Hiking Backpack Zone

Archive for the ‘Backpacking’ Category

The essence of backpacking is to take all that you need for your trip in a single bag that can be carried on your back, and therefore taking unnecessary items is not an option. Most people would agree though that a computer is an essential item these days.

Space is at a premium, so by packing a netbook something else will have to be left at home. After clothes and toiletries though, is there anything more important than a computer? In case you are still unconvinced, here are some reasons why netbooks are perfect for backpackers…

Reason #1 - Affordability

Costing between $200-400, netbooks are affordable, especially when compared to the cost of standard laptop computers. It is important to keep costs down, because the more money spent prior to traveling, the shorter the trip will probably have to be.

Even that amount may initially seem prohibitive though, however, just think of the accumulated costs of paying to use computers in Internet shops for the whole duration of a trip away. Spending even a dollar or two a day in them soon adds up.

Reason #2 - Portability

Another big selling point for netbooks is their compact size. Generally around 7″ to 10.1″ in size and weighing only a pound or so, they are easy to transport and store.

A larger laptop is not only heavier, it is also more difficult to conceal, whereas a small, discrete netbook can be hidden away from the eyes of opportunistic thieves.

Reason # 3 - Utility

Netbooks continue to pack in more and more features these days. Just a few things that backpackers can use them for include writing emails to keep family and friends up-to-date with their adventures, uploading photos to Facebook, writing a travel blog, or phoning home on Skype.

Also, thanks to the power of the Internet, a range of tools and extensive travel information are just a click away from the savvy backpacker. Backpackers can quickly get a variety of directions and information on attractions in a few short minutes.

Reason # 4 - Memories

You will want to remember as much about your trip as possible, and having a netbook with you allows you to do so. You can write a journal, store your photos and record audio or visual messages.

With the large size of the hard drive there is no need to hold back at all. You can save as many details of your trip as you want to.

So, if you are going on a backpacking trip soon, and do not yet have a netbook, or you have one but are not sure whether to take it, then hopefully you will now buy one, or pack your existing one.

Now, check out this buying guide, which gives unbiased reviews on cheap netbooks and cheap laptops.

Traveling around the world doesn’t have to be a hard task - in fact, most people don’t know that a RTW trip is doable on almost any income level. No matter what you make right now, you have the ability to save up for a major trip and travel round the world for any length of your choosing.

It’s actually sad to say that one of the biggest reasons that round the world travel is out of the question for many dreamers is because of a Western obsession with materialism. As a society we buy so many products and services that it’s crazy to consider how much money is spent on material goods instead of on the memories that are created from treasured experiences. Many travelers only dream of these amazing spots all over the world because they are busy spending their cash instead of socking it away in savings.

The “gimme” syndrome is huge in children, they want all of the latest toys and gadgets, that sticks with us as adults and we buy materialistic goods instead of funneling money into our true goals and dreams. All of the materialistic goods are hindering the ability to put a consistent amount of money into your travel savings fund - stopping the constant acquisition of new products is a key part of initially prepping for round the world travel.

Downsizing your current life is also incredibly important - RTW travelers don’t own a lot of furniture, knickknacks and clothes, because they then have to pay for storage for these belongings. Instead, taking an accurate inventory of what you need to actually enjoy your lifestyle allows you to massively purge the material possessions that accumulate over time.

It would be remiss to omit the fact that it can take several years to save up for a long-term round the world trip. Although RTW travel is so much cheaper than you can imagine, most travelers save up for between two and three years. That time is spending aggressively saving while also plotting out dream travel spots, planning, packing, and prepping your life so that it can be easily put on hold for a year or two once you set out to explore.

Want to find out more about saving for round the world travel, then visit Shannon O’s site on how to effectivelybudget for RTW travel and inspiration for planning your travels.

A backpacking checklist is usually about the “stuff.” Good equipment is nice to have, but even with the best gear you can get into trouble in the wilderness. You might have matches and the latest fire starters, but still not be able to get that fire going. It takes more than good gear to assure a safe and enjoyable trip. Towards that end, then, this is a list of skills you should have or learn.

Navigation is an important skill in the outdoors, it is more that just reading a compass or GPS. Contrary to what many novices think, a compass doesn’t tell you where you are. For that matter, a map doesn’t either, if you don’t know how to use it. Practice close to home if you can’t yet use both of these easily. Do the same with your GPS unit.

Staying warm is an essential skill that not only requires the correct layered clothing, but also being prepared for the area you’re backpacking in and the prevailing weather. There are tricks to staying warm. Shed layers as you get warm, for illustration, so you don’t have sweat to chill you later. Use wind-blocking shell clothing, and wear a hat. Devouring fatty foods before sleeping can keep you warmer.

Pitching a tent is a skill that demands a proper site along with basic skills and experience to raise it the right way. Pitch your tent or tarp wrong and the rain will come in, or the wind will tear the seams. They need to be pitched tight, and you should be able to act it in a few minutes. Practice in the yard.

Cooking over a fire may seem easy but requires the suitable blast, correct outdoor cooking equipment, and basic cooking knowledge. Attaining soup over a small fire isn’t as easy as it seems. Cover the pan, block the wind, and keep the fire small and centralised. Time yourself when you practice. You do not have to rush normally, but speed can be significant in some situations, and it’s always possible your stove will break.

Identifying edible plants will make your trip enjoyable and nutritional. Learning to identify three or four wild edible berries can make a trip more enjoyable. Learning to identify cattails and one or two other good survival food plants can be very helpful, especially if you ever lose your food to a bear.

Walk at a well-fixed pace enables you to accomplish your destination in a reasonable time. If you pace yourself and study how to move advantageously over rocky terrain, you will be less tired, and less probable to twist an ankle. Fasten those laces, too.

Understanding animals is an essential skill as a Bear or mountain lion could truly ruin your outdoor experience. Is the bear “bluff charging” or stalking you? The latter means you’ll be the bear’s supper if you play dead. A clue: making a lot of noise usually means he just wants to frighten you (a “bluff charge”), but you need to read up on this one.

Weather observation is vital as a grievous storm would truly wreck your outdoor experience. Are those just clouds, or a lightning storm coming? It would be good to know when you are on a high ridge. In the rockies, afternoon thunderstorms are the norm in summer. Determine the weather patterns of an area, and the basics of forecasting weather, and you will be a lot safer.

Basic first aid is an essential skill for survival in the outdoors. What are the symptoms of hypothermia? Stumbling and slurred speech are a couple of them. How do you properly treat blisters? You can use duct tape if you don’t have moleskin. These and other basics are good things to know.

Fire making is perfectly vital for enjoyment and survival in the woods. Try to begin that fire with one match. As well try it the next time it’s raining. Arrive the habit of collecting dry tinder before the rain comes. Discover what things burn even when wet, like pine sap and birch bark .

This last one can represent among the more significant skills in an emergency. Experts can start a open fire in almost any circumstances, simply you don’t need to be an expert in wilderness survival to delight a painless hiking trip. For a safer, more enjoyable trip, just do the best you can, and start checking the skills on this backpacking checklist.

Leather craftsman and Author Ethan O. Tanner explains the different types of backpacking the backpacking checklist forcamping for adventure.

I always wanted to travel the world from the age of eighteen onwards. The only problem I had was gathering enough money for the trip, without a full time job and heading for college it just wasn’t really an option.

After finishing university I found myself with 4 years worth of debt and bank overdrafts. It often amazes me to think where people find the money to travel the world before university, they must have some very generous parents.

After college I went on to university where there were many distractions to stop me from traveling, although in all honesty I probably didn’t want to go enough at this stage. When I had finished I found myself with some debt to pay off.

Here are 5 reasons to consider traveling the world:

- Experience The Culture Shock - A great character building experience can come from traveling, especially if you find yourself in a situation where the culture is completely different to back home. You find challenging situations where you’ll have to think on your feet and react in ways that you wouldn’t need to in your own comfort zone back home.

- Likes and Dislikes - Traveling is a great test of what you really like or dislike. Food, music, places, sights, language, people it really can be an eye opener into who you really are as a person. If you are traveling solo you will quickly get to know just what type of people you get along with and the type of people you don’t.

- Build Confidence - Traveling can have a great effect on your confidence as you have to rely on yourself to organise where you are going and what you’re doing. Often you’ll have to think on your feet in some interesting situations when the culture shock is pretty high. Once you return home, everything will seem like a breeze.

- Taste New Food - Try snake in China or Kangaroo in Australia, traveling the world you’ll have the opportunity to throw yourself in the deep end and taste new cuisines. If you want to get the most out of this you really do have to be as open minded as possible.

- Break The Stereotypes - Get out into the world, see and experience cultures for yourself rather than just relying on stereotypes. You’ll often find that countries are very different to your original impressions before you traveled.

Paul Dow is currently recovering in London after traveling solo for 22 months through Asia, Australia, New Zealand and South America. He writes advice and tips for those that want to backpack for TravMonkey.com an online world travel magazine.

India has long been a favorite with backpackers because there’s lots to see and do, and travelling around the country is relatively inexpensive. Popular reasons for backpacking there include: to become more independent; to experience different cultures; to meet new people; to enjoy yourself.

You can backpack in India for the half a year that the majority of tourist visas allow, yet still feel as though you missed out on so much. In fact, India is so huge that you could pass a number of years in the country and still not see half of it. There are Himalayan valleys, Hindu temples, Rajasthani palaces and forts, and tropical beaches

Even though prices have risen slightly in the past few years and tourism there is increasingly aimed in favor of the domestic middle class, it’s still possible to stay in a bamboo hut on a beach for around 100 Rupees a night. It’s also possible to eat in the country for a couple of Dollars a day However, food is more expensive in places that cater for backpackers and non-Indian food is nearly always more expensive than Indian food.

India is accomodating to backpackers and although travelling around takes time, it is easy enough to explore for even first time backpackers. It’s regarded as a safe country too, so long as you use some sense and show respect for the locals. Most travelers in India travel on a route that has been used by thousands of other travelers before them, and as a result you’ll come across lots of services tailored especially towards backpackers.

Locally run travel agents are readily available on popular routes and can be used for arranging day trips, visas and flights. Overnight buses and sleeper trains are ideal for backpackers and offer an inexpensive method of covering moderate distances. Long in-country distances can be covered with domestic flights; they’re mostly low-cost, dependable and can be booked on the day.

Travelling there brings the unexpected and there’s always something to write to your friends and family about, particularly if you venture away from the backpacker hotspots and explore India outside the tourist centres.

We Recommend : Activity Holidays

Backpacking is a form of travel that has been popular for some time, but it is taking on a whole new level of interest now with the slower economy. People are trying to get creative with trips so that they can still see exotic locations, but not have to spend a lot of money on travel and accommodations. Learning about backpacking can you have right there with everyone else in no time at all.

Making sure that your pack is filled with the right things is half the battle. There are necessities and then there are necessities. At the top of that list is a map of the area that you are traveling in and a compass. You can end up going the wrong way at any time. These two items will make sure that you get back to where you need to be.

Injuries and cuts are going to happen and you need to make sure that you are ready to deal with them. You can get a decent first aid kit for travel at your local drugstore or outdoor shop. They will fit right into one of the side compartments of your pack and will have everything that you might need for a small emergency.

Extra clothing is something else to put in your pack. You are going to need this for three different purposes. If weather turns bad, you will need the extra layers. You will also be able to use it at night to create some extra warmth while you are sleeping. Finally, you never know what is going to happen on the trail and if you get covered in mud or something worse, you can at least get out of the wet clothing and put something fresh on while you clean and allow the other set to dry.

Remember, you are going to be outside and that big yellow thing in the sky can do some serious damage if you are not careful. Make sure you buy a nice pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes and bring plenty of sunscreen as well regardless of the time of the year that you are backpacking.

Food and water will obviously be packed, but when you think you have enough, put a little more in there. You can also put some energy bars and quick snacks that you can get a hold of quick when you start to run low on energy. If you really want to play it safe, get a water hydration system that you can wear so you always have water at the ready.

If you are traveling in an area that will have frigid nights or plan on eating cooked food, you are going to need a way to start a fire. Waterproof matches and firestarter will need to find its way into your backpack. If you dont want to purchase firestarter, you can just as easily make your own. Keep them in containers so that they do not get wet and ensure that when you need those flames, you can produce them.

If you are an experienced backpacker, all of this is already common knowledge for you. If you are just learning about backpacking, we have hopefully shed some light on the activity and added to the safety and enjoyment of your next trip.

If you enjoy backpacking, you should check out Rics site on backpacking. The site features the latest information on backpacking destinations, safety and much more.

It has long been a custom to build a campfire when camping, sometimes they are actually needed for warmth. You will adjust the size of the fire to the reason you are having one, whether it is being utilized for warmth, cooking, or maybe both is some cases. This article is going to discuss a very easy method for starting your campfire.

The first step to do in building a campfire is to know on whether or not it is permitted in the campsite that you have chosen. Always remember that campfires are one of the main reasons why forest fires happen. So before you do anything else, get permission from the forest ranger to build one.

Now that you have gotten permission, then you need to choose the spot for making your campfire. The experienced campers recommend that the safest area for campfires is at least 10 feet from any family tents or other things that can be caught on fire, like your clothes that are hanging outside, trees, and so on. Remember anything can happen when you are outdoors. The wind can be calm one minute and blowing the next right toward your tents!

Now that you have selected the area, you need to collect up some wood. Good size sticks, barks, and twigs are great to collect if you don’t want to have to chop the wood. But make sure the wood is dry that you are collecting so the burn easier.

Now that you have the wood to fuel the fire you are going to make, lay a tarp out on top of the area you selected. This prevents that area from having unsightly debris due to the campfire on it when you are through and you leave. Once you have laid the tarp out you need to spread a good layer of soil over it and even it out. This soil insulates the tarp from the heat of the campfire, so be sure to have a thick enough layer.

The next thing you need to do is make a teepee using your gathered wood. To do this correctly, put a good amount of dried leaves and twigs in the center of the teepee and put the bigger pieces of wood around them. The smaller pieces in the middle easily lights up and will consequently light the bigger pieces on its outsides after a few minutes.

Once the bigger pieces have caught fire, put more similarly sized pieces around them. In fact, it is always a good idea to completely cover the teepee wall with big pieces of wood. The only thing to remember though is to never cover the teepee. This area allows the oxygen in and thus be able to circulate in the tepee. As long as you allow a steady supply of oxygen into the campfire, the steadier your fire will be.

When constructing your campfire, be sure to always make it to a size, where you can maintain complete control of it. In the event you are going to be using the fire to cook with, just make the fire a bit bigger and strong by adding more wood to it. For warmth the fire can be a smaller one. The campfire should always be completely put out prior to people going to their family tents for the night.

By Matt Hodgson

A Guide To Backpacking
Backpacking is a great experience, and for those of you who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, what better way to do so than with your dog. Backpacking can be a challenging and rewarding experience, for both of you; dogs enjoy carrying packs, and providing you start training correctly, this is a fun activity that can be done time and time again!

The Backpack
Dogs from about 9 months can start to wear an empty pack and begin to get used to wearing it. It can be quite strange for your dog to have this unknown object  on its back; let him walk around with the pack on; go for short walks, whilst he adjusts to the wider load - he will bang into things at first! When your dog reaches 12 months of age, you can start to add a bit of weight. Use something that is light, but bulky, and ensure that you equally balance both sides of the pack. Keep sharp objects away from the inside of the pack so they do not dig into your dogs sides; softer items such as clothes or towels are good to pad and protect the dog. Slowly you can add weight to the pack; do not increase it substantially - ensure that you increase slowly and allow the dog to adjust to the additional weight.

It is important that the backpack fits correctly, and is not too large or small. Place the pack and weight which your dog will carry, over the shoulder blade (withers) area, and not in the middle of the back. The shoulders are built to carry the weight; the spine is not. A fit and healthy dog that had the correct introduction to backpacking should be able to carry up to 30% of his own bodyweight.

You should be able to remove the backpack quickly in case of emergency or even when you stop for a rest or water, so check that it has quick release buckles.

Training Before Backpacking
Before you do any backpacking with your dog, you need to ensure that both you and your dog are fit enough. You will need to train for longer distances (if this is your goal). Regular walks, without a backpack, of increasing distance and varied terrain should be a regular part of your training beforehand. You need to be sure of your dogs obedience; will he walk to heel when asked? You do not want to be pulled downhill when your dog has spotted something he’d like to chase! You should walk with your dog on a lead whilst he wearing his backpack - and also, obviously, on a lead around livestock and developed areas where there are risks to the dog, such as traffic. Your dog’s feet need to be conditioned for backpacking walks as you will be covering a variety of surfaces.

Your first few outings should be kept simple and a positive experience. You can build up the distances gradually and then move onto some walks with hill climbs and descents.

The Walk
A suitable walk will include lots of places to stop with water, such as rivers and streams. Plan ahead for your walk, and ensure that you are aware what terrain you are travelling over.

If you are backpacking in the summer months or hot weather, try to find walks in the shade, and perhaps set off earlier when it is cooler. Know when to turn around and head back if your dog is too hot and struggling.

Items that you will take on your walks will change, but ensure you always have fresh drinking water and a bowl for your dog, and fresh drinking water for yourself. The dogs water and bowl should be easily accessible within the backpack. Take as many water stops as you’d like and need - watch for your dog to ensure he is coping well and not becoming dehydrated or panting too much. You should take food rations for your dog, as well as yourselves - don’t forget, he is working as hard as you are!

If you are out by yourself, it is advisable to always tell somebody where you are going and what time you would expect to return. Take a mobile, compass, map and water with you at all times.

Remember to follow the Country Code. Do not drop litter, take all of your rubbish with you and always clean up after your dog. Keep to footpaths and ensure you always close gates.

Most importantly, you should ensure that both you and the dog have a fun and enjoyable experience!

Now…go pack up and get out walking!

© SnowPaw Ltd 2008

Matt Hodgson

Snow Paw ltd http://www.snowpawstore.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Hodgson http://EzineArticles.com/?Backpacking-With-Your-Dog&id=2403558

By Allison Mac

A good backpacking water filter will help ensure that you have a safe wilderness excursion and protect you from parasites, bacteria and possibly even viruses.  A wilderness expert would tell you never to drink untreated water no matter where it’s coming from.  Many times beautiful mountain water or clear streams are contaminated with dead animals or other pollutants and can cause you to become very ill.  There are two different options for treating your water… a water filter, or iodine.

Most typical backpacking water filters will treat about a quart of water per minute.  In the beginning they are very effective, however the more they are used, the more sediment will clog the filters.  It is important to bring back-up filters with you to ensure that they are continually working at their best.  It is also a good thing to look for a water filter that contains a pre-filter.  This pre-filter is used to remove larger floating particles and will extend the life of your filter.  Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you are using the filter properly and that it is working efficiently.

If you don’t want to carry along filters, another option for treating the water is iodine tablets or crystals.  The advantage of these is that they take up practically no room in your backpack and they are extremely light weight.  Though they are convenient and easy to use, many wilderness experts question how well they work to eliminate the dangers of parasites.  Again be sure to follow the treatment instructions on the bottle if you choose to use the iodine.

Some of the top rated backpack water filters that you may want to explore are:

•    Crystal Quest Mfg. Water Filters

•    MSR Miniworks

•    Exstream MacKenzie

•    Katadyn Guide

•    Katadyn Hiker

•    McNett Aqua Mira

Backpacking water filers are essential for any wilderness excursion where bringing bottled water is not an option.  Read reviews and watch for durability, price, filter replacement and effectiveness.  The bottom line is to make sure you are protected and that your backpack is not too much heavier.  Shop and compare online and find the best filter that will fit your needs.

To learn much more about Backpacking water filters and the different types of water filtration visit Get-Water-Filters.com where you’ll find this and much more, including great information on expedition water filters

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Mac http://EzineArticles.com/?Backpacking-Water-Filters—Keep-Hydrated&id=2185791

By Natasha Fatale

The most important thing to think about when going on a backpacking adventure is to be prepared for anything. As the saying goes, if it can happen it will happen. These tips will help you avoid any misadventures and enjoy your backpacking trip to the fullest.

Keep Hydrated

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to keep yourself hydrated no matter what type of a backpacking trip you are on. The best way to do this of course is through the drinking of large amounts of water. You of course do not want to drink it all at once, but spread it out over the course of the day. Making sure that there is plenty of purified drinking water that is available for you and your entire group will lead to many happy campers.

It is important to note, that it does not matter what type of weather or what the temperatures that you are in when going on the trip, you will need to be hydrated. It may not be as obvious that you are losing fluids while on your trip in colder weather, but it is occurring nonetheless.

Dress for the Occasion

One of the most important pieces of clothing to a backpacker is their sleeping bag. This is the item that most do not think of as clothing, but in essence it is the clothes that you sleep in. Make sure that it has the proper ratings for the weather you will be encountering while on your trip.

Make sure to dress in layers as well so as to be able to put clothes on and off to adjust body temperature as necessary. Use your clothes as a thermostat regulator to prevent overheating and overexposure on the trip. Sun poisoning, heatstroke and hypothermia are all things to avoid.

Of course, you are going to want to take care of your feet as well while on your expedition. Make sure to wear hiking shoes or boots that will give you the necessary support so as to avoid twisted and sprained ankles. Do not forget to wear proper socks and sock liners so to prevent blisters and rubbing of the feet.

First Aid

Having an adequate first aid kit is one of the most essential pieces of equipment that you will need to carry on your trip. Make sure to of course have the bare essentials in the kit such as an ace bandage, band aids, burn cream and all other minimum items. Also, keep items to aid in rehydration if someone is dehydrated, such as a powdered electrolyte drink mix.
Make sure to keep things handy and to be ready for any type of danger encountered such as a snakebite kit, or emergency ice packs.

Food Safety

When you are going on a trip, food is always a good thing. Keeping it away from animals as well as safe for you are the two most important things to look at when going on a trip. Perishable items are never a good idea on any backpacking trip. This is because of the inability to keep them at the optimum temperature to preserve food quality.

When preparing food on a trip be sure to follow instructions and to use proper sanitation in order to limit the possibility of illness from poor preparation or cleanliness. The last thing that anyone wants is to be sick because someone did not clean the dishes properly. Wash, rinse and sanitize to ensure the safest practices. This goes for dishes and people as well.

Know the best food storage practices of the camp or area you are in. It could be hanging your food in a tree to avoid bears, or using provided lock boxes. Either way, you want o keep yourself and the animals safe by not allowing the food to fall into the wrong hands.

Know the Trek

Make yourself familiar with where you are going. Know what type of terrain you will encounter as well as the environment you will be in. These factors will go a long way in clothing, food and time decisions for your trip. These will also put you in better shape when it comes to being safe for your trip.

As always, be ready for anything and have a good idea of what you will encounter before heading out.

Just Roughin It offers backpacking adventure trips to the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. Our experienced guides are well-trained and safety conscious, and your adventure trip package includes all your gear, so all you have to do is enjoy yourself.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Natasha_Fatale http://EzineArticles.com/?Backpacking-Safety-Tips&id=2329212