Backpacking : Why is it Good?

By Joseph Then

Let me ask you a simple question. Have you ever thought of backpacking? Well, if you have been thinking of the adventure and fun you will have while backpacking, then you are at the right place. This article will offer tell you why you should backpack.

What is backpacking? Backpacking is a term that has historically been used to denote a form of low-cost, independent international travel. Terms such as independent travel and/or budget travel are often used interchangeably with backpacking.

You do not need to travel with your friends when it comes to backpacking. In fact, you can go backpacking on your own

Trust me on this; you won't be alone for long. Trust me a month of backpacking does not mean a month of loneliness. There are many other like minded people traveling the way you are.

From experience, I think that the easiest and most efficient way to make friends is by taking part in group activities like scuba diving or riding ATVs. If you are staying in a hostel, I am sure there are people around who travel in groups. Why don't you just ask with a smile if you can join them?

Another reason to go backpacking is because you need to cut loose from your life. Traveling on your own lets you literally leave everything behind - work, family and friends.

Well, if you have a serious relationship and you think that you need a break, you should take a time out and go backpacking. Another alternative is to set ground rules before setting off.

Traveling alone is never easy. The first step is always the hardest. You have to be clear on what you are doing

How? Well you should do a research on the country or countries that you are going. The next thing that you should note is money. Traveling alone with not so much cash needs can be quite difficult. Next, learn how to manage your cash.

Dealing with unfamiliar things around you can be overwhelming. Take it as a learning experience. Afterall, that's the purpose of backpacking.

It always helps to carry a guide book around so that you can figure your way around. Well, if you are thinking that ou will get home sick trust me, the first week will be difficult but after that, you'll be enjoying your adventure.

Bringing home the different perspective of life is priceless. Some may be wondering why I say this. Simple, you have a first hand experience of different cultures and knowledge.

What more can you ask for? Gain as much knowledge by experiencing what locals do and how they spend their day.

Now that you are armed with this knowledge, I am sure you will be confident enough to set off into this learning experience on your own.

About the Author:

Backpacking can be a great experience, even if you go backpacking alone. Avoid all the newbie's errors by reading up a couple of Backpacking Tips. Go to this website and find out more about backpacking : http://www.backpackingtips.net

Top Essentials When Backpacking or Hiking For an Extended Stay

By Shawn Stanley

When choosing an outdoor sport to spend some time in the great escapes of the world, backpacking and hiking are the best of all possible choices. Getting in touch with nature and viewing the world from a spot that is secluded and wonderful are great choices for individuals and families. When preparing for backpacking or hiking, it is important to being along some true essentials in order to make for the safest possible trip one can prepare for.

The suns rays. The sun can be very damaging to many parts of the body. When backpacking or hiking, the sun can be in contact with the skin and eyes the entire day spent walking. Sunscreen that is waterproof and of an SPF of 30 or more can provide just enough protection for the skin. The eyes, on the other hand, are the body parts left unprotected. Including a pair or two of sunglasses in every pack will help to make the trip easy to see and safer for the eyes.

Safety First. Many people forget about safety when backpacking or hiking, but there can be problems and when there are, a whistle can help. Depending on where you are backpacking or hiking, a whistle with no "pea" (the small ball in the center) may be the best choice. If the backpacking or hiking is taking place during cold months, the "pea" could freeze. Along those same lines, a plastic whistle will be sure to never stick to your lips in the cold.

The fluid of life. Water will be the largest part of the backpacking and hiking trip. With constant movement comes the constant need for water. Every team member will be packing water for the trip, but for safety, a constant water supply will need to be assured. An outdoor water filtration device can turn any water into drinkable water in a few minutes.

Starting a fire. For those overnight trips, a firestarter or set of waterproof matches are ideal for a little warmth and a warm meal. But, many backpacking and hiking trips are only day trips and the backpacking and hiking team feel they may not need these things. One the contrary, as a safety measure, every member should include a way to start a fire in their packing essentials.

First aid first. A first aid kit should be prepared for every backpack used during the backpacking and hiking trip. If only one packer has access to a first aid kit, the other hikers will be unable to provide first aid in the case that the group loses touch with each other. A first aid kit should include a pocket knife and a set of pocket tools for everyone.

Know Your Way. A map and a compass are two things that no backpacking or hiking can do without. These will keep you going in the right direction when things get turned around. Each pack should have their own set for guidance. On a more advanced tip, many backpacking or hiking trips are being centered on the new GPS technologies making getting lost even more difficult.

Choosing backpacking or hiking as a sport is a great choice and a fun choice, especially when friends and family come along for the hike. When new to the sport, it is important to keep all of these items in every pack in order to keep the team safe and productive during the backpacking or hiking trip.

About the Author:

Before you head into the great outdoors next time make sure you're prepared by checking out our resources on hiking safety and backpacking safety. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service