Backpacking Essentials - What to Pack?
What do you think of when you hear the term "backpacking"? Do you think of exploration, adventure, and a great time outdoors? Sure, those should be the first things that come to mind, but you should also consider what gear you will need to take with you. After all, when backpacking you need to take everything you need with you.
What is Backpacking?
Backpacking is a hiking expedition that takes more than one day to complete. It is for this reason that if you choose to go on this type of excursion, you will need to take more gear and backpacking essentials than you would on a normal hike. It's a great way to relieve stress and reconnect with nature. When you go backpacking you need to pack as though you are combining several days of hiking and camping.
The first item you will need is a good backpack! The length of your backpacking adventure may determine what backpack you choose to take. A tactical backpack is the way to go no matter how big or small. Tactical backpacks have extra pockets that most, standard packs do not. These include extra places for not only general backpacking essentials but also designated spots for firearms and extra magazines.
The LA Police Gear 3 Day Backpack 2.0 lives up to its name. With enough space to hold all of your backpacking essentials for at least three days, you won't have to compromise your gear or leave anything off of your packing list. You can even add a chest pack attachment! Another great option is the LA Police Gear Atlas 72-hour Backpack. This backpack also comes in a 12 or 24-hour one depending on how long you intend to go backpacking.
What are the Backpacking Essentials?
Before you pack up your favorite, durable backpack with all of your essentials, determine where you intend to go backpacking and for how long. Among the items you should consider taking are of course plenty of water, food, and even kitchen tools. It's no secret that water and food should be at the top of your backpacking essential list. Men require approximately 3.7 liters of water and women drink about 2.7 liters. However, carrying all of that water would not be practical. Instead, you should have some water with you and pack a water filtration tool to filter or purify water you find in a creek or other water source. When it comes to food you need to pack light. Some of the best items to bring include:
-Freeze-dried meals
-Trail Mix
-Protein or granola bars
-Jerky
-Dried fruit
It is also a good idea to pack an outdoor cooking set with you. Preferably one that is packable. Remember to plan according to how long you will intend to backpack and always make sure you have a little more than you may need just in case you end up backpacking longer than you intended.
Since backpacking entails being out in the wilderness for days, shelter and keeping warm should be on your list of essentials. It's recommended to pack a sleeping bag, an emergency blanket, and even a rain poncho. There are small, packable ponchos that fold up into themselves and can be packed or even attached to a backpack or belt. Ensure you have matches if you need to safely make a campfire, and always carry a pocket knife.
Other items you should never leave out of your backpacking essentials are first aid supplies. If something happens and you are far from your vehicle, you need to take care of the situation immediately. Always make sure you have a proper, well-stocked first aid kit with you, and let someone know where you are backpacking. If someone does not hear from you when they were expecting to, it's best to let someone know where you will be on your adventure. That being said, navigation tools are also necessary to take on a backpacking trip. Cell phones are great for navigation when you have service. You should always have backup tools such as maps and compasses.
Make sure you have all of your hygiene items with you too as well as sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and insect repellent to name a few. Additional items that are a good idea to consider are two-way radios, especially if you are backpacking with someone, a lantern, and bear spray.
Backpacking Essentials-Clothing
As far as clothing goes, it is best to include moisture-wicking items in your backpack essentials. These will keep you dry which is important when you are out on a trail for days at a time. Before you pack, check the weather and plan around the forecast. It is always recommended to have a light jacket with you even if the weather is on the warmer side.
Tactical clothing made for hiking is a great way to when it comes to choosing your clothing. Boots will keep your feet protected and comfortable. Packing sandals for around camp is a good idea too. Tactical pants or shorts depending on what the weather will be should be on your packing list. The LA Police BFE Strech Pant is a good option. These pants offer comfort, durability, and flexibility as well as plenty of pockets! These also come in both men's and women's styles. The LA Police Gear Men's Core Cargo Pants are another good option. Always make sure you plan your backpacking essential list according to the weather and where you will be. No matter what the weather may be, include a hat of some kind. For cooler months a knit cap may be in order, while for warmer months including a hat that will protect you from the sun is necessary.
LA Police Gear has a wide variety of backpacking essentials including clothing, backpacks, and camping gear. Backpacking can be relaxing and rewarding, just make sure you are prepared for the journey ahead. Having the proper backpacking essentials will make your adventure much smoother so you can unwind in the wilderness.
