Backpacking 101

Having come to love the peacefulness and beauty of the great outdoors at an early age, I sometimes take for granted that everyone doesn’t possess the knowledge learned from previous encounters with Mother Nature that I have. To this end I intend to share some basic ground rules that if followed can ensure beginners, taking part in their first outdoor exploration, remain safe and have the time of their life.

Learning to be totally self-reliant in the wilderness brings with it a feeling of accomplishment that is very fulfilling. You are on your own, completely dependent on your individual skills, energy and knowledge. If you're careless, you could get hurt, or worse. If complete self-reliance is frightening to you, think twice before you attempt an overnight trip and do lots of research on the area you intend to explore. Traveling with experienced hikers and campers is a great idea for those with little or no experience in
the wilderness.

The good and the bad of nature are both present in the backcountry, and it can be difficult to predict which face nature will reveal to you on any given day. The faint presence of danger is what gives backcountry exploration its distinctive appeal. Always be prepared for the unexpected. The Boy Scouts’ motto “Be Prepared” is truly intended to remind us to take nothing for granted when it comes to dealing with the great outdoors.

Hiking helps you to escape from a fast paced, complex and often stressful world. Some hikers enjoy a slow, relaxed walk, taking in the scenery, while others like to take on nature and push themselves to the limit.

By: H. Jeffrey Davis

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H. Jeffrey Davis authored this article. H. Jeffrey is an avid outdoor enthusiast. Given the stressful demands of our modern lifestyle hiking and camping in the great outdoors is a great way to relax. This fact hasn't gone unnoticed and he takes great pleasure in sharing pointers and suggestions with his readers. If you're looking for top quality camping and hiking gear he recommends www.campoutcity.com