Beginner Backpacker Equipment Safety Basics
Beginner backpacker safety begins with obtaining the best backpacking equipment and supplies you can. It is imperative for every novice to know how to choose the best equipment while planning for that first exciting backpacker trip. What are the ten essential beginner backpacker equipment items every backpacker should carry to assure a safe trip?
1. A pair of substantial all-leather hiking boots, water-proofed before the trip, and worn on a few local hikes before your trip. These are an absolute necessity for comfort and safety. If you develop an infected blister you might not be able to walk out on your own. It is essential that the boots have been worn enough by you to have conformed to the shape of your foot. Waterproof the boots with neatsfoot oil and waterproof them once again right before the trip. Keeping your feet dry is of utmost importance for your backpacker safety. Your safety depends on your feet!
2. Waterproof tent - note: practice setting up your tent many times before the trip. There are so many suitable backpacking tents on the market that you need not concern yourself with which one you choose. Learning how to quickly set up your tent before your trip is very important. Practice until you feel you could set up your tent in the wind and rain in just a few minutes.
3. Sturdy frame pack with padded shoulder and belt. If the pack is not waterproof buy a waterproof backpack cover. Your whole trip will be ruined if your supplies get soaked. Your sleeping bag must remain dry regardless of how much rain you might have to walk in.
4. Silk or polyproplylene inner layer for a cold, rainy climate. These are good for conserving body heat.
5. Backpacking stove of any type or brand. All that matters is that you know how to use it. If the stove is new be sure it works properly and that you know how to light it easily. Ask yourself how you will light this stove in the wind. If the stove is old clean it thoroughly and be sure all parts are working. Backpacking stoves often get clogged on the trail, so start off with a clean one!
6. More stove fuel than you think you will need. If someone in your group becomes injured, you will most likely be spending an extra day on the trail. You must have a working stove for that unplanned day.
7. Ample dehydrated food for entire trip, plus extra just in case you have an additional day because of illness or injury or maybe even getting lost. If you encounter another backpacker group needing assistance you could offer some of your extra food.
8. Sleeping bag rated for the climate conditions you will encounter. You don't want to be too hot or too cold inside it. Do some research and learn what the temperature will be for the elevations where you expect to be setting up camp each night.
9. More socks than you think you will need. Your whole trip depends on your feet staying warm, dry, and comfortable. You will be glad you packed an extra pair of socks or two. You will be amazed at how easy it is to end up with wet socks, despite all your preparations. You will be glad to have that extra pair of dry socks, and your safety might depend on it.
10. First aid kit large enough for the size of group you are backpacking with. Choose carefully and be generous. You can split up the first aid supplies among all members of the group or else take turns carrying the complete kit, switching off as needed.
Following these basic rules for backpacker equipment can provide beginner backpacker safety, and that means an enjoyable, safe trip for every backpacker on your trip.
