Essential Backpacking Skills Every Newbie Should Learn

There’s something magical about setting off on a backpacking adventure, leaving behind technology, and immersing yourself in the simplicity of nature. Whether it's the joy of navigating through dense forests, sleeping under a starry sky, or the thrill of reaching a mountain summit, backpacking offers an unparalleled connection with nature. But, for those new to the experience the idea of heading into the backcountry can be daunting. But don't worry, every experienced backpacker started as a beginner, learning the ropes one step at a time.

In this guide, we will dive into the essential skills every newbie backpacker should master to ensure your first trip is safe and enjoyable. We’ll explore everything from choosing the right gear and navigating through unfamiliar terrain, to setting up camp, cooking in the wilderness, and handling emergencies. With these skills you’ll be ready to take on the trails with confidence.

1. Mastering Backpacking Gear Essentials

Arguably the most important part of backpacking is your gear. There are so many great products out there that suit any type of backpacker, from ultralight to ultraluxe, the choice is yours. Since this gear is literally your lifeline, you should invest in quality gear (yes it can get expensive). If backpacking is something you want to do for many years, investing in lighter, more durable gear once, is better than having to purchase things multiple times. But before you buy, try different things, borrow from your friends and family to see what you like. You won’t know what truly works for you until you have to hike it up to the top of a mountain!

Choosing the Right Backpack for Your Needs

Your backpack is going to be your best friend on the trail, it’s carrying your food, shelter, and water on its back. Picking the right one is crucial, so head to an outdoor goods store and try a few on. It needs to be the right size for your body, and the right capacity for your trip. For women, a 40-65 liter pack should do the trick. For men, I would consider something in the 60-80 liter range, but again it depends on what your trip goals are. You can find ultralight 30-liter packs that could work for you as well. What you want is a backpack that fits snugly on your hips with a well-padded hip belt, because that’s where most of the weight should sit, not on your shoulders. Look for adjustable straps, water-resistant fabric, and enough pockets to keep your gear organized. I like a pack with pockets on the hip belt for my phone and snacks, and not too many bells and whistles like clips and straps as that adds extra unnecessary weight.

Selecting High-Quality, Lightweight Camping Gear

When it comes to backpacking gear, its usually the lighter, the better. You’ll thank yourself for every ounce you manage to shave off your pack weight after a long day on the trail. Start with your Big Three: your tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. These are the heaviest and bulkiest items, so invest in lightweight options. I have a blog post about which items are the best investments for cutting weight here.

A double-walled tent (a tent that has a main tent and a fly) that’s easy to set up and has good ventilation is a solid choice for most conditions. As for your sleeping bag, go with one rated for the coldest temperature you expect to encounter, and choose down for warmth and compressibility. Pair it with a compact sleeping pad that provides insulation and comfort without adding too much weight. You can read more about sleeping bag and sleeping pad insulation ratings and comfort in my post about how to sleep better at camp.

Don’t forget about the smaller items—lightweight cookware, a reliable water filtration system, and a compact stove can all make a big difference. Aim for multipurpose gear whenever possible. And always bring a repair kit because gear fails when you least expect it, like when my dogs nail poked a hole in my sleeping pad and I woke up on the ground.

Packing Your Backpack for Maximum Efficiency

The way you pack can affect your balance, comfort, and energy levels on the trail. Start by packing your sleeping bag at the bottom, since it’s lightweight and you won’t need it until you set up camp. I just stuff it in the bottom without a stuff sack and put my clothes in the nooks and crannies, I find I can fit more in my bag that way. Next, place your heaviest items like food and cooking gear close to your back, centered between your shoulders. This helps keep your center of gravity stable. Lighter items, like your water filter, and snacks can go towards the top or in external pockets for easy access. I keep items like my sunscreen and toiletries in the “brain” of my bag, to keep it organized and easy to remove at night to store in a bear-safe area. The goal is to distribute the weight evenly, so your pack doesn’t throw you off balance as you hike.

Caring for Your Gear to Extend Its Lifespan

You’ve spent good money on your gear, so it’s worth taking care of it to make sure it lasts. After every trip, take the time to clean your equipment properly. Shake out your tent, wipe it down with a damp cloth, and let it air dry before storing it. This prevents mold and mildew from taking hold. Sleeping bags should be stored loosely hanging up, not compressed, to maintain their loft and warmth. And don’t forget about your backpack—give it a good shake to remove dirt and crumbs, and spot-clean any stains. Regular maintenance, like re-waterproofing your gear, checking for wear and tear, and making minor repairs, will ensure that your gear is ready to go whenever you are.

2. Navigating the Backcountry with Confidence

GPS Technology and Navigation Apps

While traditional navigation skills are essential, GPS devices and apps have their place in your toolkit, too. They’re incredibly handy for planning routes, tracking your progress, and even finding your way back to camp if you stray off the path. Apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, and Google Maps allow you to download maps for offline use, perfect for when you’re deep in the backcountry with no cell service. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with the app before your trip and always bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered up. But remember, technology can fail. That’s why it’s important to have a map as a backup.

Identifying Landmarks and Natural Navigation Cues

Nature itself can be a great guide if you know what to look for. Landmarks like distinctive mountains, rivers, or rock formations can help you keep your bearings. Learn to recognize these features on your map and match them to what you see in the landscape. The position of the sun can also help you navigate—rising in the east and setting in the west. In the northern hemisphere, moss tends to grow on the north side of trees, though this isn’t always a foolproof method. By combining these natural cues with your map and compass, you’ll be able to navigate even when the trail isn’t obvious.

Planning Your Route and Estimating Travel Times

Proper route planning can make or break your trip. Before you set off, study your map and plan your route carefully. Consider the terrain, elevation gain, and any obstacles you might encounter. Break your route into manageable sections, and estimate how long each section will take to hike. When estimating travel times, be conservative, I always underestimate how long a section is going to take me. It’s easy to think “I can walk 5km in a hour, so it will take me 1.5 hours with a pack.” Fast forward to me hiking for 6 hours. Things like elevation and terrain can slow you down significantly, so always plan for extra time and bring a headlamp in case you have to hike in the dark.

3. Setting Up a Comfortable and Safe Campsite

Choosing the Perfect Campsite Location

Finding the right spot to pitch your tent is more than just about comfort, it’s also about safety and minimizing your impact on the environment. Look for a flat, level area that’s free of rocks, roots, and other debris. This will help you get a good night’s sleep and prevent water from pooling under your tent if it rains. Stay in the designated campsites or if none are available pick a spot at least a few meters away from water sources in case of flooding and a spot that will minimize your environmental impact. Make sure you’re not setting up camp under dead trees or branches that could fall in high winds.

Pitching a Tent Like a Pro

Pitching a tent might seem straightforward, but doing it right can make a big difference. Start by setting up your tent at home so you know how to properly assemble it. When you arrive at camp lay down a groundsheet or footprint to protect the tent floor from moisture and sharp objects. This also provides an extra layer of insulation from the cold ground. Stake down the corners of your tent, making sure the tent is taut and secure, to help it stand up to wind and rain. Finally, attach the rainfly, leaving some ventilation to reduce condensation inside the tent. Once your tent is set up, store your gear inside or in the vestibule to keep it dry and organized.

Building a Campfire (Where Permitted) and Managing It Responsibly

Before you start a fire, always check the local regulations and fire conditions. In some areas, campfires may be banned during dry seasons to prevent wildfires. If campfires are permitted, use an established fire ring whenever possible. If there isn’t one, create a fire pit by clearing a space of any flammable material, such as leaves and twigs, down to the bare soil.

Start your fire with small twigs and dry leaves or grass, gradually adding larger sticks and logs as the fire builds. Always keep your fire small and manageable, there’s no need for a bonfire. Never leave the fire unattended, and keep a bucket of water or dirt nearby to extinguish it quickly if needed. When it’s time to put out the fire, drown it with water, stir the ashes, and drown it again until everything is cold to the touch. If you don’t have water, use dirt or sand to smother the fire, but never leave it until you’re absolutely sure it’s out.

4. Mastering Outdoor Cooking and Hydration

Preparing Delicious and Nutritious Camp Meals

Planning your meals and calorie needs for a backpacking trip can be a little bit daunting because no one wants to end up in the middle of nowhere with no food! Similarly, you don’t want to carry pounds and pounds of food that you aren’t going to eat. Start by planning your meals around the length of your trip and ingredients that are lightweight and easy to pack. For breakfast, consider instant oatmeal, granola, or powdered eggs paired with dried fruits or nuts. Think of foods that are quick to prepare, filling, and provide the energy you need to start your day. For lunch, wraps or tortillas filled with nut butters, crackers and hummus, ramen, or trail mix are quick and easy. Think foods that don’t require refrigeration and are easy to eat on the go. I have a post about my favorite hiking snacks here.

Dinner is where you can get creative. Dehydrated meals are a popular choice, offering a variety of flavors and nutrients with minimal prep. You can also prepare your own meals by cooking pasta, rice, or couscous, and adding dehydrated vegetables, pre-cooked meats, and sauce packets. And for dessert, I love hot chocolate, or a piece of chocolate or candy to finish the day. Always consider the weight and bulk of your food, as well as the time it takes to cook. Aim for meals that require minimal cooking and clean-up. And remember, leave no trace, pack out all your food waste and trash.

Selecting and Using a Backpacking Stove

One of the best parts of being in the backcountry is getting to eat a warm meal after a long day of hiking. Canister stoves are the most popular among backpackers due to their convenience and ease of use. They’re lightweight, quick to set up, and don’t require priming. Simply screw the stove onto a fuel canister, ignite, and you’re ready to cook. These compact stoves are designed to be lightweight and efficient, perfect for quickly boiling water or cooking up a warm meal. Liquid fuel stoves are more versatile and perform better in cold weather, but they require more maintenance and are heavier to carry. Solid fuel stoves are ultralight and simple, but they can be slow and are best suited for minimalist hikers. No matter which stove you choose, always practice using it at home before hitting the trail. Make sure you have enough fuel for your trip, and consider the environmental impact of your stove.

Maintaining Proper Hydration on the Trail

ABF (Always Be Filterin') with the MSR Miniworks EX Backcountry Water Filter

One thing I am notoriously bad for is staying hydrated on the trail. I have learned through many a trial and error that being dehydrated drains my energy and makes me hike much slower. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and more serious health issues, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. The general rule of thumb is to drink about half a liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures, but this amount can vary based on factors like temperature, altitude, and the intensity of your hike.

Always carry a water bottle or hydration reservoir with you, and refill it whenever you come across a clean water source. In most backcountry areas, you’ll need to treat your water before drinking it. There are several methods to purify water, including filtration, chemical treatments, and boiling. I prefer a portable water filter like the MSR Miniworks EX Backcountry Water Filter, as it can pump large amounts of water quickly and is easy to use. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink, by that time, you may already be dehydrated and keep in mind that in colder weather, you might not feel as thirsty, but your body still needs water, so make a conscious effort to stay hydrated.

Food Storage and Bear-Proofing Techniques

Proper food storage is essential to keep wildlife, especially bears, away from your campsite. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and can be attracted to even the faintest scent of food. In areas where bears are common, it’s important to use bear-proof containers or hang your food in a bear bag well away from your campsite. If you’re using a bear canister, store all your food, trash, and scented items like toothpaste inside. Place the canister at least 100 feet away from your tent in a secure, flat area where it won’t roll away. If you’re using a bear bag, hang it from a tree branch at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk, with no nearby branches that a bear could climb. Even if you’re not in bear country, it’s still important to store your food securely to avoid attracting other animals. Rodents, raccoons, and even birds can wreak havoc on your food supply if given the chance. Always clean up food scraps, pack out all trash, and leave your campsite as you found it.

5. Wilderness First Aid and Emergency Preparedness

Assembling a Comprehensive First Aid Kit

When you’re miles away from the nearest help, a well-stocked first aid kit is your first line of defense against injuries and illnesses. Your kit should be tailored to the length of your trip, the number of people in your group, and any specific medical needs you might have. A basic first aid kit should include adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors, and a pair of gloves. Include pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as well as any personal medications. It’s also wise to pack blister treatment supplies, such as moleskin and antibiotic ointment. For more advanced care, consider adding a splint, a CPR mask, and a thermal blanket to your kit. And don’t forget about insect bites and stings—an antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can be a lifesaver. Familiarize yourself with each item in your kit and how to use it before your trip, and always carry a basic first aid manual for reference.

Treating Common Injuries and Illnesses

Even with the best planning, accidents can happen. Knowing how to treat common injuries and illnesses is crucial for any backpacker. Blisters, for example, are a common problem on the trail. To prevent them, wear well-fitting shoes and moisture-wicking socks. If you feel a hot spot forming, stop and treat it immediately with moleskin or blister pads. Sprains and strains are another potential issue. If you twist an ankle, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is your best bet. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and hypothermia are serious concerns in the backcountry. Stay hydrated, rest in the shade during the hottest parts of the day, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. In cold conditions, layer your clothing and keep dry to avoid hypothermia. Stomach issues like diarrhea (been there!) can also arise, often due to contaminated water or food. Carry anti-diarrheal medication and rehydration salts, and always treat your water before drinking it.

Identifying and Responding to Emergency Situations

In the wilderness, a minor situation can quickly escalate into an emergency. It’s important to recognize the signs of a serious problem and know how to respond. If someone in your group is showing signs of heat exhaustion such as heavy sweating, weakness, or nausea, move them to a cool, shaded area, and have them drink water slowly. If their condition doesn’t improve, it could progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. In cold weather, watch for signs of hypothermia, like uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, and confusion. If you suspect hypothermia, get the person into dry clothes and a sleeping bag, give them warm (not hot) liquids to drink, and provide additional insulation. In the event of a serious injury, such as a broken bone or deep cut, stabilize the injured person as best you can, and make a plan for evacuation. If you’re in a remote area, this may involve signaling for help with a whistle, cell phone light, mirror, or GPS satellite messenger.

Developing a Plan for Unexpected Scenarios

Even the most experienced backpackers can’t predict every challenge they’ll face in the wild, but having a plan can make all the difference. For example, on July 22, 2024, a massive wildfire started from a lightning strike in Jasper National Park. At 10:30 p.m. the entire park was ordered to be evacuated, including the many backcountry hikers that were out in the wilderness. Having a trip itinerary allowed Parks Canada to locate and evacuate all of the hikers to safety, which undoubtedly saved many lives. It was definitely a wake-up call for me as I was on a trail in Jasper just two weeks prior. This is just one example of why being prepared for the unexpected is so important, the wilderness is a unpredictable place, so it is important to be prepared for everything.

Whether you are headed out on a day hike or a multi-day trek you will want to leave a trip plan that includes what trail you will be on, which campsites you will be staying at and on which nights, and when you are slated to return with someone you trust at home. It is also recommended to leave another trip itinerary in your car at the trailhead in case search and rescue need to locate you. One of the best ways to be prepared is to carry a GPS satellite messenger such as the Garmin InReach, which allows you to call for help in areas not covered by cell service. You can read all about the benefits of GPS messengers in my blog post here.

I hope this guide is helpful for those of you who are interested in heading out into the backcountry for the first time. This post is just a starting point for your journey, and is by no means comprehensive. There are so many good resources out there for backpackers such as youtube, reddit, and other blogs, including my other posts which can be found here. The backcountry can be a scary place but if you go out prepared you will be safe to enjoy the incredible feeling of being connected with nature.