Archive for the ‘travel’ tag
Hiking Backpack Essentials
The essentials for a backpacking trip?
My boyfriend and I would like to hike up to a lake in the mountains that we know of. We each want to take a pack… we will probably be there for 2 or 3 nights… what are the things that we need to take with us? what precautions and important things should we know…
it is in the mountains of Idaho by the way… i don’t know if that would change anything lol
lol no one knows anything about backpacking?
I have done a lot of backpacking from overnight trips to 14-day treks (although none in Idaho).
If you are new to packing, the first question I would have is how far are you going and what sort of packs will you have? Unless you are young and athletic, you probably would not want to try going more than a few miles without having true backpacking backpacks (as opposed to stuffing a bunch of things in a bookbag or day pack – you would be surprised how many people try that). When packing your bag, you want the heaviest items close to the center of your back to help with balance. Most of the weight of the pack should be riding on your hips, not your shoulders. If your pack weighs more than 35-40 pounds than you are either carrying too much stuff or the wrong types of equipment.
Water is the heaviest item you will likely carry. You won’t want to carry all the water you would need for 3-4 days, so you will need to purify water along the way (never drink unpurified water, no matter how clean it might look). There are a number of good backpacking hand-pump purifiers out there. For tents and sleeping bags, you could get by with cheap Walmart brands or items meant for car camping if you are young and strong (and on a tight budget), but dedicated backpacking gear that is warm, waterproof – and most importantly – light weight will result in a better experience. REI, NorthFace, Marmot and MountainHardware are all good brands. A 3-season, 2-person backpacking tent should not weigh more than 7 pounds and a good sleeping bag no more than 3-4 pounds.
As for food, unless you are really into cooking, I would recommend that you keep it simple and get some of those dehydrated backpacker dinners where you just add hot water and eat right out of the packet (less mess and no need for a bowl). Mountain House has some really good ones that taste pretty darn good after a long day (the lasangna and pasta prima vera in particular). The granola packets have a very good calorie to weight ratio. Make sure that you have lots of little snacks to eat throughout the day – especially salty ones to replace electrolytes (salts) that you sweat out. In fact, having some Gookinade packets for your water (or similar electrolyte drink mixes) are not a bad idea.
Make sure that you keep your food storage and preparation areas a good distance away from your tent site (at least 150 feet or more) and do not eat or keep food in camp (even snacks). It is best to have some sort of sack to put all of your food in and use a cord to hang from a tree branch (at least 10 feet up). The above rules are especially important in bear country, but even where bears are rare, it is a good idea to ensure skunks, rodents and other critters don’t get into your food or camp.
What else… dress in layers, so that you can add or remove items to adjust to temperature changes. You should start with a synthetic undergarment (polypro materials) which dries fast and helps wick moisture from your body, then a casual t-shirt, then a sweater or heavier warm layer and finally a waterproof jacket as your outershell. Those hiking pants that are made out of synthetic material and zip off at the knees to make shorts are ideal for backpacking. For a three night trip, I would probably just bring 2 changes of clothes (plus a couple extra underware and socks), plus a set of thermal underware to sleep in.
A few basic items that are good to have:
halogen bulb headlamps (much lighter and more convenient than flashlights)
DEET based bug repellant
First aid kit with blister patches
Basic pocketknife or multi-tool with blade, can opener and pliers.
Matches or lighter
Map of the area and compass
If you are going to be in bear country, you may want to consider getting a can of bear repellant (like super mace) and make sure that you make noise when going through brush or other areas of limited visibility (a surprised bear is an unhappy bear). But I would not worry too much about wildlife – some people get overly worried, but with a little common sense there is very little risk. I have spent a lot of nights camping in bear country (including grizzly country) and have never had a problem.
That probably covers the basics – and then some. If you are properly prepared and have the right equipment, backpacking can be a fantastic experience and allow you to explore places and connect with nature in a way that you can’t with just day hikes.
Backpacking & Camping Tips : Breaking In Hiking Boots
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Hiking ~ Backpacking Essentials Survival DVD Video NEW $12.99 |
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Hiking and Backpacking: Essential Skills, Equipment, and Safety by Victoria Logu $10.95 |
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Hiking ~ Backpacking Essentials Survival DVD Video NEW $14.88 |
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Hiking and Backpacking: Essential Skills, Equipment, an $19.68 |
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Hiking and Backpacking: Essential Skills, Equipment, and Safety by Victoria Log $0.99 |
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Gerber 31-000701 Bear Grylls Survival Series Ultimate Kit $67.50 The product of collaboration between Gerber and survival expert Bear Grylls, the Ultimate Kit is a 15-piece survival kit built for hostile environments. It fits in your pack and has everything you need–including Gerber’s miniature multi-tool, a fire starter, a survival blanket, and a wire cutter–to survive even in the toughest spots.Survival Series Ultimate KitAt a Glance:15-piece survival kit b… |
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Mountain House 72-Hour Emergency Meal Kit $48.99 Ideal for keeping on hand in the event of emergencies, power failures, hurricanes, floods, and other unexpected events, this 72-hour Emergency Meal Kit from Mountain House provides hearty meals that are easy to prepare under challenging circumstances. The kit includes three breakfasts, three side vegetables, and six 10-ounce packets of lunch or dinner entrees. Featuring a seven-year shelf life, al… |
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Ultimate Survival Technologies Deluxe Survival Kit Black $73.13 Deluxe Survival KitThe Deluxe Survival Kit is a collection of some of the world’s finest camping and survival gear, containing what you need to start a fire, cut limbs for shelter, and signal for help. Whatever you do outdoors, (camping, hiking, climbing, hunting, fishing, etc.) these premier recreational, safety and camping supplies can simplify your life every day, and can help save your life on… |
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Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter $89.95 A member of Katadyn’s Backcountry Series of water filters, the Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter is the first water filter that is adjustable for different conditions. It combines two leading technologies into one high-performance pump: ceramic for a longer life and pleated glass fiber for easy operation. The Vario offers a high output and also contains a replaceable carbon core to keep the wate… |
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Sawyer PointOne Squeeze Water Filter System $47.95 The Sawyer Squeeze Filter is the lightest and most versatile filtration system on the market. With a total field weight of 3 ounces and ability to roll up, it takes up virtually no space in your pack. This product includes 3 pouches (0.5 liter, 1 liter, and 2 liters) that can be reused hundreds of times. A larger 2-liter capacity bag is also available. The Squeeze filter is perfect for trav… |
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Katadyn Base Camp Water Filter $63.92 From Backpackgeartest.org The Katadyn Base Camp filter is a gravity feed filter system that utilizes a bag that is filled with unfiltered water, hung, and allows gravity to feed the water through the filter media into a water container. It is one of Katadyn’s Backcountry Series of filters. Initial Impressions The Katadyn Base Camp filter arrived at my home packaged in an attractive display box. T… |
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Basic Essentials Backpacking, 2nd (Basic Essentials Series) $1.58 An information-packed tool for the novice or handy reference for the veteran. Distills years of knowledge in an affordable and portable book…. |
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Backpacking, Backpacking Tips For Outdoor Backpacks Dear Friend,Would you like to start exploring outdoors in new exiting ways? If you enjoy outdoors, clear air, magnificent views, or if you just like a challenge and new experience and donât know much about it, then you are in a right place!In this eBook âBackpackingâ I want to give you everything you need to get started in backpacking that will allow you to experience the world in a… |
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Case Logic SNB-15 15.4-Inch Canvas Lifestyle Backpack (Blue) $31.99 With an oversized main compartment to carry your goods, a dedicated compartment for your laptop and a splash of graphics, this pack easily becomes part of your daily gear haul. Ditch the drab backpack and pick up something with a little more life… |
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Jansport Firewire Backpack (Black) $72.00 With ShockShieldtrade; laptop protection and multiple compartments, this campus pack means business… |
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Codi Tri-Pak Backpack $160 This triple compartment backpack is lightweight and compact in design, but features plenty of space for all your business essentials. The laptop compartment features room for files and accessories and a padded, upright laptop sleeve to keep your laptop secure and protected and weight properly distributed. A second compartment includes a dedicated file pocket, MP3 pocket with hidden earbud pass-through, and zippered and elasticized pockets for accessories. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Black $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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Codi Apex Backpack Black $155 Hit the pavement with the ultimate commuter backpack from CODi. Designed as a cyclist pack, the slim body-hugging design is ideal for urban commutes. Features like adjustable sternum and waist straps keep the backpack secure while navigating busy streets. The top-load center laptop compartment keeps the laptop weight directly against the back for proper weight distribution. A host of internal and external pockets keep accessories in close reach. |
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Codi Sport-Pak Technical Backpack $180 Designed to accommodate 17″ wide screen laptops, this triple compartment backpack has room for all your business essentials–with so much extra space and an abundance of pockets, it can easily double as an overnight bag. The padded, breathable back compartment keeps laptop secure and weight properly balanced. A spacious center compartment features an upright, expandable file section and extra room for books or a change of clothes. In addition to six exterior pockets, including one with earbud pass-through for MP3 players. |
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Ivar Pilot Backpack Black $120 The Ivar Pilot was designed with the professional in mind. It’s the ultimate business backpack that features a multitude of compartments (more small exterior compartments than any other Ivar model). Sleek and mature, the Ivar Pilot is also built with the Ivar patented internal shelf design for superior organization of your books, files, and computer. |
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Jansport Merit Backpack Black $54.99 Jansport’s The Merit is a great school bag with interesting designs. Ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps are very comfortable around the shoulders. Two large main compartments create versatile storage. Dual front utility pockets with organizer keeps essentials close at hand. Fully padded back panel creates cushioning comfort. Padded sleeve fits most 17″ laptop computers. Side compression straps manage load. The bag also has a web haul loop. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Weimaraner Brown $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Deep Water Blue $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Brownie Brown Her $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Zinc Grey $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Brunette Brown $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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The North Face Borealis Backpack Bombay Orange & B $89 The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a great school backpack or something for your daily routine. This backpack has a comfortable padded Airmesh back panel and a dual stretch-mesh side water bottle pockets. Large main compartment has padded laptop sleeve tha is compatible with most 17″ laptops. Large secondary compartment has organization and polyurethane (PU) zip. The backpack also features sturdy top carry handle, removable hipbelt and X-bungee lash points on front with reflective hits. |
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Clava Leather Multipocket Backpack Black $220 The Clava Leather Multipocket Backpack is a roomy bag that will help keep you organized for your everyday life. Large backpack with loads of zipper compartments-five in all. Main body large enough for files, tablets, or textbooks. Bag is fully lined with interior pocket, as well as equipped with an easy access zipper to main body located on back. |
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Clava Leather Multipocket Backpack Tan $220 The Clava Leather Multipocket Backpack is a roomy bag that will help keep you organized for your everyday life. Large backpack with loads of zipper compartments-five in all. Main body large enough for files, tablets, or textbooks. Bag is fully lined with interior pocket, as well as equipped with an easy access zipper to main body located on back. |
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Knomo Bayswater Stella 15 Backpack Black $139 This highly spacious and ergonomically designed Knomo Bags Stella ladies backpack is one of the most practical bags we have on offer. With 2 main zip compartments that fully open to the base of the bag, the quilted laptop pouch will accommodate up to a 15″ laptop. Alongside the laptop is more space for files and folders, and in the second section, a change of shoes will fit well with your daily essentials like iPod or PDA. The padded straps are adjustable for ultimate comfort. |
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Piel Leather Ladies Backpack Saddle $111.95 Item features Magnetic snap opening to three compartments, Top zip main compartment with inside zip pocket, back pocket and front pocket with cell phone compartment, Back zip pocket, Top handle, and Adjustable backpack straps. |
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Ivar Revel G2 Backpack Green $100 The 2010 next generation version of the original Revel, the Ivar Revel G2 is Ivar’s best seller urban commuter backpack. Defined by a large front utility pouch that’s big enough for sweaters, etc., the Revel G2 is the perfect outdoor/athletic designed pack for whatever your needs are. |
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Ivar Revel G2 Backpack Black $100 The 2010 next generation version of the original Revel, the Ivar Revel G2 is Ivar’s best seller urban commuter backpack. Defined by a large front utility pouch that’s big enough for sweaters, etc., the Revel G2 is the perfect outdoor/athletic designed pack for whatever your needs are. |
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Ivar Revel G2 Backpack Blue $100 The 2010 next generation version of the original Revel, the Ivar Revel G2 is Ivar’s best seller urban commuter backpack. Defined by a large front utility pouch that’s big enough for sweaters, etc., the Revel G2 is the perfect outdoor/athletic designed pack for whatever your needs are. |
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Piel Leather Ladies Backpack Black $111.95 Item features Magnetic snap opening to three compartments, Top zip main compartment with inside zip pocket, back pocket and front pocket with cell phone compartment, Back zip pocket, Top handle, and Adjustable backpack straps. |
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Clava Leather Turnlock Backpack Caf? $250 With the Clava Leather Turnlock Backpack you get to choose how you want to carry it, either by the handle or on your back. Flap w/turnlock opens to outer pocket and roomy interior that is fully lined w/zip pocket. Exterior turnlock side pockets. Top handle and adjustable shoulder straps for easy carry |
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Clava Leather Turnlock Backpack Tan $250 With the Clava Leather Turnlock Backpack you get to choose how you want to carry it, either by the handle or on your back. Flap w/turnlock opens to outer pocket and roomy interior that is fully lined w/zip pocket. Exterior turnlock side pockets. Top handle and adjustable shoulder straps for easy carry |
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Clava Leather Square Backpack Black $170 The Clava Leather Square Backpack allows the student or the business traveler two ways to carry this bag. Main compartment u-zips completely shut. Front zipper pocket. Interior fully lined with zipper pocket. Top handle and adjustable shoulder straps. |
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Clava Leather Square Backpack Caf? $170 The Clava Leather Square Backpack allows the student or the business traveler two ways to carry this bag. Main compartment u-zips completely shut. Front zipper pocket. Interior fully lined with zipper pocket. Top handle and adjustable shoulder straps. |
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Clava Leather Square Backpack Tan $170 The Clava Leather Square Backpack allows the student or the business traveler two ways to carry this bag. Main compartment u-zips completely shut. Front zipper pocket. Interior fully lined with zipper pocket. Top handle and adjustable shoulder straps. |