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It takes a lot to prep before heading out on your first overnight backpacking trip.
Thorsten Henn / Getty Images
Weve broken downwhat gear youll need overallandhow to pack foodso you dont go hungry in the wilderness.
So you have to verify to think ahead and bring it all with you.
The biggest thing to consider?
Theres likely to be a range of weather conditions, no matter where you go.
How do you ensure all the basics are covered so you could have a good time in the wild?
It’s all about layering, Margeson says.
From my experience, I couldnt agree more.
By base layer we mean the layer that is closest to your skin.
The right choice often comes down to personal preference and where youre going to be hiking.
Likewise, long-sleeved shirts may feel impossible to wear in humid areas.
These fabrics are quick-drying and sweat-wicking, essentials in the wilderness.
Stay away from cotton.
Plus, the long dry time canlead to chafing.
For a shirt, Broadhurst relies on a collection ofLululemon tank tops, which are durable and sweat-wicking.
The same thing goes for pants.
Wool is usually the best option, as its warm but also naturally sweat-wicking.
Finding good hiking underwear is kind of tricky, says Margeson.
Look for wool or synthetic options.
you’re free to find synthetic bra and underwear options anywhere.
OK, so you know what youre going to wear while youre actively hiking.
Up next is the mid layer, or the layer that helps you retain heat when necessary.
So lets assume youre going with a puffy.
There are a few big things you better know, says Margeson.
First, that synthetic material puffy jackets dont lose all of their insulative properties when they get wet.
Thats not true of natural down, which is pretty useless when it gets wet.
It tends to be more expensive than synthetic materials.
For the most part, Margeson relies on a syntheticPatagonia NanoPuff.
A rule you should live by: Always a rain jacket, no matter what, says Ray.
Often, the outer layer will be the most expensive thing on your list.
What people spend a lot of money on is the breathability of their outer layer, Margeson says.
Margesons favoriteand probably top of the industryisArcteryx(prices start at about $400,arcteryx.com).
Some quality brands with good options:REI Co-op,the North Face, andAdidas Outdoor.
Breathability will be key here, too, especially with the shoes.
Most hiking boot brandslike Keen, Merrell, Salomon, Danner, and Vasquewill have waterproof options.
Although accessories might not make or break your trip, they can add a lot of comfort.
Ray recommends wide-brimmed hats for extra sun protection.
Try: Eddie Bauer Womens Exploration UPF Wide Brim Hat ($24,eddiebauer.com).
Gloves are also a biggie.
Cold-weather gloves can be the difference between you having enough dexterity to open your tent or not.
More than anything, have a go at avoid temptation to bring a change of outfits.
For backpacking, I always think less is more, Ray says.
And once you go to lift your pack, youll definitely think the same.
