Even if you have a lifestyle that involves too much work, too much school or both, you need a break from time to time. Sometimes it’s best to leave the kids at home for the weekend and head out into the wilderness!
One of the best ways to get away from the everyday life that can sometimes consume you is by taking a trip to the backcountry. With a little time away from the daily grind, you can find yourself taking a world of pressure off your shoulders.
So, how do you go about getting some time out in the back country and doing it without hurting yourself, especially if you’ve never ventured out before?
First and foremost, having the right equipment when you head outside your comfort zone is important. By having the proper backpacks, tents & more, you can increase the odds that you will have an enjoyable and memorable time.
Before you head out for such a trip, consider the following questions:
* How long will I be gone for?
* Do I have all the right equipment for the trip?
* Is my equipment up to date and ready to go?
* If going by myself, did I notify someone of where I’ll be in the event I run into trouble?
* Is the area I or we will be staying in safe when it comes to wildlife etc?
Once you have answers to these questions, you are set to go.
As for your equipment, what exactly are you planning to take with you on the trip?
The answer to that of course revolves around how long you plan to be in the backcountry, what activities you plan to engage in, and whether or not you will be by yourself or traveling with others.
Now before worrying that you will end up with an experience like Aron Ralston did in the 2010 movie 127 Hours, the majority of people who go hiking, camping, cycling etc. out in the backcountry normally return home with little or no troubles.
Among some of the items you may end up taking with you on your venture includes a backpacks, water bottles, a sleeping bag, cookware, a compass or GPS unit, cell phone and extra clothing. The reason for the last item is that it can oftentimes be colder when you get out into the country, even in the summertime when the sun goes down.
Be Prepared for Any Conditions
Of utmost importance, make sure all your gear and other items are properly checked out before you head out to the backcountry. Look for any wear or tear on your equipment, therefore lessening the chances that it will not properly serve you.
Lastly, pick a time or times of the year for your backcountry visits when the weather is most likely to work in your favor.
It is always best to check the weather right before your trip a second time just to see if conditions have changed, plus take extra clothing, water and food supplies with you in the event you are temporarily stuck outside in unfavorable weather conditions.
So, are you ready to leave the daily grind behind for a day or two and hit the backcountry?
Photo credit: trails.com
