Is Hiking the Same as Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

Hiking and backpacking both involve traversing through nature, and the terms are often used interchangeably. But while they are both activities that involve walking outdoors, there are some key differences between them.

Gear – The type of gear used for hiking is usually much lighter than for backpacking. Hikers typically need a good pair of shoes, water, a snack or two, and some clothes suitable for the climate. Backpackers often need a lot more equipment including tents, sleeping bags, cooking supplies and food for multiple days on the trail.

Time – Hiking is usually a short day trip or excursion that takes place within a few hours or a full day at most. Backpacking on the other hand typically involves multiple days out in nature and camping overnight along the way.

Distance – The distance covered when hiking is usually much shorter than when backpacking. Hikers typically stick to trails that are shorter in length and can be completed in one day. Backpackers may take multi-day trips along longer trails to explore further into nature.

Style – When hiking the focus is usually on taking in the sights, sounds, smells and feelings of being outdoors without any time pressures. Backpackers often have to manage their time carefully as they have to reach their destination before sunset each day and plan their meals around limited cooking resources as well as other tasks that require attention along the way such as setting up camp or gathering water from natural sources.

Conclusion: Although hiking and backpacking share some similarities such as being activities that involve walking outdoors, they also have key differences such as the type of gear needed, how long they take, how far they go and what style of outdoor experience they offer. Ultimately it depends on what an individual is looking for when deciding which activity to pursue.