Backpacking 101: What You Need to Know to Get Started- Monica Prelle

Rating: ***

Monica Prelle teaches readers how to properly prepare themselves for their backpacking trip in, “Backpacking 101: What You Need to Know to Get Started”.

In this article, the author describes the three main steps to take before heading out on your trip, to ensure a safe and enjoyable time. “Get Fit Before You Go”, is her first piece of advice. Getting your body ready for the long hikes, extra weight on your back, and backpacking gear will prove to be a very important tip for many backpackers. Having the necessary fitness level is key to having a good time. “Test Your Gear”, is her second recommendation. Making sure you have all of the essential equipment, and that it works properly is extremely important. You will want to know how to use your gear as well. “Plan your Backpacking Adventure”, is her third tip. Planning a proper route that is appropriate for your fitness level and the amount of time you have is a must. Figuring out transportation to and from the park is also something that every backpacker should do. Find a partner or group to go with, make sure you know where all of the water sources are in your area, find out the park rules and regulations, check the weather, and be prepared for anything. Finally, Prelle tells us to “Hit the Trail”. Clean up after yourself, try to leave no trace, be considerate of others, and have a good time!

This article has reinforced the knowledge that I obtained earlier this semester about backpacking trips. It has made me remember the importance of planning ahead, and being prepared. It has inspired me to learn more on the subject if I ever plan to go on a backpacking trip on my own in the future. I will try to pass along the knowledge that I have gained from this article. “Backpacking 101: What You Need to Know to Get Started”, is a very useful tool that I believe will make a backpacker’s trip safer and more enjoyable.    

Prelle, Monica. 'Backpacking 101: What You Need To Know To Get Started'. Reserveamerica.com. N.p., 2014. Web. 15 Nov. 2014.