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When it comes to the great outdoors, there is no better way to enjoy it than by going backpacking. When it is planned well, a backpacking trip can be the most fun someone has in their lives. It is a real formative experience and could mean the start of a lifelong love. But for women in particular, there can be a tendency for those with no experience to get it wrong. Clothing is really important for backpacking and might actually be the thing that makes or breaks the trip. While safety is always the number one concern, comfortable and functional clothing runs a very close number two. These are my tips, based on years of experience.
Get The Right Boots
It cannot be emphasised enough: the right boots are the most important part of any backpacking kit. When there is a lot of distance to cover on foot, it can quickly become very miserable if the boots are not right. They can cause rubbing, blisters, overall soreness, and general fatigue. Boots should fit very well and be sturdy, with some degree at least of waterproofing. They should not move around on the foot, nor should they be too tight. Boots should also be worn in before the actual trip to ensure that they work well, and they should be worn with thick woollen socks over a polypropylene liner to ensure the maximum level of comfort. I know from experience that cheap cotton socks are just a recipe for blisters and uncomfortable walking.
Wear The Right Trousers
It is also really important that you get the right clothing, starting with your trousers. Do not bother with jeans as they will never dry once they get wet – and they can also be very uncomfortable in hot weather. You are better off with a pair of trousers in a material that dries quickly and is not too stiff. Skirts and dresses are often designed for form rather than function, so buy the type of clothes based more on how they feel, some great options for women’s clothes here. You can bring running shorts for the warmer days as they will provide flexibility as well as being comfortable. I often find that they are good for use at night as well when you want to sleep in a sleeping bag or to protect yourself from cheap hostel sheets.
Layer Your Tops
With your travelling, you want to have as little as possible in your pack. This allows you to travel light – I know I couldn’t go half as far as I do if I was weighed down by more than one bag. I always pack at least one long-sleeved shirt for skin protection and warmth; one vest for hot weather; and one zip-up jumper which can be worn in changing weather conditions. I also swear by my waterproof coat, of course! Hats and gloves are good additions, but only if you are particularly sensitive to cold in your hands – you will quickly heat up and want to take them off, so pockets might be just as good for warming up.
These are just my top tips, and there is plenty more to go into. But for amateurs, part of the fun is figuring out your own little hacks for backpacking. It is worth making a mistake here and there to learn the best ways to do things!
