Backpacking

Traditional backpacking is an outdoor recreational activity for which participants usually carry their own camping and hiking supplies in a backpack. These backpackers generally walk or hike to their destinations where they set up camp. Such trips may last for one night or months.

Other backpackers are tourists looking for a unique—and often budget-friendly—experience. In many parts of the world, tourists choose backpacking as a way to immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy nature. Increasing numbers of backpackers expect wi-fi and other technology to stay connected. Such travelers, known as flashpackers, generally choose more upmarket hostels for these reasons.

Overview

Traveling with one's supplies was common among humans for many centuries. Settlements and goods were often scarce and far apart. The term backpack first appeared in the United States in 1914, when it was used to describe a pack for traveling. The hobby became popular during World War I (1914–1918) because it was inexpensive—with relatively few supplies, an individual could travel and enjoy nature. In the decades that followed, it was buoyed by a growing network of often-interconnecting trails.

Much of the appeal of backpacking is its independent spirit. Travelers may create an itinerary with a great deal of flexibility, or change plans at the spur of the moment. Many backpackers prefer to travel in groups of two or more, though others opt for solo adventures.

Trails

Most backpacking is undertaken during the summer months or in areas with year-round comfortable weather. Experienced hikers may choose snow camping in the pursuit of winter sports activities.

Mountainous regions are popular with backpackers. Established American backpacking trails include the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT). Such trails include numerous access points, which also allow travelers to replenish supplies. Many U.S. trails were opened during the twentieth century and are part of the National Trails System.

Work began on the AT during the 1920s as a means of getting away from cities. The first small section opened in 1923, and much of the trail developed during the 1930s. The AT traverses fourteen states, stretching about 3,380 km (2,100 mi) on the Eastern Seaboard, from Springer Mountain in Georgia north to Mouth Katahdin in Maine. Volunteers maintain more than 200 shelters. Many hikers attempt a hike of the full length in one season—called through-hiking—which takes months. The majority do not complete the trail in one season. Section hikers complete a portion of the trail on one backpacking trip. Some endeavor to hike the entire trail, section by section, over many trips.

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) includes five regional sections: Washington, Oregon, and Northern, Central, and Southern California. At 4,240 km (2,650 mi), it is the second-longest hiking trail in the country. The terrain includes desert, glaciated mountains, and forests, as well as an active volcano, Mount Hood. Like the AT, the PCT is attempted by many through-hikers every year. Approximately 300 begin the trek; about 60 percent successfully complete it in one trip.

Tourism

Backpacking is appealing in the twenty-first century for many of the same reasons it first became a popular activity: affordability, ease, and enjoyment. In Europe and other parts of the world, widespread public transportation systems make backpacking an appealing and accessible activity. Individuals can journey by buses and trains to hike through areas they wish to explore. Many countries boast extensive systems of affordable hostels. Many hostels include options for inexpensive dormitory-style bunks, as well as private and semiprivate rooms.

Some backpackers combine tourism with trail hiking. New Zealand, for example, has an expansive network of trails. Many of these include both urban and natural areas, including beaches and rainforests, along the way. A network of hostels and services, such as public showers, enable both those roughing it and flashpackers to get what they want out of the experience. Buses catering to hikers link widespread parts of the country.

Planning and Packing

Backpackers are often described as one of three styles of traveler: round the world (RTW), ultralight, and flashpackers. RTW backpackers generally visit several countries on a trip, which may last a few weeks or a few years. Ultralight backpackers pack maximum gear at a minimum weight. Flashpacking generally is more expensive because these travelers choose hostels or hotels over campsites.

RTW travelers can find a variety of options and strategies to save money. Many places offer a range of accommodations, from campsites to hostels to hotels. Some universities open their rooms to travelers during the summer. Savvy backpackers in Europe choose overnight train trips, which allow them to sleep comfortably on the move.

The length of a trip, trail and weather conditions, and a hiker's physical fitness determine what an individual must carry. The pack itself must be large enough to hold the necessary gear, but also comfortable. Compasses, two-way radios, solar chargers, and water filters may be valuable in the wild.

Consider the weather—is a sleeping bag enough, or is a tent necessary? Adapt to changing weather conditions by wearing layers of clothing. Boots are generally better than sneakers. A good fit and the correct socks prevent blisters. A hat and waterproof jacket protect one from the elements and biting insects.

Water is essential, as is food. Special camping cuisine, such as freeze-dried entrees, can be costly but convenient. Energy bars, trail mix, and jerky are ready-to-eat options.

Many backpackers stick to old adages, including "pack out what you pack in," and "take only pictures, leave only footprints." In the wild, this can mean carrying biodegradable toilet paper (which can be buried along with the waste), or bags in which to seal human waste and paper until they can be disposed of elsewhere. Many parks have rules about such things, and backpackers should become familiar with them in advance.

Bibliography

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