There are lots of things that could happen when you’re on the road or on a trail backpacking. Unfortunately, not all of them are good. It’s not uncommon for backpackers to encounter trouble as they go on their adventure. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have a scary encounter with the Blair Witch or a huge dude with a machete. While there are such dangers, particularly the machete-wielding mass murderer, there are other more realistic things that you should be worried about such as getting lost, running out of food and water, or running out of valuable space in your backpack. Fortunately, there is such a thing as backpacking hacks.
You need to think outside the box if you are faced with a predicament that seems to be unsolvable. Even if it’s something as simple as your matches getting wet, you still need to know various backpacking hacks that could help you go on with your adventure. And if things take a turn for the worse and your life is suddenly on the line, you’ll be glad to know some of these backpacking hacks. You’ll also be thankful for these hacks that make backpacking a worthwhile exploit.
Space Saving Backpacking Hacks
One of the most common problems of backpackers is having enough space for everything they want to bring. One way to save space is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. An even better method is to roll complete outfits together, excluding the shoes, of course. Click here to learn how to do the skivvy roll.
You don’t have to bring an extra bag for your footwear. Save space by packing your socks in your shoes. Next, wrap your shoes in a shower cap. You can now put your shoes in your bag.
DIY In-Flight Entertainment
You’ll be spending lots of time on a plane if you’re backpacking through the world. You won’t likely be able to afford or don’t want to spend money on first-class tickets. In some countries, there’s no such thing as first-class flights. Don’t expect to have privileges such as in-flight entertainment. That means you won’t get to watch films and TV shows on small screens at the back of the seats.
To stay entertained, place your phone or tablet inside a clear plastic and then stick the end under the tray table knob. Now you can enjoy your favorite show without needing to hold your gadget.
Treat Blisters
Aside from boarding planes, riding buses, and hitchhiking, you’ll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. This may take a toll on your feet. If you feel like a blister is developing, put duct tape on the affected area.
If you already have blisters, clean and disinfect the wound before covering it with duct tape. Here is how you can use duct tape on heel blisters.
Stay Dry and Buoyant
There’s always the possibility of rain. You may also come across a body of water and you have no other choice but to cross it to continue on with your journey. Other times, you’d be tempted to take a dip. In any case, you need your stuff to stay dry.
Keep all your important stuff such as phones, maps, journals, and matches in waterproof bags. You can pack them in a dry bag or dry sack. Using Ziploc bags is a cheap yet effective way to keep your valuables dry as long as you seal them properly. Line up your backpack with a bin bag, as well.
You also don’t want to accidentally drop your keys in the river or pool. Keep them buoyant by adding a wine cork to your keychain. For heavier items such as your underwater camera, a wine cork may not keep it afloat. Use a camera float strap instead.
Most clothes and accessories meant for the outdoors are waterproof. In case your stuff is not, you can use fabric waterproofing products.
Don’t Lose Your Way
Part of the thrill of backpacking is getting lost and finding interesting places that you would have otherwise missed. Still, you need to know how to get back to the place you’re staying. Keep a map handy. Know how to ask for directions in the local language. Have a copy or photo of contact numbers you can call in case you need assistance.
If you’re out backpacking in nature, getting lost is not an option. Always plan you’re route and do your research before hitting the trail. Don’t forget your compass and a map of the terrain. In case you do get lost, your best course of action is to head south. You can also follow a river until you reach civilization. If you’re hurt and unable to continue traveling, it’s better to stay still and wait for rescue. If you’re able, do what you can to be spotted easily by search and rescue teams.
Keep Your Memories
You will see lots of beautiful sights, meet some interesting people, and eat glorious and sometimes weird food during your backpacking journey. It may be too much for the human brain to remember everything clearly.
Take lots of photos of your trip. You’d be glad you did so when you’re done backpacking and at home trying to remember all the fun. Don’t depend on your camera phone for all your photos. Bring a small waterproof camera so you can keep snapping shots even if you’re underwater.
Speaking of camera phones, you can use this feature to remember important details or take photos of vital documents. Take photos of your booking references, the number of your hotel room, emergency contact numbers, and such.
Spice Up Your Life
When you’re traveling across the country, you’ll get to taste a lot of dishes. If you’re backpacking amongst nature, your menu is limited to what you brought along.
Put some oomph to any dish you make by packing different herbs and spices. You don’t have to bring whole bottles or packs of each. Use a pill box as your very own portable spice rack.
Buzz Off
Mosquitoes are some of the peskiest pests there are. They are especially troublesome when you’re outdoors. Keep mosquitoes at bay with bug repellents.
If you forgot to bring one, nature can help you out. Look for an elderberry bush and gather its leaves. Crush them and rub them all over your exposed body parts.
Go to The Gentleman Pirate to discover more hacks and tips you can use when you’re out enjoying the outdoors. If you are planning on backpacking across the United States, you must check vanabode.com out. Here, you will learn how you can live on only $20 each day while you’re traveling. It may sound impossible but, according to the couple behind the site, their strategies will help you save money while still enjoying backpacking thoroughly.
Just a disclaimer – We have partnered with these companies because we use their products and/or proudly trust and endorse them – so we do receive a commission if you make a purchase or sign up for services. Often, we are able to negotiate special discounts and/or bonuses, which we will pass on to you via our links. We often get short notice on sale items available for 24-48 hours as we will pass these savings onto you.
