10 Things to Expect on Your First Backpacking Trip, by Let's Hit the Trail on YouTube. 15 min 31 s.
- Video length
- 15 min 31 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Choose a route of 3 to 5 miles each way to a designated campsite. That way you reach camp with daylight left to pitch your tent and cook.
Lay out all your gear, then cut about a third of it. Most first-timers carry too much weight, and every extra kilo shows on the climbs.
Test your sleeping pad and bag at home before you go. Pads often feel different under a tent floor than they do in the shop.
Expect a rough first night of sleep. New noises, a new pad and early dark are normal, so plan an easy second day.
Pitch your tent with the vents open and away from low ground. Condensation builds fast when you close everything up.
Pack a warm layer and a hat for camp. Evenings at a campsite feel much colder than the trail did in the sun.
Adjust your pack so the hip belt carries most of the weight. Shoulder straps should sit snug without pinching your neck.
Fix small problems the moment they appear, like a hot spot on your foot, a loose strap or a leaking bottle. Early fixes stop big failures.
Plan simple food you actually like, including something you can eat cold if your stove fails. Test the stove at home first.
Expect a hard hour at some point. Eat something, drink water, rest and reset your goal before you decide anything.
Tips and common mistakes
Tell a friend your route, campsite and expected return time before you leave.
Carry a paper map, a compass and a headlamp with spare batteries, even on a marked trail.
Keep the first trip to two days and one night, since that teaches you plenty.
Weigh your loaded pack at home and aim for about a fifth of your body weight.
Questions
How heavy should my pack be for a first trip?
Aim for roughly 20 percent of your body weight or less. Beginners usually feel the difference on the first climb.
Do I need a permit to camp overnight?
Often yes. Check the land manager's website for the area you plan to camp in and book ahead if it is required.
What if I barely sleep at camp?
That is common on the first night. Stay warm, keep your setup simple and give yourself an easy next day.
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.
