Backpacking 101
Resources
The Goal of Backpacking 101:
Our goal for our Backpacking 101 class is to introduce and educate you on the options available for gear. How to shop smart, pack efficiently, and know your way around the gear you already have. You should be able to start putting your own pack together for a hike with friends. During this class, you may have been introduced to a lot of gear that you are excited and anxious to buy, but for those big-ticket items we encourage you to take out what you already have so you can see what you like, don’t like, and what others might have that could work for you!
Backpack
CAPACITY
1-3 Nights: 30-50L
3-5 Nights: 50-80L (used in winter for shorter trips for extra layers)
5+ Nights: 70+ L (used in winter for shorter trips for extra layers)
TORSO LENGTH
Some brands offer different sizes, some offer adjustable torso support
Adjustable suspension helps modify your bag to fit your torso
FIT
80%+ of the weight of your backpack should be supported by your hips
Hip-belts usually accommodate a wide range of sizes
Smaller cottage companies offer custom waists to accommodate those with extra small or large waists
FRAME
Internal-frame backpacks: Most backpacks sold today are body-hugging internal frame packs that are designed to keep a hiker stable on uneven, off-trail terrain.
External-frame backpacks: An external-frame pack may be an appropriate choice if you’re carrying a heavy, irregular load, like toting an inflatable kayak to the lake. External frame packs also offer good ventilation and lots of gear organization options.
Frameless backpacks: Catered to those seeking Ultralight options so they can hike fast and light. They can become painful if over-packed with weight.
OTHER FEATURES
Suspended Mesh backs for ventilation
Multiple Access points to main compartment
Removable top lids/day packs
Hydration bladder pocket & access
Shelter
What size do I need?
Two person -vs- Three person tents
“Two-person” is not always comfortable for two people
Consider two air mattresses, sleeping bags, packs, boots, etc.
“Size up” on ultralight tents if you prefer more room
Aim for <2lbs but 3lb is still a great weight for backpacking
Sleep System
Sleeping Bag Temperature Ratings
Sleeping bag temperature rating identifies the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep an average person warm. Always buy with the lowest temperature you plan on encountering in mind.
Comfort Rating: indicates the lowest temperature in which the average woman will sleep comfortably in that bag.
Lower Limit Rating: indicates the lowest temperature in which the average man will sleep comfortably in that bag.
Stoves
Before buying your stove, take some of these things into consideration:
do you just need to boil water or need to cook with a pot?
are you planning on using this in a high altitude or cold climate?
are you using it for just you or a group?
how long will you need to go before getting more fuel?
will you have flat area to set your stove up?
Online Resources
LighterPack: Website that helps you track the gear you bring on adventures. Easy to use spreadsheet to track quantity, weight, and inventory.
AllTrails: Search for nearby trails, read reviews and comments, create your own trail, record your trip. Good website & app for beginners.
Gaia GPS: For a more intermediate map-reader and hiker. Record your trip, create routes, set waypoints, organize by folders.
Smoky Mountain Backcountry Permits: Find and reserve backcountry sites for a trip in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Mountain-Forecast: Get more detailed weather forecasts of summits like Black Balsam Mountain, Mt. Mitchell, and Mt. Cammerer
Osprey Packfinder: Osprey pack’s quiz to help narrow down the pack that might be best for you from the Osprey Brand