Backpacking

Free Article: Backpacking

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Backpacking Intro

Backpacking is something I wish I had done more of when I was younger. I just loved walking, wherever I went I would often walk rather than take a bus or taxi. As a child our vacations were always camping holidays to Wales in the United Kingdom and we all enjoyed hiking along the mountain paths.

Backpacking is really a way of travel that encompasses all the aspects I had enjoyed, hiking & camping but it also includes elements of survival that could simply not be experienced with the family! Unfortunately I never managed to go backpacking in Australia, I really fancied the idea of going bushwalking in the outback of Australia. The idea of snakes and spiders put me off a little but there are some pretty basic safety measures that can be taken and good habits to learn before you contemplate such a backpacking trip. Unfortunately I spent far too much time thinking about it and I lost my mobility so backpacking is no longer an option for me. I still enjoy camping every now and again but I use other accommodation now rather than the bunkhouses & hostels (I do miss the hostel atmosphere though!).

Backpacking Gear

Backpacking and camping have always been popular and there has always been gear available to make the experience easier and more pleasurable. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in the amount of quality gear that enhances the option of backpacking far greater than was previously possible.

Digital cameras for backpacking are such a brilliant tool. It really does add to the enjoyment. I now live in the Western Isles of Scotland and it is a popular destination for backpackers. I have noticed an increase in the number of backpackers taking the laptops with them. A laptop, together with a digital camera, is, actually, a pretty important piece of backpacking gear. Think about it, there are many advantages. There is no longer the need to send postcards to family and friends! Just email them instead and include a photograph or even a video as most compact digital cameras include the facility to record videos. You can show your parents exactly how safe you are and how well you are looking after yourself ;-)

The mobile phone for backpacking is also an incredible tool much appreciated by backpackers. Most have a camera so you can simply send an SMS with a photo. There are also the obvious backpacking safety benefits of having a mobile cellular phone with you at all times.

Lightweight backpacking gear will always be essential but these days there is so much good quality kit available the choices can be difficult. I would much rather have too much to choose from than too little. When I was a child you were luck to find two different pans to cook with while camping and the stoves were pretty useless too.

If you are planning a backpacking trip please take your time in putting together your checklist and consider the above but most of all I hope you enjoy yourself. Please take care and consider carefully your personal safety at all times - and consider others too!

I hope you find the articles below useful and informative. Enjoy your trip.

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