If you're seeking to experience the outdoors the way it is meant to be experienced and to get some exercise, hiking may be for you. A lot of people use trekking as a way to visit a wide array of places without spending much money. There are lots of backpacking tours that will help you plan your vacation, otherwise you can go ahead and do it yourself.

The only disadvantage to relying entirely on a travel agency is that they generally do not have a lot of experience in regards to hiking. They concentrate more on the sights and less on the actual hike. In the following paragraphs I will attempt to fill the gap between what a travel adviser provides you with and what you need to know. I'll talk about things like backpacking backpacks and other gear you will need to have a successful trip. After reading this article you should have enough information to have a nice trip planned out.

First of all, you will want to make sure you have the right backpack. Without looking into backpacking backpacks, you may end up getting something that does not suit your needs at all.

Although all backpacks vary, they can all be classified into two different types. The first one is the external frame backpack and the second is the internal frame backpack. Although the external frames are heavier than the internal ones, they do tend to hold more. The advantage of the internal frame comes in the form of its light weight rather than its support or storage capabilities.

Determining where you will be traveling is the next most important thing for you to do. If you are going to do a wilderness hike, you may want to get a backpacking tent. Like backpacking backpacks, you will want to look for something that is lightweight and easy to use. Get something that can be quickly setup and taken down.

Other issues to consider are water storage containers as well as water purification devices. A water boiling tool could come in handy for killing parasites and bacteria. Another way to purify your drinking water would be to make use of iodine pills.

The outdoor backpacker may also find trekking sticks to be invaluable companions. Tough terrain becomes much easier when you have four points of contact with the ground, rather than just two. You'll also find them quite useful at taking some of the stress off of your legs during long hikes.