Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors, but if you don’t have the right gear, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. One of the most important things to consider when backpacking is your base weight.
This is the weight of all your essential gear (excluding food and water) that you will need to take with you on your trip. Here’s what you need to know about base weight and how to choose the right one for your next adventure.
Understanding Base Weight
Your base weight should include all the essential items that you need for backpacking, such as sleeping bags, tents, cookware, clothing, first-aid kits, and other items. It should not include food, water or other consumables that you will need on your trip. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to aim for a total base weight of 10-15% of your body weight.
Choosing Your Gear Wisely
When it comes to choosing your gear for backpacking, it pays to invest in quality rather than quantity. Look for lightweight gear that is designed specifically for backpacking and has features like waterproofing and additional pockets or compartments. You should also look at items such as sleeping bags that are rated for different temperatures so that you can choose one appropriate for the climate where you will be traveling.
Packing Lightly
Once you have chosen your gear carefully and made sure that it meets all your needs, it’s important to pack lightly. Try packing only what is absolutely necessary and leaving behind any non-essential items such as books or electronics. Also consider packing multi-use items such as a tarp which can double as shelter or extra clothing layers when needed.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing a good base weight for backpacking trips, it’s important to do some research into what types of gear are best suited for where you are going. Make sure that all of your essential gear is lightweight yet durable enough for the conditions you will be facing. Finally, remember to pack lightly so that you don’t overload yourself with unnecessary items.
Conclusion: What’s a Good Base Weight for Backpacking?
A good base weight for backpacking trips should generally be 10-15% of an individual’s bodyweight. It’s important to choose quality lightweight gear designed specifically for backpacking and pack only what is absolutely necessary in order to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.