3 Skills That Drastically Improved My Backpacking Experience

While guiding one of my first trips, I was asked about the best piece of advice I could offer someone who is just starting to backpack and camp in Arizona’s backcountry. At the time, my analytical brain struggled to provide a simple answer because there are so many variables to consider when you decide to disappear into the wilderness for a few days with everything you need strapped to your body.

Although I didn’t have a good answer at the time, I’ve since thought about my personal evolution as a backpacker and remembered there was a shift in me overtime. When starting out, backpacking was an activity I enjoyed doing but understood it was going to be hard on my body. But as time progressed, I learned to take better care of myself while on the trail and as a result, my spirits were lifted and I had more energy to do fun things! Suddenly backpacking became something I loved!

In my instance, I learned 3 obvious but essential skills that led to an improvement in my overall wellbeing in the backcountry. Here’s what helps me stay comfortable.

I Learned How to Keep Myself Warm

Before sharing a little about how I keep myself warm, remember that each of our bodies are unique. The steps I take work for me but may not be entirely adequate for someone else. Continue doing your research and take the time to figure out what will keep you from being cold.

Not sure about you, but when I’m cold, that’s all I can think about. So how can you expect to have fun and enjoy your surroundings under such conditions?

Wool and down are my two best friends, and have certainly been worth the investment. I begin with a thermal baselayer (shirt and long underwear), along with a beanie and wool socks. Fleece over your baselayer is often all you need during most of our backpacking season (April through October). But for those colder spring and fall nights, a down jacket over a fleeced hoodie goes a long way.

Next, I focus on my sleep system. Again, down is your friend when it comes to choosing a sleeping bag because not only is it warmer, but it’s lighter. Thankfully, just about all sleeping bags come with a temperature rating, so consider the lowest temperatures you’ll be sleeping in before purchasing. As for your pad, keep an eye on the R-value (the higher the number, the warmer) and your particular use case.

Keep Yourself Dry (And Therefore Warm!)

Backpack Arizona’s guided tours take place primarily on the Mogollon Rim and White Mountains where the elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to over 11,000 ft. As such, the weather can turn on you really quick and thunderstorms can appear out of nowhere, so it’s important to be prepared with the appropriate gear. Afterall, a wet body plus a little wind can easily lead to hypothermia!

I never leave home without my rain jacket, a rain cover for my pack, and a tarp with guy lines so I can quickly build a shelter. In place of a tarp, you can always shelter in your tent but ensure your rainfly is set up correctly so you and your gear are protected. If you and your sleeping bag are wet for instance, you’re going to have a rough night.

Another way to find yourself soaking wet is while hiking to your campsite. Even on a cooler day you’re bound to work up a sweat with 3 days’ worth of supplies on your back! That’s why I keep a dry shirt and hoodie within easy reach. The moment you stop moving in your wet shirt is when you begin to feel cold, so be sure to have those extra clothes handy.

Ensure You Can Rest

A good night’s rest plays the biggest role in our body’s ability to recharge while on the trail and for the longest time I didn’t sleep well outdoors, making the next day’s hike out brutal. Truth be told, I didn’t prioritize my sleep when I was just starting like I do now.

Over time I’ve become a side sleeper, so it was important for me to design a sleep system that can accommodate this style. This meant bringing an extra pillow for my legs and ensuring I had a cushy enough sleeping pad while maintaining good R-value. I later upgraded to a hammock setup and haven’t looked back. Think about the conditions you need for a sound night’s sleep and apply it as best you can into your pack.

Another piece of gear that has become essential to my body’s recovery is a chair. More specifically, a chair that I can lean back in. I know some ultralight backpackers would say this is superfluous equipment that only adds weight but the ability to sit off the ground comfortably makes everything from making meals to putting on your boots a little easier.

For me, I learned by making mistakes and enduring cold, sleepless nights. Ultimately, you’ll have to figure out the steps needed to keep yourself comfortable while backpacking and camping. Luckily, I didn’t get myself into too much trouble and was able to develop a system that works well for my body. Take the time to know your limits and invest in your gear appropriately.