Hiking and backpacking are great ways not only to get a bit of exercise and fresh air, but also to relax and escape the pressures of civilization. It doesn't usually require great expense, can be enjoyed either singly or in a group and can be done anywhere. All it really requires is a bit of preparation and knowing how to pack properly!

Preparation involves first deciding where you want to go, how much time is needed, what sort of problems are likely to be encountered, then what to take. What to take is last as all the others need to be decided first, and what to take will then need to be packed! If it is exploring the Andes or into the jungles of Africa, plan on a long trip, get some good maps and insect repellent; for hiking through Central Park this is not as essential! Each area will dictate what is needed as each area has different problems: rock slides, lions, or muggers.

What should always be taken, no matter where one goes or for how long? There are a few things that work well, are always useful, and very easy to get. Let's get packing!

Water is number one! No matter where you go or for how long, always carry a small amount of water. Purification means will be needed for longer trips, but some pre-cleaned water is always handy for a quick drink or to wash off a scraped knee. It is best to put the water in several small containers just in case one leaks. Smaller containers can be placed in several areas to distribute the weight better, but never use glass, accidents happen.

Because accidents happen, the next essential item for packing is a first aid kit (also get the training to use it, that packs in your head). The kit should contain wipes, small knife, tweezers, Band-Aids, antibiotic cream, tape and wraps. These items will cover most things that can go wrong if you know how to use them. I also throw in dental floss, as is handy for cleaning teeth, as well as a sewing needle to repair equipment when it breaks, a torn backpack can be a problem. I keep matches and a lighter in the First Aid Kit, it is the driest place and then I always know where they are.

Light weight rope is also important. Just 300 yards of heavy duty clothesline weigh virtually nothing and can be crammed in anywhere. It is great for tying splints, helping build shelters, or making snares because you didn't bring enough food.

Food should be next. It should be high calories to provide energy, full of minerals and vitamins as those are needed for working muscles and yet light so as to not weigh you down. Trail Mixes work well, so do salted nuts and nutrient snack bars such as Granola. Dried beans, rice and noodles are good for dinner, though be sure to have a pot for boiling them in.

Are there other things to pack? You should be wearing your shoes, but take extra socks. A net hammock with a blanket put under a tarp will be just as dry and warm as sleeping on the cold ground under a tent and be lighter to carry than a sleeping bag; string them up using the rope! Maps are handy, but make sure some one knows how to read them or just stay on well defined trails. Compasses, while nice, can break, so learn easy to identify landmarks or directions using nature. In exposed areas, sun block is useful. A working cell phone or two can be really helpful!

Having decided what to pack, pack it carefully putting heavy things on the bottom and things needed while hiking, rather than camping, in easy to reach locations. Head out and enjoy your hiking and backpacking excursion!

Learn more about this author, James Johnson.
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