by Rex Gutterman

Created on: April 22, 2009

You have sifted through countless trail maps and far too many pictures of majestic mountains, green valleys and dry dusty deserts trying to decide where to go on your first backpacking trip. Finally, the moment arrives when you have made your decision but you are not in the clear yet because you must decide what to pack for your adventure. The task is daunting but do not be discouraged because the following tips can help even the most experienced backpacker prepare an adequate pack for all types of weather and all sorts of situations.

What happens when you pack shorts and a t-shirt for a good weather trip (because that is what the forecast said) but Mother Nature decides it needs to rain for two straight days? There are many myths about proper packing for hiking and backpacking and one of them is that you pack clothes for the type of environment into which you are hiking. This is one of the most common mistakes a backpacker can make. The high desert, for instance, can be brutally hot during the day but drop to below freezing at night. In addition to the clothes you pack for the type of environment you think you will face, pack an additional set of clothing for the type of environment you think you will not face (a low probability, high impact scenario).
Always throw in a warm hat and a jacket despite the anticipated daytime temperature of the location to be on the safe side.

What about all those cool gadgets at REI? I have been a sucker for this snare in the past and it will most likely happen to you too. Remember, "less is more" when it comes to backpacking. While it is fun to have a few of the latest hiking gadgets on your hiking trip one only needs a few basic essentials to be prepared for an emergency situation. It is a good idea to pack the following gadgets.

1) Water purifying device or tablet. This is essential because water from streams can carry all sorts of nasty parasites that can make your trip miserable.

2) A cooking stove and fuel. The smaller the better. Try the compact folding stove used by the Special Forces and the tiny fuel cubes that go with it.

3) A knife or hatchet. If your location allows fires this is perfect for creating firewood, defending yourself from a wild animal or driving in tent stakes.

4) A cup. A small cup can double as an eating bowl and drinking cup.

5) A pot for stove. Due to concern that aluminum has some bad health effects, try a titanium pot for cooking (titanium is also very lightweight).

6) A small emergency kit. Pack a compass,

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