Should I Take an Axe Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to backpacking, it’s important to consider the weight of the items you’re packing. Every ounce counts, and you want to make sure that you’re not overburdening yourself with unnecessary items.

An axe is a tool that can be incredibly useful on a backpacking trip, but it also adds considerable weight. So should you take an axe backpacking?

The answer depends on what type of terrain you’ll be travelling through and what kind of activities you plan to do. If you’re travelling through dense forest or need to chop firewood for your campfires, then an axe can be invaluable.

It will allow you to quickly and safely chop wood for your campfire or shelter, saving time and effort. However, if your trip is in more open terrain with limited tree cover then an axe may be overkill and add unnecessary weight.

If you decide that an axe is necessary for your backpacking trip then there are some considerations when choosing one. It should be light enough so as not to add too much bulk and weight to your pack but sturdy enough so that it won’t break easily. A good compromise between these two requirements is a folding axe or hatchet which can be easily packed away when not in use.

You also need to consider how you will store the axe while travelling – some backpacks come with dedicated pockets or compartments for carrying axes but if yours doesn’t then it’s important that the axe is secured properly so as not to cause any damage or injury during transport.

In conclusion, taking an axe backpacking depends on the type of terrain and activities planned for the trip. If an axe is necessary then choosing one which is lightweight yet sturdy is essential, along with ensuring proper storage while travelling. Overall, taking an axe backpacking can be very beneficial in certain situations but should only be done if absolutely necessary.