While there are some variable to consider like climate, duration of your trip, type of backpack you own and a few others, there are some basic principals for packing a backpack that you can adapt to practically any situation.
First, pack for comfort. One factor that greatly affects your level of comfort while backpacking is the weight distribution of your gear. Basically, you want the heavier gear in the middle of your pack. Also, make sure the total weight of the backpack is evenly distributed on each side.
Second, pack for accessibility. Make sure that the items you need more often are easier to get to. A good plan is to pack in layers starting on the bottom with your sleeping bag, followed by your tent, then your bedroll, cooking gear, toiletries, first aid kit and, finally, food.
Your clothes can be packed according to the need to balance the weight of your gear. If the heavy equipment is too far down, add some clothes underneath it, otherwise, place your clothes on top.
Besides the top of your pack, use the side pockets for things you need to grab quickly. Some of these items might include your rain gear, snacks, water bottles, insect repellent, maps, gloves, etc.
Another accessibility issue deals with gear that goes together. Pack items that are used for similar purposes near one another in your backpack.
Finally, pack for prevention. Pay special attention to the following tips so that you an avoid ruining your gear. Keep plastic and loose fabric away from zippers. If caught, you run the risk of damaging your gear, breaking the zipper or both.
Keep anything that has liquid contents upright and, if possible, in a hermetically closed bag. Any hazardous materials or products that could stain your clothes or destroy your food should be packed in outer compartments.
There are two final tips that make packing a backpack an easier task. One, begin early. Give yourself plenty of time. You are more likely to forget important items or pack badly if you are under pressure to get it done quickly.
The second tip is to make a list of all the items you want to pack in your backpack. Once completed, prioritize the items. Include essential gear at the beginning of the list and stuff you would like to take but are necessary towards the end.
When you start the packing, begin with item number one. Go down the list until your backpack is either full or reaches a weight that you are comfortable with.
Now you're ready to hit the trails.
Due to the nature of the activity, hiking can pose some risks and challenges. Among them, getting lost is probably the most common since hikers throw caution to the wind and think that it won't happen to them. Experienced hikers will tell you that tracking your hike and planning your route are as essential as bringing proper equipment and provisions. The best tool you can use is a Global Positioning System or GPS, which uses satellites to locate your position no matter where you are.
A basic unit has controls and a display to show you your latitude (east-west location) and longitude (north-south location). They also have a number of channels so you can switch frequency when there is interference. While the very basic models will suit your purpose, there are a number of options that are beneficial and sometimes essential depending on the types of hikes you're doing.
Added features include waterproof casing which is a must if you think you'll be hiking through streams or rivers or combining your outdoor activity with rafting. Another is a digital compass which is beneficial as a quick reference. Altitude reading is another good option to have. Figuring out altitude when planning a hike on a map can be a lot of guesswork but when used in conjunction with a GPS unit you can figure out the grade and altitude of your hike.
There are less essential options that will help you with location and tracking. These include such features as the ability to download maps of your area and zoom and relocate. Some have a back lit display so they are easier to read at night and a tracking log so you know where you've been. A built in compass does not require you to be moving to determine your location.
One selling feature of GPS units is the number of waypoints or ways of finding your location (there are many more than latitude and longitude). This term is also used as the number of landmarks the unit will display with a map uploaded. Showing too many landmarks can make it too confusing to read so more is not always better.
Prices vary depending on the model and brand of GPS unit and they generally range from $100 to $300. You usually get what you pay for but you can sometimes find deals on older models.
While using the internet to research user reviews and GPS unit features is beneficial, you should test out units to see which one is best for you. Find a store that specializes in units and has a staff knowledgeable on GPS unit features.
If you do your research and know what you'll need your GPS for, you'll find the unit that is right for you.
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