Top Backpacking Mistakes: The Items I Regret Buying

When embarking on a backpacking trip, it's easy to succumb to marketing hype or recommendations that might not align with your personal needs. In this article, I'll share a few of the backpacking items I regret purchasing, based on my own experiences and what I've learned from them.

Water Systems: The Hydration Caper

In the early 90s, I was swept up in the hydration system craze. These systems promised a continuous supply of water during my hikes, but my experience didn't match the hype. I found that using a traditional water bottle was more reliable. While the theory sounds great, the practice fell short. Instead of overcomplicating the process, it's better to simply pull out a bottle when you need to drink.

Gaters: A Wasted Investment

I purchased gaters before going on a backpacking trip in Mount Rainier National Park. My intention was to keep snow out of the back of my boots, but in reality, the gaters didn't prevent any snow from entering. Despite my snowshoes having to navigate a steep, vertical climb, my gaters did little to protect my ankles. Most rain pants and wind-breaking pants come with built-in gaters, which would have been a far better choice. I ended up buying mountaineering pants with integrated gaters, which were much more effective.

Walking Poles and Overpriced Jackets: The Bargain Hunter’s Arsenal

The walking pole, while useful, can be expensive and is not always necessary. For incidents where you need stability while scrambling up steep inclines, a poncho can be a lifesaver. These plastic ponchos, cheap and effective, are much more efficient than expensive jackets that trap heat and are prone to leaking. If you do invest in a jacket, make sure it is lightweight and breathable rather than a bulky, overheating sauna.

Air Filter Disappointment: The Sawyer Mini

Having just purchased a Sawyer Mini water purification device, I must say it has fallen short of expectations. The full-sized kit, which costs only $10 more, is significantly more effective. It's a false economy to invest in the mini version, as the full-sized kit offers superior performance.

Gum Boots: A Mid-Life Crisis

For a rainforest hike, I bought gum boots with the intention of preventing leeches from biting. However, my boots were rendered useless when I had to drive to a homestay due to heavy winds and rain. In the middle of the night, I returned to my camp to find a Malabar Pit Viper in one of the boots. This nighttime encounter was certainly traumatizing and led to me never using the boots again. Considering the danger they posed, I believe it would be wiser to donate them or find someone who truly needs them.

Backpacking is all about preparation, but not every gadget or gizmo is worth the investment. Understanding your needs and preferences is key to a successful and enjoyable hiking experience.