Hiking Backpack Zone

Posts Tagged ‘Backpacking’

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.

Hiking can either be the most calming or the most exciting experience, depending on the location and the duration of your hike. You can hike to a serene waterfall and stay there for some much needed rest and relaxation. Or, you can go up to the very peak of a mountain and conquer the tall peaks. Basing on the type of trip you prefer, there are particular hiking equipments that you will need to take with you.

Clothes

Many people ponder about what kind of clothes they should use for a hiking trip. When, actually, the answer is pretty simple. Those things that you have on your cabinet should be more than sufficient. Make sure, however, that you choose practical clothes. When people think of hiking, they automatically think that it’s better to use shorts and tank tops. Actually, it is much better to use pants and long-sleeved shirts as they will serve you better through different kinds of weather. Do not forget that the sun gets hotter as the day nears noon. You might grossly underestimate the heat, especially if you start out early in the morning where the weather is cool and damp. In cases like these, long-sleeved shirts will really provide more protection from the sun. Also, if you have some cash to spare, you could buy those vests with several pockets. The more pockets you have, the more items you can bring; like matches, a compass, a telescope, a small first aid kit, your canteen, etc. You should keep the vital items close to your person at all times in case you lose your bag somewhere along the way.

Footwear

You will also require specialized footwear. Your feet are going to be the ones that will take a beating from the long hikes, so you need them to be as comfortable and as strong as possible. Footwear will also help you move through different kinds of terrain. A good advice is to use water-proof footwear, as you might have to wade through streams when hiking.

Backpack

Backpacks are extremely important for hiking. This is where you’ll store your sleeping bag, your extra clothes, and also your tent. It is important, therefore, that you choose the best bag. Find one with many pockets where you can place your things. Another very important factor that you have to consider when it comes to choosing a backpack is durability. You wouldn’t want your bag to tear while you’re hiking. So, when it comes to the bag, don’t hesitate to spend a bit of extra cash.

Mrs. Karen Dreyer discuss hiking equipment list on her homepage. Give it a minute if you want to learn more about different types of camping.

When the city becomes a bit too much to suffer, the best activity that you can do is to pack up your bags and head for a camping trip. Camping trips are very enjoyable, especially if you’re going with your friends. If you ever decide to make your mark on Mother Earth, then you might want to conquer a high peak and hike to the very summit of a mountain. Well, if such is your decision, then it’s probably best for you to make the right preparations first. Make sure that you have all the necessary hiking equipment before you go so that you won’t find yourself wanting once you start on your journey hike. To start with, here is a list of the most basic equipment you will need on your hike.

Tent

One of the things that is extremely important when going hiking is a tent. You cannot go on a lengthy hike without taking some shelter along. There are, though, many kinds of tents and you might be in a dilemma as to picking which one to buy. The choice actually hinges on your specific needs. One thing is for sure, though, you need to pick the one that is lightweight. Hiking is no easy feat. And if you want to endure, then your pack must be easy enough to carry.

Sleeping Bags

Another factor you have to think about is how and where you will sleep. And for this, you will utilize a sleeping bag. Sleeping bags may either be composed of down or made of synthetic fibers. Both are great insulators, but if you are a serious camper, then it would surely be most appropriate if you get a down sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags are much better than the synthetic ones in almost all aspects. They will be more practical in the long run, despite their high price.

Insect Repellent

One item that you should never ever forget when assembling your hiking gear is insect repellent. Because we live in the city, it is easy to underestimate the insects in the jungle. But once you get there, you will see exactly how big and how dangerous these bugs are.

Safety Gear

Safety Gear are also very important when it comes to hiking. When setting up your hiking gear, be sure to take along some safety matches, a flashlight, and some hiking poles. These will make your trip much easier and much safer. You must also bring along a first aid kit just in case someone gets hurt.

Karen D. discuss hiking gear sale on her website. Give it a minute if you want to learn more about camping equipment.

One of the most intimate ways through which you could see the world is by backpacking. No other activity would offer you such a complete knowledge of the land. You surely should try it someday. However, before you set out on your adventure, be sure that you have the most crucial item for backpacking. What is it, you inquire? Easy: A Backpack. Picking a backpack, however, is not a simple matter of simply just picking the cheapest or even choosing the one you think is aesthetically pleasing. Beauty has little to do with backpacking. It is practicality that is most crucial. As such, here are the factors that you have to take note of when you purchase your backpack.

Number of Pockets

Pockets make it much easier for you to find an item hastily, especially if your things are nicely organized. With pockets, you won’t have to fish around in your bag, looking for a particular item. They’re ideal for smaller items like matchbooks, cell phones, and cameras — those things that you usually need more often than other items and you thus need easier access to when you go backpacking. When you buy your backpack, be sure that it has a sufficient amount of pockets for all your most vital things.

Material

Another thing that is of utmost importance is the strength of your bag. Make sure the material is strong so that the bag will last long and won’t tear during your backpacking trip. Some low quality bags have cloths that are very easily destroyed with the wear and tear of traveling. The material becomes thinner and thinner and before you know it, it will burst at the worst moment and your belongings will come spilling out. For that matter, you should take along some thread and a needle whenever you go backpacking as a safety measure. People often forget these items, only to regret it later. Furthermore, you should make sure that your backpack is waterproof. Should you encounter rain showers when you go backpacking, it would be of extreme importance that none of your items get wet.

Size

Backpacks are meant to be worn around the torso, so be sure the bag fits you. A backpack that is too big would be too awkward to carry around, and so would one that is too small. So, when you buy your bag, test it first and see if it’s the right size for you.

Mrs. Karen Dreyer discuss backpacking meals on her homepage. Go check it out if you want to learn more about camping life.

Laptops are just about the nicest gadgets that man has ever invented. With laptops, you don’t have to be burdened by the heavy lump that is the personal computer. You don’t have to be plugged into the wall. You don’t even have to trouble yourself with those pesky wires. You don’t have to sacrifice any of the power and benefits of a personal computer. Laptops can be just as advanced as most PCs. And with the invention of wireless broadband, you can connect to the net just as easily too. But the greatest thing, perhaps, about laptops is that they are portable. You can take them with you anywhere, adding a huge measure of comfort and convenience to your life.

Unfortunately, laptops aren’t the paragons of portability that the makers portray them to be. They’re really quite delicate and a bit hard to lug around, especially if you carry them by hand. Your arm will cramps when you bring your laptop along using the handbags that they usually come with. Handbags are also more prone to being forgotten. It’s a really nice thing, then, that we now have an alternative: Computer backpacks.

Advantages of Using a Computer Backpack

Computer backpacks are wonderful because they are very unproblematic to carry. Unlike shoulder bags which make one of your shoulders cramp because of the laptop’s weight, computer backpacks would distribute the weight evenly through your back. This makes the weight easier to carry. It also makes the laptop more secure, as there’s no danger of slipping. Furthermore, you’ll have your hands unrestricted, which allows you more leeway when it comes to movement. Indeed, computer backpacks are infinitely more comfy and convenient to use than the regular old handbag or shoulder bag.

Disadvantages of Using a Computer Backpack

One big disadvantage of using a computer backpack, however, is that they are too pricey. Computer backpacks, mostly the specialized ones, can get too pricey. Also, they are usually made for the smaller laptops. Laptops with screens bigger than 15 inches usually can’t fit inside the traditional computer backpacks, so you might have a difficult time finding a larger backpack. Another disadvantage of using computer backpacks is that they are hardly stylish. Sure, they’re good for informal affairs. But if you use your laptop for professional issues, then the computer backpack surely won’t fit in well with your three piece suit and your spiffy necktie.

Mrs. Karen Dreyer writes about computer backpacks for 17 inch on her homepage. Give it a minute if you want to learn more about camping life.

Have you ever felt stifled by the closed confines of the concrete jungle? Well, if you have, then it is probably high time for you to pack your bags and go camping. There’s really nothing that compares to a journey to the great outdoors. It’s exciting, it’s refreshing, and most of all, it’s a time when families can bond. However, even when you commune with Mother Earth, you very well can’t use the starry night sky as your only roof, especially if you brought your children with you. You don’t want to be caught in the rain, especially in these times. So, it’s much better if you bring a canvas tent along.

What is a Canvas Tent?

A Canvas Tent is simply a tent that is constructed by draping a canvas over a framework of poles and ropes. If you want a proper idea of what a canvas tent is, do imagine the barracks of those who enlist for the army. Or, if you like, you could try to think about the large tents that the circus workers use when they set up their business in the city, at least temporarily. Of course, the ones used in camping are hardly that big. In fact, they’re usually only big enough to accommodate one or two people.

What is a Canvas Tent Composed of?

The material used for canvas tents may vary vastly, especially when it comes to the cloth. The most common material used is cotton. This is a great material, as it is very strong and it is also water resistant. However, sometimes, manufacturers utilize other cloths such as polyester, nylon, and felt. The choice between these three materials depends wholly on the type of weather you expect to use you tent in. But it’s generally better to just stick with cotton as it is the most practical.

What are the Features of a Canvas Tent?

When choosing a canvas tent, you must also consider its various features. Most importantly, consider how water resistant it is. There is a rating system made for this. The more water resistant a tent is, the more pricey it commonly is. So, before you buy, determine the kind of climate you’re going to use the tent in most of the time. Another consideration is the presence of windows. There are usually open windows that allow sufficient air to enter the tent. It is, however, much better to pick the ones with mesh windows, as this will keep the insects out.

Karen Dreyer talks about canvas tents for sale on her homepage. Take a look if you want to learn more about camping life.

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.

If you ever see yourself getting tired of the boring activities of everyday life, why don’t you pack your belongings and go camping? There’s really nothing better than to sleep in the woods, with only a humble tent as your protection against the elements. It’s a great way to cleanse yourself, to forget the troubles of the draining city life at least for a while. But camping itself is not an easy feat. There are several things that you must put into consideration, especially in taking care of your camping tent.

Always Choose “Practical”

Sometimes, the best tents are also the ones that are least pretty. But really, when you go camping, I can assure you that beauty is the last thing you’ll be looking for. You will want a tent that is big enough to keep you and your companions. Spacious tents are especially useful if you have a lot of things with you, as you can’t just leave your things outside while you sleep inside your tent. Also, go for the tent that’s simple to set up, no matter how simple or unglamorous it looks. Believe me, once you arrive at your camping site, you’ll desire nothing more than to just rest. And the fact that you will have a fancy tent to set up will bog down your spirits.

Accessorize Your Tent

Another thing that will help you out if you decide to go camping is to accessorize your camping tent. Purchase some inflatable mattresses or some sleeping bags so that you’ll be more comfortable at night. The tent might keep you warm, but it won’t make you any more comfortable without a mattress.

Protection from Mosquitoes

One of the worst things about camping is the presence of mosquitoes. You can be sure that they will bother you when you go camping. And really, they can spoil your camping trip thoroughly if you let them. There is a way to make them stay out, however, and that is to spray your tent with insecticide. The smell will keep these mosquitoes out.

Location is Everything

Another matter that you have to take note of is the location where you put your tent. It’s most useful if you place your tent at higher ground in case it pours. Furthermore, if it does rain, be sure to let your tent dry before you pack it so that it doesn’t get mildew. Also, be sure that you don’t put your tent too close to the fire. You can never be sure that the wind will pick up and send a few embers over to your tent, causing a horrible fire. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.

Karen Dreyer talks about best camping tent on her homepage. Take a look if you want to learn more about camping life.

categories: camping,outdoor,hiking,backpacking,trekking,holiday,travel,sports,nature,adventure,hobbies

If you are going on a camping trip with your friends or family, it is important that you have complete camping gears. Complete camping gears save you from a lot of headaches because you can easily get what you need. Plus, a complete camping gear may also make you feel like you are home. So, what are the things that you need to put in your camping gears?

The Camping Tents

Camping gears shall never be complete if you do not have camping tents. In fact, this is one of the most important things that the camping gears must include because this will be your protection against the sun and the changing weather. For this reason, you have to choose camping tents that are of good quality. They may be a bit costly than others, but the camping tents will be money worth it. Another thing that you have to consider in camping tents is that it should be easy to unfold and unfold as well as to keep.

The Camping Chairs

Of course, your camping gears must also have camping chairs. This is very important, too, because you do not want to sit around on your bottom the whole camping trip. In fact, you would want to have comfy camping chairs to make your trip all the more comfy. Just like the camping tent, you will need to have camping chairs that are simple to store.

The Camping Beds

Camping beds are also very important to include in your camping gears if you want to stay the night, but when you choose the right camping beds for your camping gear, you still have to consider the weight and the weight of the camping beds. Aside from this, it is also important that you select a camping bed that could easily fit your size with more room to move around in. Furthermore, like the camping tents, you would also want the camping beds to be easy to fold and easy to store.

These are just some of the things that your camping gears should have, and there are more that you can add to your camping gear to make your camping trip a very comfortable and memorable one. Your camping gears should include cooking utensils and cookware, and camping gears should also have a first-aid kit as well as batteries and flashlights. It will also be to your advantage if you bring matches and candles, just in case.

Mrs. Karen Dreyer writes about camping gear stores on her website. Take a look if you want to learn more about camping equipment.