They say even a straw is heavy for a long journey, and in a long hike you need to manage the weight of your backpack.

Going on an adventurous hike, you always wish to carry every important thing in your backpack. But carrying too much can make it heavy and might stop you from completing your journey the way you expected. Packing light is an admired skill that a person learns with experience, time, and of course, by making a lot of mistakes.

Who knew that a little research and planning before you head towards your destination could help you become an ultralight backpacker? Yes, there are a few simple tips that can help you carry that heavy load as if it’s a cakewalk.

Continue reading this useful piece of knowledge and see how.

Advance Planning is the First Step

There are some crucial points you need to consider before making it for the journey. Check the weight of your backpack, see what gears you’re going to carry and how much they weigh, what is the extent of the trip, the weather conditions and also, the terrain. This little planning and research will help you determine the difference between your wants and needs. Try to keep your wants at home and go with your needs.

Right Size of the Backpack

After all the planning, your next step is to select the right size of backpack that can carry your gear and fit your body size. People generally start calculating the ratio of the backpack’s weight to body size and find the right choice. But it is good to go to your nearby gear shop and ask the expert to choose the right fit for you. Remember, a pack that fits properly can make your journey an absolute breeze when it is about carrying heavy loads.

 

Next is How You Distribute the Weight

After you decide what to carry and if you realise that it is going to be heavy, no matter what, then keep your focus on “How to Pack it”. Hikers and backpackers ensure that all the heavy items are kept in the middle of their pack, so the weight is distributed evenly. Conversely, if you’re travelling with your toddler, you’re left with not many options on how to distribute the weight on your back.

Route Choice Also Matters

Spend some quality time deciding the route to your destination that can offer you a gentle altitude, after all, you’re going to work hard for that final view. Look closely around your surroundings to avoid areas that are challenging to walk on. One should also be aware of their physical limitations and how the weight of your backpack can affect you or how much energy you’re going to spend when on the hike. To get used to with heavy backpacking trips, you can first, go on a few short day trips and get a little experience. Also, you can take some extra days for your trip, so you enjoy the venture at your pace.

Use Your Gear Considerately

Last but not the least, you need to be extra careful while you put the backpack on and take it off. You can crutch the bag up on a stump or a log, asking for help can also be considered, and when you keep the pack on, just squat down, which helps prevent straining your back. If you’re taking a trekking pole along, make use of the straps properly and follow the right poling technique. Walking poles can keep your body stable when walking through a difficult path.

So, these were a few helpful ways you can try to carry that heavy bag with great ease. Happy Hiking!