Are You Overpacking for Your Next Hike?

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Are You Overpacking for Your Next Hike? Here’s Why Less is More

It’s easy to fall into the trap of overpacking for a hike, especially if you're new to the trail or feeling anxious about the unexpected - I am guilty of this myself. But carrying too much weight can turn an otherwise enjoyable experience into a gruelling, uncomfortable slog. If you’re guilty of packing “just in case” items, it’s time to rethink your strategy.

Here’s why less is more when it comes to packing for your next hike:

1. Lighten the Load for More Comfort

The heavier your pack, the more strain you’ll put on your body. Overpacking can lead to sore hips, back pain, and tired legs, which can quickly take the joy out of your hike. By packing only the essentials, you’ll significantly reduce your load and make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Pro Tip: Before your trip, lay out all the items you plan to bring and ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” Chances are, you can leave behind a few non-essential items without sacrificing comfort or safety. I ask this question to myself about every item I pack.

2. Pack Your Fears—But Wisely

A common reason for overpacking is "packing your fears"—bringing too much gear for situations you’re worried MIGHT happen. Extra food, multiple jackets, and backup equipment can add unnecessary weight to your pack. While it’s important to be prepared, packing smart means focusing on multipurpose items and leaving unnecessary duplicates at home.

3. Keep Your Energy Levels High

Carrying too much weight saps your energy, especially on long or steep trails. By the time you reach the halfway point, you might find yourself fatigued or even dehydrated from the extra effort. A lighter pack not only conserves energy but also allows you to enjoy the hike without constantly worrying about exhaustion.

Pro Tip: Weigh your pack before heading out. For multi-day hikes, aim to keep it around a maximum of 15-20% of your body weight. On shorter day hikes, it should be even lighter.

4. Less Gear = More Flexibility

A lighter pack gives you more flexibility. You’ll be able to cover more ground, navigate tricky terrain more easily, and adjust your pace without feeling bogged down. You’ll also be quicker in making camp or adjusting your route if weather conditions change.

Pro Tip: Focus on packing only the essentials. Use a checklist to make sure you’ve covered your bases without overdoing it. A well-thought-out gear list helps ensure you’re prepared without going overboard. If you need a basic checklist you can download one here.

5. Safety Isn’t About Packing More—It’s About Packing Smart

Overpacking can create a false sense of security. The reality is that having more gear won’t necessarily make you safer—it could just slow you down. Focus on the essentials: proper clothing, enough food and water, a reliable shelter, and a good navigation system. These are the critical items that will keep you safe, no matter how long or short the hike.

Final Thoughts

Overpacking is a common mistake, but once you realize that less is more, your hikes will become far more enjoyable and efficient. By packing smart, focusing on versatile gear, and sticking to the essentials, you’ll lighten your load and improve your overall experience on the trail. So before you head out, ask yourself: Do I really need everything in this pack? If the answer is no, leave it behind.

THAT’S ALL FOR THIS WEEK

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Until next week.

Stay well,

Mowser

Helping hiking enthusiasts explore the great outdoors

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