We hear the term all the time, but have you ever stopped to really consider, what is backpacking? The truth is that it can mean different things depending on the situation, but today we are focusing on it as one of the world’s favorite camping activities. It is not glamping, nor is it just pitching a tent at your favorite campground. It is also not about loading up your RV, although all of these other camping activities can be an integral part of it, too. Furthermore, it is more than just hiking. When you venture out into the wild for a few hours, that’s hiking. When you venture out and stay out in the wild, you’re backpacking.
The Call of the Wild
Backpacking, at its heart, is a form of camping that is superbly humbling, and the very epitome of self-sufficiency. Even when you do it with family or friends, it’s still all about you, some minimalist gear, and the wonders of the great, wild, wonderful outdoors. It is the foray and forte of hikers and explorers. It is about boldly going down lesser-known paths, journeying into areas where vehicles rarely go, and the discovery of hidden, secret, magical realms. For some, there is nothing more fulfilling or thrilling.
At the end of the day, becoming one with nature is what all campers truly want, and all the simple joys that that entails. But it is also important to note that this is also about pleasure, not just mere survival. There are essential items that every backpacker needs to really make the most of the experience. To that point, let’s talk about what some of those critical pieces are and why they’re so important.
Backpacking Essentials
The Perfect Backpack
The first must-have item you need is a great backpack. This is the storage vessel that will contain all your gear and it needs to have some very critical features to serve you well. Because you are going to wear it on your back, it needs to be comfortable and lightweight. Because its purpose is to also protect the gear inside, it should also be a waterproof camping backpack. Plus, it should be thoughtfully designed, with handy compartments that make it easy to keep items organized and accessible.
We’ll be taking a deeper dive into the wide world of backpack choices in an upcoming article, but today we’re kicking you off with 3 fantastic, highly-versatile ones that will not disappoint:
Our top pick: NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
The runner-up: The 100L King’sGuard Molle Rucksack
Best budget choice: The HANGYALI Hiking Backpack
The Best Backpack Chair
The next item that no backpacker can do without is a reliable chair. Sometimes, the ground is not a viable place to sit, nor can you expect to encounter furniture when you’re out in the middle of nowhere. Having a chair with you is a must, not just for comfort but also to keep you cleaner, dry, and away from pests. Your best choices are comfy as well as lightweight, easy to set up, and sturdy. We took a look at the most modern, ultra light camping chairs available and rounded up 3 of the best backpacking chairs you will find anywhere:
- Best standard-back option: The Cliq Camping Chair
- Best high-back choice: The BLUU Ultralight Foldable Camping Chair
- The Best bargain chair: The MOON LENCE Backpacker Chair
A Great, Portable Shower
Next on our must-have list is a backpack shower. Bear in mind that this is an activity that typically involves hiking and no small amount of physical activity. Make no mistake about it—you are going to get dirty when you backpack. Being able to clean up and wash off the day’s sweat and grime in whatever environment you find yourself in is an absolute necessity.
So, what do you need in a backpacking shower? Simplicity, ease of use, functionality, and of course, ease of transport are critical criteria. It needs to be as small and lightweight as possible since it must also have a spot in your backpack. A method of warming up the water, such as solar, is also a much-appreciated feature. Nobody wants to take a cold shower! Here are 3 top-rated picks that fit the bill:
Our favorite: The Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
The runner-up: The STEARNS Sun Shower
The best budget find: The CARTMAN Portable Solar Camping Shower
The Must-Have Backpacking Camp Shoes
Last but not least, it’s time to talk about shoes. Without a great pair of camp shoes, the best trip on the planet can quickly turn into an uncomfortable, or worse, painful trek. Good shoes are necessary. They need to be light, comfortable, well-ventilated, water-resistant, and provide good arch support, too. When you are participating in an activity that keeps you up on your feet most of the time, the footwear you choose to wear are of vital importance. Here are our picks for the best backpacking camp shoes on Amazon today, 3 designed for men, and 3 designed just for women:
- Our favorite boot-style choice – Men: Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- A great low-rise, sneaker-style option – Men: RAX Men’s Lightweight Hiking Shoes
- Best budget option – Men: NORTIV 8 Men’s Lightweight Ankle High Hiking Boots
- Our favorite boot-style choice – Women: Clorts Women’s Hiker Lightweight Camping Boot
- A great low-rise, sneaker-style option – Women: Salomon X Ultra 3 Women’s Hiking Shoes
- Best budget option – Women: NORTIV 8 Women‘s Waterproof Hiking Boots
Are You Ready to Boldly Go?
There are many other important items out there to discover that will further enhance your backpacking experience. We’ll talk more about those in upcoming articles, but hopefully, we’ve given you some inspiring ideas to get your wheels (or should we say feet?) in motion. Whether you are just getting started, or you are looking to supplement the gear you already have, you just can’t go wrong with any of the above terrific choices. So, your next camping adventure awaits, my friends! Are you ready to boldly go backpacking? Like to see more articles like this one? Drop us a note here
