Imagine carrying your entire life, food, water and shelter on your back for multiple days at a time. This is the reality of backpacking, an activity that combines long distance hiking with wilderness camping. Without the use of phones or the internet, hikers must manage their own supplies, navigate trails on varying terrain and use real-world problem solving skills.
Navigating these demands without the assistance of technology forces participants to adapt to living entirely off of their back in an independent bubble.
“I think backpacking builds confidence and independence because you are given problems or challenges that you have to overcome. When you do overcome them, either by yourself or with help, you feel accomplished and better about yourself and your well being,” said Leah Weeks, a sophomore at Willow Springs High school and a crew leader of Venturing Crew 320.
This sense of accomplishment stems directly from the mastery of off-grid navigation and route planning skills sometimes without cellular service or GPS. By removing these daily conveniences, backpacking serves as a practical test of physical stamina, turning outdoor obstacles into opportunities to develop measurable life skills.
The digital disconnect that backpacking provides can force a shift in how students interact with their immediate environment on a daily basis.
“I think students my age could learn many things from being outside and taking a break from technology, but a big one is to just slow down and open your eyes to what’s around you and not just what’s on the screen in front of you,” said Weeks.
This habit of situational awareness replaces a constant stream of digital notifications with real-time observation of the greater beauty of the world around you.
While the personal growth and environmental awareness gained on the trail are significant, backpacking also serves a distinct social purpose. Backpacking forces real-world communication with your peers.
“Hiking with a partner or even in a group can improve the strength and health of your relationships…it’s a great way to strengthen the friendships or bonds you have with your companions,” according to The National Park Service.
This growth is a result of the shared physical challenges you may face on the trail and the consistent needed support to persevere during a difficult hike. Shared experiences like these can help your bonds stick like glue.
Ultimately, backpacking offers a multitude of benefits for many people and can be more than just a simple weekend getaway. Not only do these excursions have a positive impact on physical and mental health, but backpacking also serves as a hands-on lesson in self-reliance. The next time you’re doomscrolling in bed, leave the phone behind, strap on a pack, grab a friend and hit the trails. You never know, your next great challenge and greater, brighter mindset could be waiting for you at the summit.
