When was the last time that you slept underneath the stars? If you cannot remember or you never have, now is the time to change that. Although some people do not like the idea of backpacking because of various outdoor inconveniences, there can be many benefits to doing so. Plus, learning how to overcome common challenges can be personally rewarding.
1. Gets You Out of Your Comfort Zone
While a full day of hiking can seem daunting, getting out in nature and breathing in the fresh air can boost your mood as well as your self-courage – accomplishing a long trek can help you realize just what you’re capable of. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned backpacker, preparing with the right gear, including the best backpacking socks you can find, you’ll be prepared to truly enjoy the journey.
2. Gives You the Chance To Sleep In
Speaking of stress reduction, another pro to backpacking is the fact that it gives you a chance to catch more z’s according to your body’s natural clock. With no alarms, schedules, or garbage trucks beeping at 4 a.m., you can finally get the rest that you have been needing. After a few days, your body will be able to follow the sun’s schedule.
3. Offers Physical Benefits
Backpacking also offers numerous physical benefits. For example, when you walk through the forest, go fishing or hiking or set up camp, these activities count as exercise. You may also go swimming or kayaking in a river or lake. Physical benefits that come from these activities can also have a positive influence on your mental and emotional well-being.
4. Provides Fresh Air
Even though you may not realize it, you probably do not get enough fresh air every day if you live in a city. Air pollution is common. Another benefit of getting away and going outdoors is being able to breathe in the fresh air of nature. Cleaner air can lower your heart rate, boost your mood and increase energy levels.
5. Connects You With Nature
In addition to the fresh air bonus, the connection alone that backpacking offers is something to appreciate about the activity. As technology has progressed, humans have become increasingly disconnected from the natural world. Reconnecting with nature can inspire positive change in numerous ways. There is just something magical about living under the trees.
6. Develops New Skills
Backpacking is also an excellent chance for learning. For example, you must set up tents, tie knots, hang hammocks, start fires, cook meals, and more. You will run into situations you have never been in, time and time again. As a result of overcoming these challenges and meeting these needs, you will gain and develop many new skills.
7. Increases Confidence and Independence
With the increase in skill building, backpacking also helps individuals increase their confidence and independence. If you have been looking for a way to improve your self-esteem, taking yourself on a solo backpacking trip can be a fun and exciting way to do it. It will force you to rely on yourself while also giving you a chance to relax and reflect.
8. Promotes Quality Time
If you are looking for a meaningful way to increase family quality time, backpacking can be an option. Spending time outdoors can give families and friends an opportunity to ignore daily distractions and focus on appreciating nature together. Whether you play games, sit around the fire talking, or tell stories on your hikes together, there are many ways to enjoy quality time.
9. Unplugs You From Technology
How often do you shut down your computer, turn off your phone and enjoy the present moment without the constant buzz of technology that fills the modern world? Another solid reason why backpacking is good for you is that it gives you a chance to disconnect from electronics which can help you recharge yourself.
If you are looking for a fun way to learn something new and recharge, backpacking could be just what you need. Let these reasons be the inspiration for planning your next trip.