Backpacking can be an exhilarating outdoor activity, but it can be very physically challenging. The most important step to making your trip more delightful is packing well. You should only take items and articles that are absolutely needed. Taking the only necessary items will lighten your carrying load and let you enjoy your adventure more.

The first step to ensuring for a well packed backpack is to make a list. In this list include everything you will need on your trip. Do not try to remember things on your own, write everything down. Include everything that you will need and may need for your trip. This will help with any confusion and you never know what will come in handy. Always follow the rule of backpacking; if you’re not sure you will need it, and then you will not need it. Following this rule will help you have less to carry, especially something you may not make use of. For example, instead of bringing a large flashlight, bring extra batteries and a bulb in needed.  You may want to bring a handheld flashlight and/or a headlamp for hands free use.

When packing your food for your trip, pack mostly freeze-dried meals; this will also lighten your carrying load. Try to avoid packing raw meats when you are on a long trip. Carry light snacks that can be stored in Ziploc baggies for freshness and a light load. 

Make sure to check your map and determine where your water stops are available. The suggested amount of water you should carry while backpacking is about 64 ounces, anymore then that would be too heavy. Most of the time water is available at your campsites from either lakes or streams. Before drinking natural water use purification tablets for your safety.

When looking for a tent for your trip, shop for one that fits your needs. If you try to purchase a tents with all the options included this can slow you down. Anything extreme will be too heavy and not necessary to carry. For instance a lightweight two man tent would be sufficient for a backpacking trip. Bring a sleeping bag and a ground cushion to insulate you from the ground at night. You may also want to bring a pillow for head support.  

There is no hiking dress code so wear whatever you will be most comfortable in. Always keep a poncho on hand in case it rains. I would suggest wearing hiking boots on your trip; they are most durable and they help protect your feet and ankles. Hiking boots are also waterproof. When you wear hiking boots always wear heavy duty socks with them to protect your feet.

Since you will be cooking all your meals in pans, buy ones that are made from aluminum or titanium with a non-stick surface. Pots with handles are the easiest to handle and make sure they are large enough to cook everything in.

Then obviously you want to bring along some sort of tinder with you for your fire. Some examples of tinder are cotton, newspaper and dryer lint. Keep your tinder lubricated with Vaseline for easier and longer burning.  Also bring along a few fire starters and a large supply of waterproof matches.

As for your hiking back pack use one specifically for hiking. They are intended for hiking so they will hold up through whatever adventure you may seek out. Pack your solid heavy gear at the bottom for the best support. Keep your sleeping bag strapped to the bottom. Keep your tent and sleeping mat on the sides of the back pack. Then pack your cooking gear and clothes in the inside at the bottom of your pack. As for your outside pockets place all of your miscellaneous and things you may need on-hand right away. Pack your map, matches, fire starters, ECT. in a couple of garbage bags for extra waterproof safety.

Tips:

~Always bring extra socks

~Try to dress with extra layers for warmth; get to hot take them off

~If you can afford it, invest in a GPS

~Learn how to read a map and use a compass

~Always hike on trails with water spots, you are less likely to get lost

~Buy a good tent; don’t let the price scare you. Make sure your tent is light. Get use to carrying your tent around before going on your trip

Warnings:

~Never hike alone, its never safe

~Always ensure someone of your location

~Keep a charged cell phone on hand, and do not over do your hike; your body will let you know when you have had too much.