Introduction to Backpacking

Backpacking is a wonderful hobby that can provide you not only with fun but also a wide array of experiences as you encounter people from around the world and learn about other cultures.

For those not familiar with the idea of backpacking, it is much like hiking combined with camping with the exception that everything one needs for camping must be condensed and carried in a pack while navigating the trails of the area you are exploring.

When you are out backpacking, there are usually no cell phones to worry about and certainly televisions or game stations claiming your attention. You are able to enjoy good conversation, the stillness of the night, the beauty of nature surrounding you and the excitement of discovering new wildlife, flora and fauna. Others are excited at the idea of being able to conquer the challenges that invariable come with backpacking.

This introductory guide to backpacking will give you some of the basic information that you need to make your first backpacking trip a success. Keep in mind that when you are on the trail you should always expect the unexpected, but with careful planning and research you should be able to minimize the risks so that you will be able to simply relax and have fun.

In this ebook, we will examine some of the basics you should be aware of when getting started with backpacking, including some of the equipment you will need, some basic safety tips and information to help guide you whether you are planning a simple weekend backpacking trip or you are planning to backpack your way through Europe.

Each and every day that you are on the trail is an adventure!

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1

Beginning Backpacking

Selecting your First Backpacking Trip

How Far?      

Backpacking Safely

Chapter 2

Backpacking Equipment and Gear

Backpack      

   Internal and External Framed Backpacks

   Carrying Capacity 

Sleeping Bag

Hiking Boots

Choosing a Tent

Sleeping Pads

Waist Pack

Travelers Checks

Personal Essentials   

Toiletries      

Miscellaneous

Clothing and Shoes   

Chapter 3

Safety Matters

Packing a First Aid Kit

Understanding your Physical Condition      

Anticipating the Level of Difficulty

Preventing Lift Injuries

Chapter 4

Planning your Trip

Chapter 5

Planning International Backpacking Trips

   Passports

   Travel Visas

   Vaccinations

   A Few Words about Malaria

   Dengue Fever

   Bird Flu

   Other Health Matters

Chapter 6

Transportation and Accommodation Matters

Budget Airlines

Traveling by Train

Hostels

   Advantages of Hostels

   Disadvantages of Hostels

Hostel Etiquette

Chapter 7

Leaving for your Trip

BACKPACKING CHECKLIST

3 SEASON BACKPACKING CHECKLIST

WINTER CHECKLIST

FOOD AND MEALS

   Breakfast Foods

   Lunch

   Dinner

Backpacking Recipes

   Easy Breakfast Casserole

   Banana and Peanut Butter Wrap

   Tuna Salad Wrap

Conclusion