What Is the Difference Between Trekking and Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

Trekking and backpacking are two popular activities that involve a long journey with the intent of exploring and enjoying nature. Both activities involve carrying your belongings on your back, and both involve significant physical exertion.

The main difference between trekking and backpacking is the duration of the journey. Trekking usually involves a short-term journey, usually lasting no more than a few days. Backpacking, on the other hand, is typically a longer-term journey that could last anywhere from weeks to months.

Trekking is often done in mountainous terrain and involves hiking for several hours each day in order to reach one’s destination. It requires a good level of physical fitness as well as knowledge of the area you are travelling in. The focus of trekking is more on the journey itself rather than reaching any specific destination.

Backpacking tends to involve travelling for longer periods of time with a focus on reaching certain destinations along the way. It can involve camping in remote areas or staying in hostels, guesthouses or other forms of accommodation en route. Backpackers also often carry all their belongings with them, as opposed to trekkers who may opt to hire porters or pack animals to carry their supplies.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, trekking is generally shorter-term activity focused on exploration, while backpacking is generally longer-term activity focused on reaching certain destinations along the way. Both activities require physical exertion and involve carrying your belongings on your back.