First Backpacking Trip? Start Here (Everything You Need), by Jon Conti on YouTube. 23 min 1 s.
- Video length
- 23 min 1 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Choose a short route with one campsite, check permit rules and confirm where you can refill water. Tell someone your plan before you leave.
Set up your shelter at home. Check the tent has all stakes, a footprint and a small repair patch, then practise pitching it once.
Match your sleeping bag to the expected overnight low and add a pad with enough insulation for cold ground. Pack a small pillow or stuff sack.
Load a 50 to 65 litre pack and adjust the hip belt first, then the shoulder straps and sternum strap. The weight should sit on your hips.
Carry a filter or purification tablets and two 1 litre bottles. Mark refill points on your route and start with water already in the bottles.
Build a small cook kit with a stove, fuel, lighter, pot, spork and easy dry meals. Test the stove at home before the trip.
Pack essentials in one pouch: headlamp, spare batteries, first aid, blister kit, knife, trowel, toilet paper, sunscreen, map and matches.
Lay out clothing in layers: a wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer, a rain shell, spare socks and a warm hat. Leave cotton at home.
Pack heavy items near your back and mid-pack, keep your sleep system low, and put snacks, water and rain gear where you can reach them.
Tips and common mistakes
Weigh your loaded pack before you leave and aim for no more than about 20 percent of your body weight.
Treat all backcountry water, even clear streams, with a filter or tablets.
Pack sleep clothes and electronics in a dry bag so they stay dry if rain gets in.
Check the forecast and carry a rain shell even on a clear day.
Questions
How much water should I carry for one night?
Start with about 2 litres and plan refills along the route. Carry more if the weather is hot or the next water source is far away.
Do I need a bear canister?
Only if the area requires one. Check local park rules and follow their food storage advice.
Can I use regular camping gear?
Yes, but it will be heavier. Borrow or rent lightweight gear first so you can test what works before buying.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
