Choosing the Best Backpack

It is one of the most important purchases you will make before you leave. It can make or break your trip. Choosing the right backpack is can be harder than finding a needle in a haystack. I have compiled a few tips to help you make the right choice.

Size IS Important

You need to look for a backpack that is the right size. A pack that is too small will not accommodate all your items or too big will make you uncomfortable. The reason for this is you will not be able to carry all your items as some items are better kept separately. If you are a small person then you can leave certain items out. If you overpack you will need larger bags or you will need to go to the restroom a lot sooner than you thought. The last thing you want is to have items stolen or misplaced.

The Bag Flap

Find a bag with a flap that covers the entire bag. If it has a drawstring or a cord as it is sometimes called, cover the entire bag and the inside of the flap with your clothing. This will keep you dry and keep the cold out.

I have a feeling most people don't read beyond this bare-bones camping advice. The main reason is its effectiveness. You do not want to be stuck on the side of a mountain with your gear. You are going to use the bag plenty of times. I keep on a minimalist basis and usually pack in one large laundry bag. I do bring along my mini water filter.

This bag is about 7 inches high, 14 inches long, and 2 inches wide. I added a blanket to put in the bottom.

Food

My bag list depends on how much I want to eat. ForDogPalooCamping solutions, I put in all the items for which I would like to have hot, s'mores, or a nice hot cup of tea. There are several recipes you can use, store bought or you can make your own. You can decide on hot cocoa or instant coffee.

Coffee

I normally bring two cups of coffee, one with a two-ounce bag of sugar and the other with iced.

TEA

I find myself buying an instant cup from Starbucks. Nothing beats it. It mixes easily, warm or cold, and is a great way to switch up a meal.

Dairy

I generally will bring along small amounts of butter, cream cheese, and those shelf-stable foods such as canned soy milk, canned chicken and beef stew, store-bought frozen dinners, and bottled water for my drinking water.

Mandatory Items

If you are camping in a designated campground you will need to bring along the following items. Not to mention how many wild animals you might run into.

Bring along a topographical map and compass. learning how to use a compass is essential while you are camping in the outdoors.

Insect repellent. I used to cross that river with a donut but as soon as I started canoeing it was night and I had to put off the donut. I ended up finding a secluded spot on the bank of the river and camping there.

Sunscreen. You would be surprised at how many people forget this item and how painful the sunburn is.

Pocket Knife. This item is very important. You will use this item lots. Take a good-quality knife that has a fixed or locking blade.

Blankets and Sleeping Bags

Most backpackers prefer to sleep under the stars or in a sleeping bag. When you are camping you can't bring anyone or everything with you. You have to be the man of the woods.

There are several inches often in your sleeping bag, and that goes for the insulation as well. To heat the bag you'll want to add a toasting fork, a smaller spice container, or your cooking pan.

Camping Equipment

Once you have all your camping equipment, it's time to create a checklist of equipment you might need. Here is my list for roughing it:

Pack the heavier the better. I've used that big 15-pound sleeping bag on trips where I had to carry it at least three pounds heavier. You can get lighter choices, but you'll have to wait until you're out on the trail to find out which is the best bet.