A checklist of the things you need to carry while you're hiking is important and will help you remember all the little pieces of gear to pack before you go. Here are some considerations to keep in mind for your backpacking trip.

You should have proper clothing for your backpacking trip. Hiking boots are a must if you're going to be doing a lot of walking and solid ones are best for backpacking mountain ranges.

Dress for the elements, such as carrying a windproof jacket or some gloves if it's cold, and bring lots of layers. It's easy to take layers off if you get too warm, but it's hard to stave off chills if you don't have enough clothing on.

Consider whether you'll be staying outdoors on a camping trip or whether you're going to be sleeping in a building. If your backpacking trip is one where you're having an outdoor getaway and want to be closer to nature, that's great, but shelter will be important. Sleeping bags and tents can be heavy to haul around, so when you're shopping for equipment, check the weights of everything you'll have to carry.

These days, it seems like everyone wants to pit their own strength and skills against mother nature. Ultra light backpacking tours have become popular and many individuals are leaving plenty of gear behind.

If you're planning an ultra light backpacking camping vacation, choose bivy sacks for shelter and lightweight food packs for meals. Factor the weight of everything you may feel is essential to your trip, especially if you'll be hiking through mountains or on steep paths.

Be picky about what you bring on your backpacking trip. While one item may seem to be a good idea to bring along, even if it is a little heavy, keep in mind that you may have plenty of other things to carry as well. The total weight you'll have to haul may mean that the fancy gadget you were thinking of buying is better off on the store shelves.

Even if you're planning a lightweight backpacking trip, the basic safety equipment is something you'll always have to have on hand. Matches, a knife, some fire starter, water, food, a compass, and a whistle are items that you should take on every backpacking trip.

You can bring along your cell phone in case of emergencies, but remember that you may not be able to pick up a signal in all locations.