Nathaniel Whittle of Texas is an experienced backpacker, outdoorsman, and travel blogger. In the article below, Nathaniel Whittle explains some of the common mistakes made by new people getting into sometimes demanding activity, from taking too much stuff, to not wearing the right clothing.
“Getting away” means something entirely different to backpackers.
Many people value a vacation replete with great food, a comfy hotel bed, and unwinding by a pool. Nathaniel Whittle of Texas explains that backpackers prefer the calming solitude of the outdoors, the accomplishment of self-sufficiency, and setting up a tent next to a roaring fire.
That’s what makes this sport so appealing for so many. It’s a breath of fresh air in every sense. Backpacking is an easy hobby to get into, but it’s also easy for new backpackers to make some common mistakes, from picking the right (and right amount) of gear to preparing properly for any obstacles, such as weather.
Ready to go out into the great outdoors? Nathaniel Whittle of Texas says to make sure you’re exploring with confidence by avoiding some of these frequent backpacking missteps.
Doing Too Much on Your First Journey
Nathaniel Whittle of Texas explains that backpacking technically means anything more than a same-day out and back trip. While it’s tempting to do more if you have the time, it’s usually best for beginning backpackers to stick to just one overnight trip. Think of it as a trial run for future backpacking trips.
Plan a relatively light hike (perhaps 10 miles or so) on a trail that’s considered easy in length and accommodating to carrying gear. And, of course, take breaks when needed explains Nathaniel Whittle of Texas.
Not Having Good Navigational Resources
Even well-trodden, easier trails with helpful signage require good navigation. Nathaniel Whittle of Texas says don’t forget a map or a compass. Downloading a GPS hiking app or bringing along a handheld GPS device is highly beneficial — as is telling a few people the exact details of a backpacking destination and the length of a trip.
One of the most important navigational tips is also one of the easiest to remember: Always stay on the trail.
Packing Too Much Gear
It’s one thing to be prepared, but it’s another to overdo the preparation. First, check off the essentials: a proper backpack, the right clothes, a phone, ID, a tent, sleeping pad or bag, a water bottle or bladder, and lightweight meals or snacks you need.
Nathaniel Whittle of Texas says to then move on to vital emergency gear, such as a navigation tool, a first aid kit, and some sort of all-purpose tool (like a Swiss army knife).
From there, determine which non-essentials can be included. These may include a camera/journal, a towel, and a headlight or lantern.
Forgetting to Test Gear
Picking the right gear is just the beginning. Nathaniel Whittle of Texas recommends that you be sure to test out any gear you’ve never used before to ensure you can use everything properly while backpacking. Practice setting up your tent and how to filter water.
Break-in those new hiking boots a little bit and try out a cooking stove or camera. Practice walking with hiking poles.
Not Checking on the Weather
Nathaniel Whittle of Texas says a good part of backpacking gear, especially clothing, is tied to the weather conditions, so be sure to thoroughly check the forecast right up until a trip begins. Use a source that can accurately pinpoint what it will be like on the exact route and at various elevations, such as weather.gov.
And don’t forget that weather quickly changes with elevation. About every 1,000 feet, temperatures drop about 3 degrees.
While on a trip, pay close attention to any signs of bad weather. If clouds are quickly forming or a rise in windy conditions, head to a safe place.
Not Carefully Choosing a Campsite
Comfort should be paramount on a backpacking trip, and a big part of that is thoughtfully organizing a campsite. If it’s going to be cold in the mornings, set up shop where there’s some sort of southern exposure to warm up fast.
Nathaniel Whittle of Texas recommends picking an open area with sun, breezes, and no standing water to keep mosquitos out. Avoid smells and smoke by camping downwind from kitchen areas or campfires.
Picking the Wrong Sized Shoes
Buying the most supportive, heavy-duty boot is essential for backpackers, but Nathaniel Whittle of Texas explains that beginners often forget to take into consideration the foot swelling that can occur on any hike. Size your shoes so there is comfort when feet swell in the afternoon by a half-size.
Not Protecting Your Food
Nathaniel Whittle of Texas explains that stashing your food effectively keeps creatures both big (bears) and small (squirrels) away. Many backpackers use odor-proof, drybags and hang them in a tree at least 200 feet off the ground. Some campsites offer bear cans to store food or toiletries.
Not Tending to Your Body’s Needs
A tiny blister or minor heel pain may seem insignificant, but not taking care of scrapes and bumps right away can have major implications on both short and long backpacking adventures. Change out socks frequently and treat blisters with a first aid kit to avoid them ruining the rest of a hike.
Make sure shoes and socks are always dry. Nathaniel Whittle of Texas explains that a little blister prevention goes a very long way.
