that scale. Pick a trail at least one difficulty level below it. Remember you will be a slower hiker with a pack on your back. And place your map in a waterproof pouch and keep it handy on the trail.

8. Carry a solid flashlight and new spare batteries, plus a small mirror. These items will help signal your location if you need to be found by a rescue plane or helicopter.

9. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and use sunscreen. Snowfields can contribute to sunburn at high altitudes.

10. be realistic about your own limits. Your pack is going to feel heavier than you imagined and you might not get as far as you want to on that first day. Be flexible with your plans. Avoid hiking in the dark to make your pre-chosen destination. Stop hiking at least two hours before nightfall. After setting up your tent and cooking dinner, hike around the vicinity. Make yourself aware of where you are, take note of any geographical landmarks and formations.

Follow these ten basic rules of beginner backpacker safety on your trail adventure. Heeding backpacker safety can mean an enjoyable, safe trip for every beginner backpacker in unfamiliar territory.