As most of us when we start hiking, we wing it. It's only after a few mistakes that we realize the importance of having a good pack even on small day hikes. It's my hope with this article to save you from those mistakes. Contains a printable check list for you to use.

Most people pack way to much when they go on a hiking trip.

There are general rules that people swear by such as 4000 calories per day but in my opinion that really does not make much sense. If you're a large 200+lbs male you'll need a lot more calories compared to small 80 lbs female. The really only useful way is to know your own Basal Metabolic Rate and then adding extra calories on top to factor in the hike.

During my military experience and just overall hiking out in nature it's become painfully obvious to have a very disciplined backpacking setup. You really only make a few mistakes before you learn how important it is. It's my goal with this short article to save you the mistakes I’ve made.