Outdoor Blog
How to Cook Biscuits While Camping

At Outdoor Command, we love camping! This much is obvious. However, you might not know that we also love good food, and especially, camping with good food. A traditional camping menu consisting of hot dogs, burgers, and s’mores can get a little monotonous, so it’s a good idea to branch out if you take regular camping trips.
One food which you might not have considered for camping is biscuits. Most of us eat them fairly regularly at home, but they can make an excellent addition to any camping breakfast or dinner as well.
In this article, we will discuss several different ways of how to cook biscuits while camping, including a delicious recipe for biscuits and gravy. Whether you prefer them with butter and honey or drowning in gravy, biscuits are a staple food that you’ll be glad to have in your backcountry cuisine repertoire.
Some of these recipes call for campfires, some for camp stoves, and some, for something called a dutch oven. Every recipe included here uses either a cast-iron skillet or a dutch oven for baking the biscuits, so first we’ll explain what they are.

A Dutch oven is a thick-walled cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid, typically made of seasoned cast iron and sometimes aluminum.
What is a dutch oven?
Many of these recipes feature a dutch oven, and it’s considered by many campers the best way to get flaky and delicious biscuits while camping- but what is it? A dutch oven is a heavy cooking pot with a tightly fitting lid. It can be used on the stovetop or in the oven, and usually made of cast iron.
They need to be seasoned before use for cooking, and just like any other cast iron cookware, Dutch ovens can withstand extremely high heat. Dutch ovens can even be used for deep frying, but more commonly they’re used for soups and stews and are excellent for any slow-cooking.
For camping, dutch ovens make a great alternative to a regular oven because of the way they are designed to hold in heat. However, dutch ovens are notoriously heavy, so for lightweight backpackers, unfortunately, they would not be an option. On the other hand, if you can stand the weight, they make an excellent addition to your camping gear, and amongst the many things you can cook in them are some tasty camping biscuits.
Canned biscuits on a camping stove
There are plenty of different methods you can employ to cook up some scrumptious biscuits at the campground- this one uses a camp stove and canned biscuits. Using canned biscuits will help cut down on prep time, as well as reducing the washing up afterward.
However, any eco-friendly campers out there might want to consider that this produces more unnecessary waste, and canned biscuits also contain chemical additives, so if you’re looking for a more natural approach, we’ve included a recipe for making camping biscuits from scratch as well.
Preheat your dutch oven or a covered skillet over medium heat on your camping stove. Keep the lid on the pot, and bring the temperature up to 350 degrees. In order to test the temperature without a thermometer, hold your hand above the pot, about six to eight inches away.
If you’re able to hold your hand there for more than eight seconds, the temperature is below 350 degrees and the pot it not ready yet. If you can hold your hand above the pot for around 5 seconds before removing it, the temperature is between 350 and 400 degrees, and you’re ready to start cooking up some biscuits.
Next, remove the lid of your dutch oven or skillet- be careful to use a holder or oven glove so you don’t hurt yourself. Grease the inside of the pan or pot liberally, using some cooking spray or another cooking oil. You could also use baking parchment.
Place your biscuits in one layer into the pan, with the sides touching, and replace the lid. You can now reduce your camping stove to low heat, and let your delicious biscuits bake for 13 to 17 minutes. Keep checking the temperature using the method we outlined before- holding your hand above your dutch oven or skillet.
Make sure the temperature doesn’t exceed 350 degrees because nobody wants burnt biscuits. Then your biscuits are a warm and golden brown, they’re ready. Time to dig in!

The great thing about biscuits is that you only need a few essential ingredients to make them and they’re still delicious.
Canned biscuits over the campfire
If you don’t use a camping stove, or would just prefer to use the old fashioned method, you can also cook biscuits over the campfire. First, we would recommend cleaning out the fire ring at your campsite. It’s a worthwhile task to get rid of any extra ash and debris before you start any campfire cooking.
This will help your fire function better and also lessen the likelihood of you ending up with ash in your biscuits (not so tasty). If you need to dispose of leftover ash from your fire ring, firstly ensure that it’s completely cool. Then scoop up the ash into a trash bag and put it in the municipal waste at your campground. When primitive camping, the best way to dispose of ash is to scatter it as widely as possible, keep in mind that you’re trying to decrease the visual impact.
Prepare your charcoal or other fuel for a 350-degree fire. Spray your cooking oil inside the dutch oven while it’s still cold, coating all the inside with an even layer of grease, and lay out your biscuits within. Next, place the lid on top, and put the dutch oven containing your biscuits on top of the charcoal.
For this next step, you’ll need some decent campfire tongs, to lift up some pieces of hot charcoal and place them on top of the lid of your dutch oven. This will provide heat from all directions, and help your biscuits to cook evenly. Set your timer to 7 minutes, half the total cooking time, and have a cup of tea while you wait.
After 7 minutes, carefully, using the proper tools and heat protection, rotate the entire pot 90 degrees, or a quarter of a circle. Then, without lifting the lid, spin it 90 degrees (or a quarter circle) in the opposite direction. This will spread out the heat and help prevent hot spots within your oven, helping your backcountry biscuits to cook evenly and prevent them from burning.
After another 7 minutes, your biscuits should be cooked, golden brown, and ready to eat. Carefully remove the lid of the oven and make sure to place it somewhere safe- it will still be incredibly hot. Use a long spatula to get your biscuits out of the dutch oven.
Wait for the oven and lid to cool completely, you can leave them away from the heat inside the fire ring ideally, just make sure you don’t leave it out in the rain. To store your dutch oven, we recommend keeping a few paper towels inside, with some hanging between the lid and the bottom. This will help soak up any moisture and keep your oven fresh.

Making biscuits from scratch may not be as easy as making them from the can but you’ll notice the difference in taste.
Dutch oven campfire biscuits from scratch
Making biscuits from scratch can seem a little intimidating, especially if you’re not at home in your kitchen. You may think making biscuits from scratch while on a camping trip isn’t worth it, but this biscuit recipe is so easy and so delicious, there’s really nothing like fresh biscuits on chilly mornings at the campsite. There’s also the benefit of knowing exactly what’s going into your food, without any hidden chemicals and preservatives, as well as the satisfaction you’ll enjoy from cooking your breakfast from scratch.
Ingredients (makes 7 large biscuits):
- 1 3/4 cup white flour (plus a little extra to flour your work surface)
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp of baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp of baking soda
- 1 stick (or 1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk (or substitute milk with lemon juice or vinegar)
You will need:
- 24 pieces of charcoal (and a way to light them)
- 4 quart 10-inch dutch oven
- small cup, tin can, or biscuit cutter
- cutting board or alternative flat surface for rolling and cutting the biscuits
- mixing bowl
- lid lifter/pot holder
- hot pads
- tongs for moving the charcoal
- parchment paper (or extra butter for greasing)
- zip lock plastic bags (or another container for ingredients)
Before you set off to your campsite, you can mix together most of the ingredients at home. This way, you’ll have minimal preparation to do on your trip. Firstly combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Take your stick of unsalted butter and cut it up into smaller pieces. Add the chopped butter into the dry ingredients, and use a fork or pastry cutter to mash the dry ingredients and butter together. Eventually, the butter should be in tiny pieces, like crumbs.
This method will ensure your biscuits are light and fluffy, as the butter will melt into little pockets as you bake. Once the mix is prepared, transfer it into a sealed plastic bag and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to go on your camping trip, transport the mixture in a camping cooler, like a Yeti Cooler.
Once you reach the campsite, and you’re ready to bake some tasty biscuits, the first step is to prepare your campfire. Get your charcoal briquettes heating up, you’ll need 24 in total. Put them in a heap and light them, so they can begin to warm up. You want these charcoal briquettes to be hot before you start using them.
Mix together your buttermilk (or substitute) with your pre-prepared dry ingredients. Once the mixture is thoroughly combined, make a rough circle with your dough on your cutting board or other work surface.
Sprinkle on a little extra flour if your biscuit dough seems too sticky, and aim to create a rough circle about 1 1/2 to 2 inches thick. Grab your cup or chosen biscuit cutter and cut out as many biscuits as you can. Then, reform the circle, and repeat until you’re out of dough.
Next, you’ll need to either grease or paper your dutch oven. We recommend using parchment paper as it does a great job saving on washing up. Place the biscuits in a single layer inside the pot- if there’s any extra, save them for another round, otherwise, you could end up with underbaked and gluey biscuits.
Now it’s time to bake your biscuits. Place the lid on your dutch oven and take it to your fire circle or cooking area. Place six briquettes beneath the oven, and another 18 on top of the lid. Depending on how much you heated your coals, and what the weather conditions are, this recipe could take 30-45 minutes to cook. To make sure you get that perfect golden brown color, check the biscuits every 20 minutes, lifting the lid safely using proper heat protection.
Carefully remove the biscuits from the oven, and they’re ready! This recipe produces deliciously flaky biscuits. For breakfast, slather on some butter, honey or jam while they’re still hot, and enjoy.

Biscuits come in all shapes and sizes and that makes us a little tingly and happy on the inside.
Gourmet biscuits and gravy while camping
You can’t talk about biscuits without talking about biscuits and gravy. This recipe makes a delicious breakfast for four using a pre-made biscuit mix, but you can easily make biscuits from scratch using the recipe above!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup of flour
- Salt, thyme, onion powder and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups of milk
- Oil
- 2 packages of biscuits
You will need:
- 1 large dutch oven or two small dutch ovens stacked
- Campfire grate
- 12 inch cast iron skillet
Temperature regulation is the most important element in cooking with a dutch oven. In order to bake evenly, you need a balance of heat from the top and from the bottom. To achieve this you can use hot briquettes or coals from the fire, either way, you need to place more on top than underneath, as the coals on the bottom of the pan are much closer to the biscuits inside.
Grease the inside of your dutch oven to prevent the biscuits from sticking. Arrange them inside in a single layer, so that the biscuits barely touch. They will rise and expand as they bake, so try to allow a little extra room for this. Put the lid on top of the oven, and set it on about half of your hot coals. Then, place the other half of the coals on top of the oven. After about ten minutes, check to see how your biscuits are coming along. You may need to change around some coals if you see that they’re cooking unevenly.
While your biscuits are baking, it’s time for a little campfire cooking. It’s a good idea to have your campfire burning already, so you have a hot bed of coals to get started with. Once it’s ready, put your skillet on the campfire grate above your fire, and brown the sausage inside. You may need to use a little oil to prevent sticking.
Make sure your sausage is cooked through, stirring it around plenty, and then add in your flour. Mix this around to coat the sausage in flour and cook for a few minutes. Now it’s time to season your mixture, with salt and pepper, onion powder, thyme, or whatever you feel like.
All that’s left to add now before your delicious breakfast is ready is the milk. Pour in about 4 cups of any type of milk, just enough to cover the top of the sausage. Stir the mixture together well, making sure to scrape up any sausage stuck to the bottom of your skillet.
You’ll need to make sure your campfire is hot enough that the milk comes to a boil- without this, the gravy won’t thicken. Cook the mixture until it’s thick enough to coat your spatula without sliding off.
Allow your gravy to boil for a minute or two, stirring frequently, and then remove your skillet from the heat. Taste your gravy and adjust any seasonings as necessary.
To serve your delicious backcountry breakfast, take two cooked biscuits and cut them in half. Then, generously spoon on as much gravy as you desire, and enjoy while it’s still warm!

At the end of the day, great biscuits make a happy camper.
Final Verdict:
Whether you decide to cook dutch oven biscuits while camping or make use of that hefty cast-iron skillet you got for Christmas, there’s no doubt that cooking biscuits while camping is a delicious and worthwhile endeavor. You can use pre-packaged canned biscuits, or create your own biscuits from scratch. You can bake them in a fire pit, a dutch oven, or simply on a camp stove. Whichever way you decide to bake them, there’s no denying these backcountry recipes are a hearty and delicious way to start the day.
With so many ways to bake, there’s no excuse not to give these a go on your next adventure. However, if biscuits and gravy aren’t for you, why not try some Vegan Camping Recipes? It’s not an adventure vacation until you try something new.
Bonus tip: Check out this video for some dutch oven camping cooking tips!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSREmqZT2xM
Outdoor Blog
How to Pack for a Day Hike

Hiking is an exciting adventure for the whole family, and it’s important to be prepared. Taking a day hike with your kids can be fun and rewarding, but you need to make sure that you have everything you need. Packing for a day hike doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful; all it takes is careful planning and preparation.
In this article, we will provide tips on how to pack for a successful day hiking trip with your family. With these simple steps in mind, you can ensure that your next day hike is safe yet enjoyable!
Choose the Right Gear for Your Day Hike
The most important part of packing for a day hike is selecting the right gear. Make sure you have proper footwear with good traction; sturdy, supportive hiking boots or shoes work best. You’ll also need rain gear in case it rains and layers to keep you warm on cool days. A small day pack or backpack is necessary, as well as a sturdy walking stick or trekking poles for extra stability on rough terrain. Other important items include a map and compass, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and bug spray.
Plan Ahead and Pack Light
Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing for your day hike. Make a list of all the items you need to bring and check it off as you go. This will help you stay organized and make sure that you don’t forget anything. It’s also important to pack light; only bring essentials that are absolutely necessary for the trip. If possible, divide up gear among family members to lighten the load.
Prepare Clothing for All Weather Conditions
The weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you bring clothing that’s appropriate for all conditions. Layering is key; wear lightweight, breathable fabrics such as wool and synthetic materials that wick away moisture. Pack a waterproof jacket or poncho, and bring extra socks in case your feet get wet. Also, bring a hat, gloves, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun’s rays.
Bring Necessary Supplies like Water, Food, First Aid Kit, etc.
You should also bring necessary supplies like water, food, and a first aid kit with bandages and medications. Pack enough supplies for everyone so everyone can stay hydrated and energized throughout the hike. If you’re bringing snacks, opt for nutritious options like nuts, fruits, and nut butter sandwiches.
Include Extras Like Sunscreen and Bug Spray
You never know when you might need them, so it’s important to include extras like sunscreen and bug spray in your daypack. Sunscreen should be applied every two hours to protect your skin from sunburn and other damage. Bug spray can also help ward off pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats.
Tips for Packing with Kids
Hiking with children can be a great way to bond as a family, but it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable and safe. Comfort items like stuffed animals, blankets, or books can help them relax and stay entertained during the hike. Pack plenty of snacks that are high in energy; trail mix, fruit bars, and granola bars are a great option. Games & activities can also be fun for younger kids; think about bringing small toys and cards to keep them occupied.
Don’t Forget Important Documents & Identification Cards
Make sure you bring any important documents or identification cards with you on your day hike. This includes driver’s license, passports, health insurance cards, and any other relevant paperwork you might need. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your itinerary and contact information for the people you’ll be hiking with.
Final Checklist Before You Leave on Your Day Hike
Once you’ve packed all the necessary items, it’s important to do a final checklist before leaving on your day hike. Make sure everyone in your party has the appropriate supplies and that you know where to find any extra items you might need. It’s also a good idea to notify someone of your plans; let them know where you’re going, when you plan to leave, and when you plan to return.
Conclusion
Day hikes are an excellent way to get outdoors and experience the beauty of nature. With a little preparation, you can ensure your day hike is safe and enjoyable for everyone in your party. By following the tips outlined above, you can be sure that you’re adequately prepared for whatever comes your way. So grab your gear, get outside, and enjoy the adventure!
FAQs
Q: What type of clothing should I bring for a day hike?
A: It’s important to prepare for all weather conditions; wear lightweight, breathable fabrics such as wool and synthetic materials that wick away moisture. Pack a waterproof jacket or poncho, and bring extra socks in case your feet get wet. Also, don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun’s rays.
Q: What supplies do I need to bring on a day hike?
A: You should bring necessary supplies like water, food, and a first aid kit with bandages and medications. If possible, divide up gear among family members to lighten the load. It’s also important to pack extras like sunscreen and bug spray, as well as any necessary documents or identification cards.
Q: What tips do you have for hiking with kids?
A: In order to make sure your children are comfortable and safe on the hike, it’s important to bring comfort items like stuffed animals, blankets, or books. Pack plenty of healthy snacks that are high in energy; trail mix, fruit bars, and granola bars are a great option. Games & activities can also help keep them entertained; think about bringing small toys and cards with you on the trip.
Q: What should I do before leaving on my day hike?
A: Before leaving on your day hike, make sure to do a final checklist and ensure that everyone in the party has the appropriate supplies. It’s also important to notify someone of your plans and let them know where you’re going, when you plan to leave, and when you plan to return. Finally, don’t forget to bring any necessary documents or identification cards with you.
Q: How do I stay safe during day hiking?
A: Stay safe while hiking by informing someone of your plans, packing the right gear and supplies, and being aware of your surroundings. Make sure you’re properly hydrated and that you have the necessary first aid supplies in case of an emergency. Also, be mindful of wildlife and any potential hazards on the trail.
Q: What else do I need to know about day hiking?
A: It’s important to plan ahead and research the terrain of your hike before heading out. Know your limits and be prepared for any unexpected events you might encounter on the trail. Stay on established trails and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when hiking. Above all, have a great time and enjoy the adventure!
Q: What is Leave No Trace?
A: Leave No Trace is an international organization that promotes ethical outdoor recreation practices by encouraging hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts to “leave no trace” behind when they are visiting natural areas. This means doing things like packing out what you pack in, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.
Q: What are some of the benefits of day hiking?
A: Day hiking is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. You’ll be able to explore new places, connect with friends and family, and build up your physical endurance. Plus, it’s an affordable way to stay active while also promoting mental health and wellbeing. With proper preparation, you can enjoy an amazing outdoor experience without having to commit to an overnight excursion!
Q: What other information should I know before embarking on a day hike?
A: Before embarking on any outdoor excursion, it’s important to research the area and become aware of any potential hazards. Plan your route, check the weather forecast, and review safety guidelines for the terrain you’ll be hiking. It’s also important to stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring along supplies like water, food, and a first-aid kit.
Q: How do I choose gear that is appropriate for my day hike?
A: Choosing the right gear for your day hike is essential to ensure a successful and safe trip. Think about the terrain you’ll be hiking and bring appropriate clothing, footwear, and supplies that are suited for the conditions. Consider investing in quality items like breathable fabrics, waterproof shoes, a first-aid kit, and other items that can help make your day hike more enjoyable. With the right gear, you can have a memorable experience while exploring nature on your day hike!
Outdoor Blog
Hiking Safety Tips and Precautions

Hiking is an incredibly rewarding activity that allows you to explore the beauty of nature, get some exercise, and spend quality time with family and friends. However, it also comes with certain risks that should not be taken lightly. To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike for everyone involved, it’s important to take the necessary precautions.
In this article we will discuss essential safety tips and precautions for hikers so they can make sure their outdoor adventures are as safe as possible. We’ll cover topics such as researching your destination before heading out on the trail; packing essential items like a first-aid kit, map/GPS device, water bottle, snacks; letting someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return; dressing appropriately for weather conditions; staying aware of your surroundings at all times; being prepared in case of emergency situations; and more.
Research the area you plan to hike – know what type of terrain, wildlife, and weather conditions you may encounter
Before you head out on a hike, it’s important to be aware of the environment and terrain you’ll be tackling. Research the area thoroughly to find out what type of wildlife, plants, and other obstacles may cross your path. Also, check up on weather conditions such as temperature and rainfall so you know how best to dress for the hike and whether or not it’s safe to set out in the first place.
Pack essential items like a first-aid kit, map/GPS device, water bottle, snacks, sun protection gear (hat/sunglasses), etc.
In addition to researching your destination before heading out on the trail, make sure to pack essential items such as a first-aid kit, a map or GPS device (in case of getting lost), a water bottle and snacks (for hydration and energy), sun protection gear (hat/sunglasses) in case of sunny days. A whistle is also important for signaling for help if necessary. It’s also advisable to bring extra clothing layers for added warmth in case temperatures drop unexpectedly during your hike.
Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return
Before you set out on your hike, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you expect to return. This way, if anything happens during the course of your hike, help can be sent quickly.
Dress appropriately for weather conditions
It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions that you’ll encounter along your hike. Make sure to wear layers so you can adjust as needed and avoid being too hot or too cold. Wear sturdy shoes or boots to provide good support and traction on slippery terrain, and choose clothing that is breathable, lightweight and comfortable. Synthetic fabrics are preferable over cotton because they tend to dry faster in case of sudden downpours or sweat build-up from physical exertion.
Stay on established trails whenever possible and follow all posted signs or warnings
Stay alert to your environment and any changes that may occur. Pay attention to the terrain and watch out for any signs of danger, such as slippery rocks, loose gravel, unstable ground, etc. If you come across a potentially hazardous area, backtrack until you find a safe way around it. Don’t take risks that could put yourself in danger.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Bring only enough money for food or emergencies. It’s not wise to carry large amounts of cash while hiking, since this can make you an easy target for thieves or predators. Bring only enough money for food or emergency situations. Also bring identification, such as a driver’s license or passport in case you need to identify yourself.
In case of medical emergency situations, know what to do
If something happens and you need medical assistance while out on the trail, it’s important to be prepared before heading out on your hike. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit and know how to use it. Also, be familiar with the area in case you need help locating emergency services or medical facilities nearby. It’s also a good idea to carry a GPS device so you can easily locate your exact position if needed.
If possible carry a cell phone with an emergency contact programmed in it
When hiking, it’s a good idea to carry a cell phone with you in case of an emergency. Make sure the battery is fully charged and an emergency contact (such as a family member or close friend) is programmed in the device. That way, if something happens, help can be sent quickly.
Avoid hiking alone; always have at least one other person with you who is familiar with the area
It’s important to never hike alone. Make sure there is always at least one other person with you that is familiar with the area and knows what to do in case of an emergency. This can greatly reduce the risk of something happening, as well as provide a sense of security if something does happen.
Bring food and water for energy and hydration
Make sure to bring enough food and water for your entire hike, plus extra in case of emergencies or unexpected delays. Dehydration is a common problem among hikers, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout your hike in order to avoid it. High-energy snacks are also recommended so you’ll have enough fuel for the journey ahead.
Know basic navigation techniques before heading out into unfamiliar territory
If you’re heading out into unfamiliar territory, make sure to know basic navigation techniques such as map reading and compass use. This will help you find your way if something goes wrong or if there are no trails in the area. Knowing these skills can also help you avoid getting lost in the first place.
Finally, check the weather before going on a hike
It’s always a good idea to check the weather before going on a hike so that you can plan accordingly. Make sure to dress appropriately for the conditions and be aware of any potential storms or other hazards that could affect your hike. Knowing what to expect can help ensure that you have an enjoyable time on the trail. Hiking is an activity that many people enjoy, but it’s important to take safety precautions before heading out into the wilderness.
Conclusion
Hiking is an enjoyable and rewarding outdoor activity, but it is important to keep safety in mind. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, bring enough food and water, know basic navigation techniques and check the weather before heading out on your hike. Always have at least one other person with you who is familiar with the area, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If something happens while you’re out on the trail, make sure you know what to do in case of emergency situations. By following these safety tips and precautions, you can ensure that your next hiking adventure will be a safe and memorable one!
FAQs
What should I wear when out on a hike?
It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that won’t restrict your movement and make sure to have appropriate footwear for the type of hiking you’re doing (e.g., boots or sneakers). Layering is also recommended so you can easily adjust your clothing if needed.
How much food and water should I bring?
You should bring enough food and water for the entire duration of your hike plus extra in case of emergencies or unexpected delays. High-energy snacks such as trail mix are recommended, as well as plenty of fluids to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
What should I do if I get lost or something happens while on a hike?
If you find yourself lost, stay calm and don’t panic. If you have a cell phone with you, make sure the battery is charged and an emergency contact (e.g., family member or close friend) is added in case help needs to be sent quickly; then try to ascertain your location and retrace your steps back toward safety. It’s also important to avoid carrying large amounts of cash out on a hike in case of emergencies.
Q: What should I do if I encounter a wild animal while on a hike?
If you encounter a wild animal, stay calm and slowly back away. Do not approach the animal or try to touch it; instead, give it plenty of space and slowly move away from the area. Also, avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the animal. If possible, carry pepper spray with you in case a situation arises where you must protect yourself.
Q: Are there any other safety tips I should be aware of before heading out on a hike?
Yes, there are several other safety tips to keep in mind when planning for a hiking trip. Make sure you tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return; bring enough supplies for the entire duration of your hike; stay on established trails whenever possible; avoid traveling alone; and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Outdoor Blog
How to Plan a Multi-day Backpacking Trip

Are you ready to take your backpacking adventure to the next level? Multi-day backpacking trips offer a unique opportunity to explore and connect with nature. They also provide an exciting challenge for those who are looking for something more than just a day hike.
Planning such a journey can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry – we have put together some tips and advice that will help make sure your multi-day backpacking trip is successful and enjoyable!
From researching your destination and planning the route, to choosing the right gear, packing light but not forgetting essential items, preparing for different weather conditions, staying safe in the wilderness, leaving no trace when camping and taking time to relax during your trip – this guide will cover everything you need to know about planning an epic multi-day backpacking trip!
Research Your Destination and Plan the Route
Researching your destination is especially important if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Look into the terrain, weather patterns, and natural features like rivers, mountains, and valleys. Knowing these details can help you plan your route and avoid any unexpected challenges.
When planning your route, take into account the distance you plan on hiking each day and make sure there are places to camp along the way. A good rule of thumb is to not plan on hiking more than 10 miles a day, especially if you’re new to backpacking. Factor in water sources, too. You don’t want to run out of water in the middle of a long stretch without any source nearby.
Choose the Right Gear for Your Trip
Choosing the right gear will help ensure that you’re comfortable on the trail. Look for gear that’s lightweight, durable, and warm enough for the weather conditions. The right backpack is critical, so make sure it’s the right size and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Test your gear before your trip so you know how it works and what needs adjusting.
Food planning is also important. Focus on calorie-dense, easy-to-prepare foods that don’t need refrigeration. Trail mix, dried fruit, and jerky are examples of easy-to-carry snack options. You’ll also need a portable stove, cooking pot, and utensils to cook with. Make sure to bring enough food for the entire trip, plus a little extra.
Prepare for Different Weather Conditions
It’s essential to be prepared for changes in weather. Check the forecast before your trip and bring appropriate clothing layers. A waterproof, breathable jacket is essential in case of rain, as is a warm layer in case of cold temperatures. Sun protection is also important – bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Packing a map and compass, or a GPS device, is a good idea in case you get lost or the trail is no longer visible.
Know How to Stay Safe in the Wilderness
Safety should be a top priority when backpacking. Before you head out, familiarize yourself with the area’s wildlife and vegetation. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a first aid kit and communication devices like a personal locator beacon.
Avoiding accidents begins with careful planning. Always notify someone of your route and when you plan to return. Stick to designated trails and campsites, avoid climbing steep slopes or cliffs, and avoid areas affected by wildfires or other hazards. Always treat natural water sources before drinking from them by boiling or filtering.
Leave No Trace – Practice Responsible Camping Etiquette
Leaving no trace means leaving the environment exactly as you found it. Carry out all trash and dispose of it properly, and avoid damaging any vegetation or harming any wildlife. Use established campsites and refrain from spreading out too much or disturbing the environment. Use biodegradable soaps and avoid washing in streams or rivers. When nature calls, pack out all toilet papers and dig holes away from water sources.
Take Time to Enjoy Nature and Relax During Your Trip
Perhaps the most important tip for a successful backpacking trip is to take time to enjoy nature and relax during your journey. Don’t forget that you are embarking on an adventure – so make sure to take some time for yourself each day! Whether it’s meditating, stargazing, or simply taking in the scenery – savor these moments as they will help create lasting memories from your multi-day backpacking trip. If you’re considering a multi-day backpacking trip, there’s a lot to consider before hitting the trails. Planning ahead will help you have a successful and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips on how to plan a multi-day backpacking trip.
Document your Experience with Photos, Videos, and Writing
Don’t forget to document your experience! Photos and videos are a great way to look back on the memories you made while backpacking. Also consider keeping a journal throughout your trip – writing down your thoughts, observations, and stories from the trail can help bring back all the details of your journey.
Conclusion
Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors and experience nature. With good planning, it can be an enjoyable and safe adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. Do your research, choose the right gear, plan properly for meals and weather conditions, and practice responsible camping etiquette. Don’t forget to take time to enjoy yourself during your journey!
FAQs
Q: What are some essential items I should bring on a backpacking trip?
A: Essentials include a sturdy backpack, sleeping bag, tent or tarp shelter, clothing layers appropriate for the season/conditions, food & cookware, water purification system or tablets, first aid kit, map & compass/GPS device, sun protection, and a personal locator beacon.
Q: What is the “Leave No Trace” principle?
A: The Leave No Trace principles are seven guidelines designed to help minimize human impact on the environment while enjoying the outdoors. Principles include planning ahead and preparing, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors.
Q: What should I do if I get lost or injured in the wilderness?
A: If you get lost or injured in the wilderness, stay calm and try to determine your location by looking for landmarks or other clues. Contact someone as soon as possible – either use a personal locator beacon or call for help. Do not attempt to traverse difficult terrain, as this can put you in further danger. If you are injured and cannot move, stay where you are until help arrives.
Q: How do I stay safe from wildlife while backpacking?
A: Stay aware of your surroundings and be sure to store all food items away from your sleeping area at night. While on the trail, make noise and avoid surprising wild animals – try to remain visible when in their territory. If confronted by a wild animal, try to remain calm, back away slowly, and never approach them. In case of an attack, fight back with whatever is available – like sticks or rocks – and don’t give up!
Q: What should I do with my waste while camping?
A: Be sure to dispose of all trash, food scraps, and other waste properly. If you are camped near a fire ring or designated area for burning waste, then use that. Otherwise, pack out what you can in sealed plastic bags – unless it is human waste which needs to be buried away from water sources.
Q: How can I plan ahead for different weather conditions?
A: Before leaving on your trip, check the forecast for the area you will be visiting and plan accordingly. Bring layers appropriate for the season and any unexpected changes in temperature or precipitation. Researching potential weather conditions before leaving will help ensure a safe and enjoyable backpacking experience!
Q: What should I do if I don’t have a lot of backpacking experience?
A: Start off slow by planning a shorter trip over less difficult terrain. Before your journey, practice setting up your tent or tarp shelter and making camp with the gear you will be using on the trail. Join an experienced group for your first adventure – this is great way to learn from more experienced backpackers and can give you the confidence to tackle bigger trips in the future.
Q: Is it possible to backpacking alone?
A: Many people enjoy solo backpacking trips, as it allows for more personal reflection and exploration. However, it does require extra caution due to potential safety risks. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return home, and be sure to bring along a personal locator beacon in case of an emergency.
Q: What other tips do you have for a successful multi-day backpacking trip?
A: The key to a successful multi-day backpacking adventure is preparation. Be sure to research your destination, plan meals and snacks ahead of time, choose the right gear for the conditions, pack light but don’t forget essential items, and prepare for different weather conditions. Finally, know how to stay safe in the wilderness by being aware of your surroundings and following the Leave No Trace principles. With proper planning and preparation, your next backpacking trip will be an enjoyable and memorable experience!
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