Do I Need a Hatchet for Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors without the need for a lot of bulky equipment. A hatchet is one tool that many backpackers find to be quite useful, but it’s not essential for every trip. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether or not you need a hatchet for your backpacking adventure.

What Do You Plan To Do?

If you’re planning on spending your time in the woods camping and hiking, then you likely won’t need a hatchet. However, if you plan on doing some light woodcutting or splitting wood for kindling or campfires, then a hatchet may be useful. It all depends on what activities you plan to do during your trip.

Are You Experienced?

If you’re an experienced outdoorsman, then you may already know how to use a hatchet and understand its importance. If this is the case, then it may be worth bringing one along on your trip – even if you don’t plan on using it much. Experienced campers can take advantage of the versatility that a good-quality hatchet provides.

Where Are You Going?

The type of terrain and environment that you plan on exploring will also dictate whether or not you should bring a hatchet with you. If there are plenty of trees and shrubs in the area that can provide firewood and kindling, then a hatchet may be helpful. However, if there aren’t many trees around or if they are too small for woodcutting purposes, then bringing along a hatchet may not be necessary.

Conclusion:

Do I Need a Hatchet for Backpacking? In most cases, no – but it all depends on what type of activities and environment you’ll be encountering during your trip. Consider what tasks might require a hatchet and decide whether or not it’s worth bringing one along with you.