If you enjoy your getaways a little more on the wild side, then a backpacking adventure could be the perfect trip for you. You shouldn’t jump in without knowing what to expect, though—without the proper preparation, you could put yourself and your fellow travelers in danger. So, if you are planning your first backpacking trip, here is how to survive it.

Train Your Body

If you barely walk to the park and back during your usual lifestyle, your fitness will not be cut out for a backpacking adventure. Hitting the gym or going for regular jogs will boost your fitness levels, but it’d be even better to start hiking just like you would on your trip so that your body gets used to the right kind of exercise. If you don’t have many hiking spots near you, step-ups and downhill lunges are great alternatives.

Plan (Most) Details

While spontaneity might be in your blood, a backpacking trip requires a decent amount of planning. After all, you don’t want to find yourself lost in a foreign country’s wilderness! Before heading off, then, you should book your tickets, research the areas, and write a packing list. If you are leaving from Detroit, then book your DTW airport parking in advance in order to ensure you don’t waste too much time finding a space at the airport.

Purchase the Right Equipment

You’ll need to make a list before you think about setting off. Include items such as a tent, a sleeping bag, some food, and a torch. While you want to pack light, you also want to ensure you’ll be comfortable and warm during the night, which means bringing along blankets and thermal clothing. The backpack itself is also an incredibly important purchase, as you need it to sit right on your shoulders while holding as much as possible. After all, you don’t want an aching back on the first day! and you never know what the weather will throw at you so having a water resistant backpack is for sure the best option.

Choose Calorie-Dense Food

As previously mentioned, you will want to pack as light as possible while still bringing all the essentials. To make this easier on yourself, cut down on your food load by purchasing calorie-dense food, such as sunflower seeds and energy bars. This will help you stay energized and full for longer without needing to carry a bag full to the brim with physically heavy foods.

Test Yourself—But Not Too Much

Life is about pushing boundaries, but don’t choose to take the hardest path if you’ve never even attempted the easier one. Remember to listen to your body above anything else—if you get halfway through a hike and feel too overwhelmed, there is no shame in taking a rest or turning around. What matters most is your safety, so always make that a priority.

Make the Most of Every Moment

During your backpacking adventure, you’ll run into interesting people, breath-taking views, and strange situations. Embrace every single one of them; live in the moment, take it all in, and go home with memories that will last a lifetime.