Is a Hatchet Necessary for Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking is an incredibly popular way to explore the great outdoors and experience nature. It requires minimal equipment, and that’s part of its appeal. But is a hatchet necessary for backpacking?

The answer to this question depends on what type of backpacking you are doing, and how much weight you are willing to carry. If you are planning on a long-distance hike or taking part in multi-day hikes, then a hatchet can be a useful tool for cutting firewood and performing other camp chores.

A hatchet is also helpful for camping in remote areas, as it can be used to clear paths and make room for your tent. However, if you are only planning short day hikes or overnight trips, then the extra weight of a hatchet may not be worth it.

Another consideration when deciding whether or not to bring a hatchet is where you will be backpacking. If you will be in a heavily wooded area with plenty of trees and logs that could easily be cut down with an axe, then carrying one might make sense. However, if the environment is more open and there are few trees around, bringing an axe could just add unnecessary weight.

Finally, consider how experienced you are with using an axe or hatchet safely. If you have never used one before or lack confidence in your ability to do so properly, then it’s probably best not to bring one along on your trip.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, whether or not a hatchet is necessary for backpacking depends on the type of backpacking you are doing as well as the environment in which you will be hiking. Experienced backpackers may find that bringing an axe can provide useful benefits such as cutting firewood and clearing paths; however, if you lack experience using one safely then it may not be worth bringing along.