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Want to go backpacking as a couple but not sure if it will work out the way you want it to? Then this blog post is just for you...
Spending time outdoors and sharing adventures with your significant other can take your relationship to the next level. You can even become better partners to each other. But backpacking as a couple can also be stressful and will likely test your relationship. Planning is critical here! You need to have the right mindset and take care of several things as you plan this trip. Backpacking as a couple is challenging enough so it's better if you take time out to ensure everything is set before the trip starts.
Related: The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking For Beginners
Here are 5 tips to keep in mind while backpacking as a couple:
Tip #1: Start with short & easy adventures
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Before you do anything else, ask yourself this question. How outdoorsy or experienced is your significant other? Depending on their experience and fitness level, you could take on challenging hikes. But it's better to start with smaller adventures if this is your first time backpacking with your boyfriend/girlfriend. That way you two won't have to deal with too much physical stress and instead focus on spending quality time with each other. You should initially plan short day hikes and see how fit your partner is. Once you both are comfortable hiking short and easy routes, you can then slowly move your way to tougher, longer backpacking routes. Planning an epic backpacking trip doesn't always mean going on a month-long adventure. Short weekend hikes can also be fun!
Related: 10 Bucket List Worthy Hikes In 2021
Tip #2: Keep your backpack light
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As a rule of thumb, the heavier the load, the harder it is to walk. So try not to pack unnecessary items. Couples should focus on each other while backpacking as a couple and not on the weight of their backpacks. Avoid overstuffing your backpack and only bring the necessities. Take only what you need, not what you think you might need while on the trail. Be very selective about what you want to bring. Keep your checklist of gear and equipment you want to bring as short as possible. Start with the 10 essentials and prioritize bringing items that are lightweight and durable. Look for lighter alternatives whenever possible. Also, any multipurpose item will be a great addition to your hike.
Having difficulty choosing the right backpack for your trip? Then check out this blog post "How to choose a backpack?".
Tip #3: Be flexible about time
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A rigid schedule will take the fun out of your adventure while backpacking as a couple. So when you're planning the trip, be sure to choose a route with a flexible itinerary. This will help decrease the pressure and increase enjoyment during your backpacking adventure. If your partner is not a morning person and doesn't hike often, getting to your final destination for the day can be difficult. In a situation like this, you can't stick to a rigid schedule and you might end up canceling the entire trip. That's why you need to be flexible with your time and avoid overstressing your partner to reach each destination before sunset. If possible, you can try to compromise and spend the night somewhere else. After all, the whole point of backpacking with your partner is to enjoy their company. And not worry about where you're going to spend the night in between the trip.
Tip #4: Avoid getting "HANGRY"
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Tasty and nutritious food is vital when you are backpacking as a couple in the wilderness. Enjoying a hearty meal together on the trail can be romantic. So consider planning the big meals as a couple, and prepare something that you both love. Before starting your adventure, visit your local grocery shop and check out for those foods that are high in calories. These days freeze-dried and caloric dense meals are the go-to food options for hikers and backpackers. Even if you do not eat them at home because they aren’t all that yummy, they can provide the nutrients as well as other minerals that you require when you are in the jungle.
Related: Backpacking Food: Meal Planning Guide
Tip #5: Invest in high-quality gear
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This one’s obvious. You should pack in a high-quality backpacking gear and equipment for longer and more adventurous outings. Get yourself and your partner a durable backpack. Then start looking into tents and sleeping gears. Tents are portable means of shelter that will protect you and your partner from the elements. So invest wisely in a tent that is not only durable and weatherproof but also very easy to set up and takedown. Because no one wants to spend hours setting up a tent.
We recommend buying the Coleman 2-Person Pop-Up Tent. It can easily accommodate 2 people and takes just 10 seconds to set up. A comfy sleeping bag and pillow for two is a must-have item while backpacking as a couple. Be sure to purchase quality gear even if you’re on a budget because it’ll last longer. And always test each item before heading out.
Another important gear is your footwear. Hiking boots can quite easily make or break the trip. To enjoy your hike without blisters and crushed toes, it’s important to buy the right kind of boot for you. First off, figure out what type of surface you'll be walking on most often: sand? mountain cedar forest paths? wet grassy fields? Then go from there!
Related: 7 Ways To Save Money On Hiking Gear
Conclusion
Follow these 5 tips for backpacking as a couple to get the most out of your trip and see your relationship thrive. At first, it won’t be easy to follow all the above-mentioned tips and advice. Accept that life in the wilderness is going to be somewhat or entirely different than staying in the comfort of your home. So be smart and do what seems right to you. Lastly, all that’s left for you to do is simply get out there and explore as many trails as possible with the love of your life.
If you have any questions or tips you want to share, do let us know in the comments down below.
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Lazy campers
September 16, 2022
We understand your time is valuable and your schedule can be variable. That is why we offer 24-hour delivery. Want an overnight trip on Saturday? Give us a call on Friday! After your trip, we will pick up the used gear from your doorstep. Lazy Campers