Backpacking for beginners can seem tough. If you’ve never been backpacking before, you may be a bit cautious. Disappearing into the woods for a few hours or days can be a bit daunting, with the unknown elements, terrain and wildlife.

Dress Accordingly
You never know when a sunny day is going to turn foul or those clouds are going to give way to some hot sunshine. When backpacking, it’s best to be prepared for any type of weather. Dress in layers and make sure you have some extra clothes and a waterproof jacket in your bag.

You should also wear hiking boots. Many new backpackers make the mistake of wearing any old running sneaker when they go backpacking. While sneakers are great for many activities, their lack of ankle support and coverage can put you at risk for an injury or scratched-up legs. Socks should be made of wool or synthetic material. Avoid cotton socks, which don’t dry quickly after getting wet.

Be Prepared
Being prepared means having gear for any situation, as well as being physically able to complete your trip. Make sure you’re in shape and can walk the distance you’ll be hiking. If necessary, check with your doctor before your backpacking trip. If you’ll be hiking a long distance with a heavy pack, you may want to practice wearing it for shorter periods of time beforehand, to allow your body to get used to it.

You’ll need to have enough food and water for your backpacking trip. Bring along an extra meal or more, depending on the length of your trip. Always have backup water. You may opt to bring a grill to cook your food on, depending on how long you’ll have to hike to your campsite. Pack some plastic bags for storage, as well as trash. At night, before going to sleep, tie up any food and trash you have and hang them from a tree away from where you’re sleeping. This should keep bears at bay.

Things you should always have in your backpack include a pair of sunglasses or a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, a first aid kit, pocket knife and toilet paper. Also bring a book of matches and a fire starter so that you’ll be able to cook or keep warm.

Buy a backpack that will accommodate your needs, unless you’ll just be taking a several hour hike. In that case, you can get away with a book bag.

Common Sense
Common sense is perhaps the most important thing you can bring on a backpacking trip. Be smart when packing and making decisions. Don’t knowingly put yourself in a dangerous situation. Always make sure somebody knows where you’ll be and when you’re expected back.