Going Backcountry Camping? Here is a Short Guide to Help You Prepare

All the wild adventurers at heart adore backcountry camping. And there are good reasons for that. There is something special about setting up a tent in beautiful remote and isolated areas. And the satisfaction that a person gets from being completely self-sufficient in nature is one of the best feelings for a true explorer.

That being said, going backcountry camping is an adventure that requires preparations beforehand. There are a couple of things you need to take care of so you can safely venture into the amazing wilderness. Here is a short guide to help you prepare.

Bring The Right Overnight Gear

Before even thinking or planning about anything else, you need to assemble the right gear that you will take with you. There are three absolute must bring items on a backcountry camping trip – a tent, a sleeping bag, and a backpack.

You need to take into consideration that backcountry camping requires walking great distances to reach your destination. So the first thing to keep in mind is to choose from a collection of backpacking tents that are lightweight, sturdy, and easy to pack and carry. The same goes for the sleeping bag. Also, consider the weather conditions of the location, as well as the temperature rating of the bag. These items should also be waterproofed and windproof. You want to make sure that you are protected as much as you could be against the harshness of nature. But you also want to be warm and comfortable, so keep this in mind when you are choosing the items of your overall gear.

And one other thing, do not forget to bring a headlamp and a flashlight.

Pack Other Backpacking Items

You need to bring items that will literally help you survive in the wilderness. Things like a knife and a lighter, won’t cut it on a backcountry camping trip. 

When choosing what type of foods you are bringing along, also think about the items needed to prepare that certain type of food. Two things that are a must bring are a portable stove and cutlery. You need to think about the nutritiousness of the food i.e. bring food that will help you bring your energy levels up as well as it will keep you feeling full.

You will also need a big thermos that is lightweight. While a backpack with a hydration pack is a smart choice, it is not the only one. When it comes to water just literally take as much as could possibly carry.

Don’t forget to bring different types of medications that could prove to be useful and helpful in unexpected situations. Compile a first aid kit that you will bring with you on all of your outdoor adventures. A couple of bandages and some aspirin, are always a good idea when you venture into the unknown.

Make A Detailed Plan Ahead Of Going

It’s recommended that you pick the dates very well in advance. This will give you more options in terms of locations. If you know the dates a month before going there will be more location options available for you. Once you know the date and the location you could check the weather and start preparing according to the locations, dates, and weather.

Get a piece of paper and start making a checklist. Divide things into categories, if that is easier for you, and before going check everything on the list – twice.

Remember that the backcountry camping trips have a point A to point B hiking experience, so you should adjust your equipment to that also. Arrange for someone to drop you off at point A at the start of the trip and to pick you up at the same spot when your adventure comes to an end.

Make Sure You Are Physically Prepared

If you are new to this, or even if you aren’t – you should know that in order to go on a trip like this one you should improve your lung capacity. Start very, very well in advance by incorporating some breathwork exercises into your daily exercise routine. This will be of great help to you once you start feeling tired after the first 30 minutes of hiking. Being able to control your breathing will prepare your body to function properly in places that are richer in oxygen also.

This is also a warning not to overestimate yourself no matter how many times you have gone through this kind of trip. Always pick trails that you know your body will handle. You don’t want to be so exhausted from hiking that you end up being too tired to set up your tent.

Don’t Forget About The Permits

If you are heading to a location that is a part of a National Park, you will need a permanent one. Get it online before you even start to pack for the trip and keep it on you at all times. If there are any fees to be paid, pay them online or at the info booth of the park. 

Be sure to give your trip plan to a ranger of the park. Remember that you need to think about your safety first and it is always a good idea for someone else other than you to know about your whereabouts. This way if something bad happens, you can always know that help is on the way.