FashBlog.com

A backpacking trip is a fun fair weather excursion in which people of all ages can participate. If the backpacking trip is planned to last more than a day or two, you will need to bring a few changes of clothing and plan for your changes accordingly. Nothing is more dissatisfying than a backpacking trip that becomes uncomfortable due to the wrong type of clothing. When you plan your backpacking trip this summer or fall, use the following list as a guideline as to the types of clothing you should bring.

1. The most important word you will learn about backpacking clothing is the term "wicking." Wicking material, if you are not already familiar with it, is a material designed to "wick" moisture away from the body. This means moisture in the form of sweat, rain, falls into the creek, or spills. Wicking material is known for its ability to dry quickly. This comes in especially handy if you are caught in a sudden rainstorm or fall into a lake or creek. Simply change your shirt and pants, hang them on the back of your backpack, and they will dry in under an hour.

2. Use layers. For the cool days on your backpacking trip, you will want to bring clothing that will keep you cool, but nothing heavy, bulky or tight. Bring layers of loose fitting wicking fabrics such as fleece. Fleece dries quickly and keeps you warm while allowing the skin to breathe.

3. Avoid cotton. There is a mantra out on the Appalachian Trail that says, "Cotton kills." Rumor has it that seasoned hikers can spot a novice from a mile away because he will be wearing blue jeans. Blue jeans are some of the most comfortable clothing and one of the best inventions known to man - but not out on the hiking trail. When you go hiking and backpacking, leave your blue jeans at home along with your cotton t-shirts and cotton socks.

4. Bring the proper rain gear. Assuming you will not be backpacking in severely cold weather, your rain gear should be light and water proof. A thin gore-tex slicker is the best thing to have: one that can cover you, your head, and your backpack, but that is small enough to fit in the bottom of your pack once the sun comes back out.

5. Don't forget to pay special attention to the extremities. The most important part of a backpacker's wardrobe is his hiking boots. If your feet hurt, it's like having a flat tire and you won't get very far. Buy your hiking boots early and wear them extensively before your backpacking trip. They should be snug but not tight, supportive, and comfortable. The other important extremity besides your feet is your head. Take a hat on your backpacking trip to protect you from the sun, the rain, and the insects. Gloves are optional, but can be good for starting fires and climbing up rocks.

If you follow these suggestions and use common sense, your backpacking trip should be a great success!