Start with the trip you can realistically do
Most planning mistakes come from picking a route that is too ambitious for the group, the season or the gear on hand. A good plan starts by being honest about three things: how much time you have, how fit and experienced everyone is, and what conditions you are willing to deal with.
If this is your first overnight, a short route with an easy first day is a forgiving way to learn. Our list of best beginner backpacking trips is a good place to browse for ideas.
Choose a destination and trip length
Decide on trip length first, because it narrows everything else.
- One night or a weekend: short distances, close to home. See weekend backpacking trips.
- Three days: enough for a loop with a real sense of travel. See best 3-day backpacking trips.
- Five days: room for point-to-point routes and a bad-weather buffer. See 5-day backpacking trips.
- A week or more: requires more food planning and resupply thinking. See week-long backpacking trips.
Guidebooks, land-agency websites, ranger offices and mapping apps such as AllTrails or Gaia GPS are all useful for finding candidates. Recent trip reports help confirm what conditions are like right now.
Map your route
A common approach is to plan backward from camp: decide where you want to sleep, then check how far it is from the trailhead and where you can get water along the way.
For each day, look at:
- Distance and elevation gain. Elevation often matters more than mileage. Many hikers plan a modest daily distance, particularly on a first trip, and add miles only after they know their own pace. Your own pace on similar terrain with a loaded pack is a better guide than any rule of thumb.
- Water. Note reliable sources and the longest stretch between them. Seasonal creeks may be dry late in the year.
- Camping options. Some areas require designated sites; others allow dispersed camping with rules about distance from water and trails.
- Bailout points. Identify trails or roads where you could exit early.
Download offline maps before you leave, since cell service is often unavailable. Carry a paper map and know how to use it in case a phone fails.
Permits, regulations and seasonal closures
Many popular areas require overnight permits, and some are limited by quota or lottery well in advance. Others require a parking pass or a bear canister, or have campfire restrictions. Rules differ by park, forest and season, so check the managing agency’s current page and, if possible, call the ranger station. Also check for closures from wildfire, flooding or snow.
Check weather and conditions
Look at the forecast for the specific area and elevation, not only the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly. Ask about snow, stream-crossing levels, bugs and fire danger, and decide in advance what conditions would make you change plans or turn back.
Gear, food and water
Your gear list scales with the trip, but the core systems are the same:
- Shelter and sleep system suited to expected nighttime temperatures
- Backpack that fits you and carries your load comfortably
- Layered clothing, including rain protection, and good footwear
- Water treatment and enough capacity to cover dry stretches
- Stove, fuel and food
- Navigation, headlamp, first-aid kit and a way to signal for help
Food is commonly planned by the day, and calorie needs vary a lot between people and with effort and weather. Choose foods you already know you like and that are easy to prepare. Use a bear canister or hang, depending on local requirements.
A heavier pack makes everything harder, so weigh your gear at home. If weight is a concern, our ultralight backpacking guide explains how to trim it. Many beginners start with borrowed or rented equipment and upgrade later.
What a longer trip changes
Planning a 7-day trip is the same process with more at stake. You carry more food at the start, so the first days are heavier. You may need a resupply point or a food cache if the route is long. Plan a buffer day if you can, and carry a little extra repair and first-aid capacity. Test your boots and pack on shorter trips first, since small problems like blisters get bigger over time. For route ideas, see week-long backpacking trips.
How much does a backpacking trip cost
The cost of an individual trip is often low: permit fees where required, fuel to the trailhead, food, and any shuttle. The larger expense is gear. Costs vary widely by region and by whether you buy new, used, or rent, so it is worth pricing out your specific plan rather than relying on a general number.
Safety basics
- Leave your route, dates, vehicle description and expected return time with someone you trust, and tell them when to contact authorities.
- Consider a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon if you will be out of cell range.
- Learn the basics of water treatment, food storage and wildlife in the area.
- Be willing to turn around.
This is general guidance; check current local advice and consider taking a wilderness first-aid course.
A simple planning checklist
- Pick a trip length and a realistic daily distance.
- Choose a route and read recent reports.
- Confirm permits, parking and rules.
- Check the forecast and conditions.
- Share your itinerary.
- Pack, weigh and test your gear.
- Plan food, water and bailout options.
- Do a final check the day before.
FAQ
How many miles can I backpack in a day? It depends on terrain, pack weight, fitness and daylight. Many beginners aim for a modest distance on a first trip, often somewhere around 5 to 10 miles on moderate terrain, and increase from there. Steep climbing or rough ground slows most people considerably.
How do I start backpacking? Begin with a short overnight on a well-marked trail close to home, borrow or rent gear, and go with someone experienced if you can. Try one of our beginner trips.
What should I pack for a 7-day trip? The same core systems as a short trip, plus more food and fuel, a bit more repair and first-aid supplies, and possibly extra clothing. Avoid adding many extras; weight adds up.