Written by Ground Up Adventures
April 30, 2024
Summer is almost here, and for us backpacking enthusiasts, it’s the perfect time to start prepping for those glorious, life-filled trails. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a lengthy excursion, having a well-prepared backpack can make all the difference in your adventure. Here’s your comprehensive guide to getting your backpack ready for summer, ensuring you have a smooth, enjoyable experience in the great outdoors.
Tips for Prepping Your Backpack for Summer
CLEAN & INSPECT BACKPACK
Before anything else, give your backpack a good cleaning. This not only maintains its condition, but also allows you to make a mental note of any wear and tear from previous trips. Over time, dirt and grime will actually wear away any treatment like DWR on your backpack, and will degrade the pack more quickly than if it was cleaned up and taken care of. Here’s a video explaining how to effectively clean your backpack, which covers everything from washing to drying, ensuring your pack is fresh and ready for the season!
Wearing: Osprey Ariel Pack, Adidas Terrex Hiking Shoes
Watch Here:
Products I Use to Clean My Backpack:
GEAR UP
Gather all your camping and hiking equipment early. Clean AND test everything from stoves to sleeping bags before you set off on the trail. You want to make sure everything functions correctly so you don’t face any surprises when you’re far from home, because no one likes those mishaps, and testing your gear helps keep you safe.
CHECK YOUR TECH
Test all of your devices and electronics before you leave. Ensure your GPS, headlamp, and any other gadgets have fresh batteries or are fully charged. Also, this is a good time to update any apps or maps you plan to use on the trail.
TREAT YOUR GEAR
Since you’ve cleaned your gear, its a good time to take a look if it needs to be treated. Re-waterproof your boots, rain jacket, and tent if necessary. You can test the waterproof-ness of an item by splashing some water on it and seeing if it beads up on the surface of the garment, or absorbs. If it absorbs, it’s time to treat your gear. Summer showers can be sudden, and there’s nothing worse than getting soaked because your gear wasn’t prepped for water resistance.
Products I Use to Waterproof my Gear:
REPAIR OR REPLACE
Inspect all your gear for any signs of damage or wear. Repair items like torn backpack straps, or replace them if they’re beyond repair. Make sure to look into the company’s warranty as many brands have repair departments that you can send your gear into and they will repair it for you. Some will even replace it if they can’t repair it themselves! Also check out local gear repair shops. It’s always essential to address these issues before they become a problem on the trail.
For example, once my boot sole completely fell apart on a trip and I didn’t have duct tape…all I had was paracord. Needless to say that was an uncomfortable hike down, and could have been avoided if I had dealt with the issue prior to my trip.
RESTOCK YOUR FIRST AID KIT
You know what they say, safety first! Check your first aid kit and replenish any items that have been used or expired. Essentials include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and allergy medications. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under when you’re miles away from help, but remember there is a balance to this. You don’t need to carry a first aid kit that weighs two pounds.
STOCK UP ON THE ESSENTIALS
Sunscreen and bug spray are must-haves for summer backpacking. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays and keep those pesky insects at bay. Also, stock up on food and fuel supplies to last throughout your trip. It’s crucial to have enough energy to enjoy those long summer days outdoors. If you’re traveling in bear country, don’t forget to pull that can of bear spray out!
Use code GUA15 for 15% off!
WATER FILTER MAINTENANCE
If you haven’t used your water filter and bladder since last season, it’s time to back-flush the filter and give the water bladder a thorough clean—trust me, you don’t want to start your trip with a contaminated water supply, and no one likes nasty tasting water. Remember to clean and dry your water reservoir after each use.
PREPARE FOR THE WEATHER
Depending on where you’re at, summer weather can be unpredictable, so include a lightweight rain jacket or poncho in your pack. This won’t take much space and will save you from unexpected downpours, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
BACKPACKING GEAR CHECKLIST
To make sure you haven’t missed anything, I’ve included a backpacking gear checklist and guide below that you can download and use while preparing for your trip. This list will make it easy to keep track of all your items and give you peace of mind that you’re fully equipped for your summer adventure.
Preparing your backpack for summer adventures is more than just packing; it’s about ensuring safety, comfort, and readiness for whatever the trail throws your way. By following these steps—cleaning your gear, restocking your first aid kit, preparing for unexpected weather, and ensuring all your equipment is in top-notch condition—you set the stage for a stress-free, enjoyable outdoor experience. Don’t forget to download the backpacking gear checklist linked above to help you keep track of everything you need. So, clean up that backpack, gather your gear, and get ready to embrace the beauty of summer backpacking. Happy trails!
Looking to take it a step further and feel confident and prepared on your next backpacking adventure? Let’s go on a hike together and you can learn everything you need to know to feel self-reliant and capable in the outdoors, year round.
*Please note that some links above are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission on any purchase you make – at no additional cost to you. If you use any of these links, thank you for your support in advance!
Photos: 1: Jen Suen Photo
Hi there! I’m Shelby, a
Colorado hiking and backpacking guide!
I’m here to inspire you to climb your mountain from the ground UP.
I’m an avid hiker and backpacker, and also love camping, fishing, and anything else I can do outdoors, even if it means going alone! I believe nature is the best teacher of all, and I find joy sharing this knowledge so you can feel empowered on your own adventures!
Enjoying your read? Learn more about the great outdoors and Ground Up Adventures by following along on my social media channels!
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