Backpacking Tips for Women

More people than ever before are going on camping trips these days. Moreover, there are currently more hikers than ever before, with women making up the majority of those who trek. Whatever spurs us on to the trail, the majority of us discover that backpacking is a powerful, soul-stirring, and sometimes even life-altering experience. The opportunity to carry what we need on our back to commune with nature and other outdoor enthusiasts we encounter on the route is simply unequaled in other aspects of life, whether we take the trail alone or with others, for a single weekend or for months on end.

Hikers of all experience levels can benefit from the inspiration of fellow backpacking enthusiasts.

Gear ConsiderationsMake sure your gear fits and works properly:

Make sure your sleeping bag and pad are of high quality, that your stove and water filter function well, that your pack is comfortable, and that you know how to put up your tent. For the above, remember to pack supplies for repair. Certain people might discover that sleeping bags and backpacks labeled as "women-specific" fit and function better than unisex or men's versions.Check that you have appropriate clothing and footwear:

Make sure the clothes you are wearing fit the weather and the place you are going. For those who are susceptible to yeast infections and urinary tract infections, fast-drying underwear is especially important because it helps avoid these conditions. Make sure your feet and boots fit comfortably as well. See our articles on selecting hiking footwear and backpacking clothing for additional advice.

Mental Preparation

Be ready if you encounter uncomfortable human interactions:

Long-distance trail users are typically gregarious, giving, and helpful people. That is not to imply bad things cannot occur. Here are some pointers to help you feel ready to cope with and steer clear of questionable situations:

Refrain from setting up camp a mile from a trailhead or road. Remain in established campgrounds when you go camping.

A game trail is not a good place to camp. You do not want to actually run into animals or hunters.

Have faith in your instincts. Don't feel pressured to respond to inquiries about your destination, camping, etc., if you meet someone that makes you feel uncomfortable. You are welcome to invent a reason to quit them. Inform them that you have to leave because you have kilometers to cover that day or that you have a giardiasis episode.

Know what to do when you encounter wild animals:
Where you want to hike, are bears and cougars present? Find out how to bear-proof your food storage and what to do in the event that an animal poses a hazard to you. If you plan to trek in bear country, you should definitely bring bear spray, and you should hike in groups of three to four people or more. For additional information, see our articles on Bear Canister Basics, Food Storage Basics, and Backpacking in Bear Country.

For less dangerous possible hazards, like snakes, research the presence of any venomous species in the area you want to visit, how to recognize them, how to stay clear of them, and what to do in the event that you come across or are bitten by one.

Know how to avoid getting lost and deal with possible injury:

To prevent becoming lost in the first place, always have a thorough topo map, GPS, and compass with you and know how to use them. Check out our articles on using a compass and reading a topo map. When hiking a long distance, be aware of your "escape" routes to civilization in case you become ill or injured and have to shorten your journey. If you're on a well-trod path, chances are good that someone will stop to offer assistance.

Embrace the solitude:

Spending days at a time by yourself may be both challenging and liberating. Without advice from others, you'll resolve your own issues and come to your own conclusions. If, as a novice, you would rather backpack in a group, look for a partner among your own friends or through local hiking clubs. As you travel alone, try to form a group of like-minded hikers. And if your path permits, there's always the reliable companion, a dog.

Physical Preparation

Make physical preparations:

There are many ways that dragging a load weighing thirty pounds or more up and down difficult terrain for several days may test you. You'll need strength and a good level of cardiovascular fitness from head to toe.