How Many Shoes Should I Take Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

When it comes to backpacking, there is a lot of gear that needs to be taken with you. Your backpack should be filled with essential items like clothing and a tent, but one of the most important things to remember is your shoes.

Depending on the type of journey you are taking, the number of shoes you should bring will vary.

For Weekend Backpacking Trips

If you are only planning on going on a weekend backpacking trip, you will likely not need more than two pairs of shoes. One pair should be dedicated for hiking and the other for casual wear.

It’s important that your hiking shoes are comfortable and provide good ankle support so that your feet don’t get tired easily. While it may not be necessary, it might also be a good idea to bring a pair of sandals or flip-flops for lounging in camp or after a long day of hiking.

For Longer Backpacking Trips

If you are planning on taking an extended backpacking trip, then you should be prepared to take a few more pairs of shoes with you. While having two pairs of hiking shoes is ideal (so that they can rotate and dry between days), make sure that both are comfortable and supportive.

It’s also important to bring along some extra footwear like sandals, flip-flops or running shoes for when you’re not out in the wilderness. These will come in handy when exploring towns or cities along your route.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing how many shoes to take backpacking, it all depends on the length of your journey and what activities you plan on doing during your trip. For weekend backpacking trips, two pairs should suffice – one for hiking and one for casual wear. For longer trips, having at least three pairs is recommended – two for hiking with one extra pair for other activities.