What Is the Difference Between Backpacking and Through Hiking?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking and through-hiking are two terms often used interchangeably, but they actually mean different things. Backpacking is a form of travel in which travelers carry all their belongings in a backpack and stay in inexpensive accommodation such as hostels or camping sites. Through-hiking is the practice of hiking an entire long-distance trail from end to end, usually over the course of multiple weeks or months.

Backpacking is generally more accessible than through-hiking as it requires less planning and preparation. It can be done over short periods of time, such as a weekend or a few days, and it doesn’t require specialized equipment or expertise. Backpackers usually carry less gear than through hikers and are able to visit multiple destinations during their travels.

Through-hiking, on the other hand, requires more commitment and planning. Through hikers must plan for the entirety of their journey including food, water sources, shelter, rest stops and navigation methods. They must also be physically fit enough to cover long distances every day with a heavy pack on their back.

Through hikers typically carry much more gear than backpackers, including items such as tents, stoves and other camping equipment. They also have to plan for resupplying food supplies along their route if necessary. This process can take days or weeks depending on the length of the trail they are hiking.

The main difference between backpacking and through-hiking is that while backpacking allows travelers to explore multiple destinations over shorter periods of time, through-hiking requires more physical fitness as well as planning for an extended journey.

Conclusion: In summary, backpacking involves carrying all your belongings in a backpack while staying in less expensive accommodation such as hostels or campsites; whereas through-hiking involves completing an entire long distance trail from start to finish over multiple weeks or months with extra gear like tents and stoves while having to plan for resupplying along the way.