Skills
Backpacking for Beginners
If you enjoy camping and hiking, take it to the next level with backpacking. Here's a primer on how to get ready for your first trip.
How to Go Backpacking
Articles: 8
If you're ready to venture beyond the car campground by putting a pack on your back and hitting the trail, you need to learn a few basics. We cover everything from trip and meal planning to how to go to the bathroom in the woods. Plus, we made a printable checklist so you don't forget any essentials.
Skills
How to Plan a Backpacking Trip
Learn practical tips for planning and organizing a backpacking trip, such as how to choose a destination and pack appropriately.
Skills
How to Pack and Hoist a Backpack
Learn the tricks for packing and hoisting your backpack, including ways to balance the load, organize gear and ensure essentials are handy.
Skills
How to Set Up a Tent
Learn how to select a good campsite and get tips on setting up your footprint, poles, rainfly and guylines when you’re pitching your tent.
Skills
Backpacking Food Ideas & Meal Planning
Eating is one of the best things we do on the trail. Learn tips on how to plan snacks, breakfasts, lunches and dinners for your next backpacking trip.
Skills
How to Treat Water in the Backcountry
Get handy water-treatment tips and learn about protozoa, bacteria and viruses in lakes and streams, and how to avoid contaminated sources.
Skills
How to Go to the Bathroom in the Woods
Before you gotta go, make sure you know where to go and how to Leave No Trace when you do.
Checklists
Backpacking Checklist
Our comprehensive backpacking essentials checklist features required and optional gear, clothing and accessories. Hit the trail with confidence!