My first attempt at a 3-day backpacking trip in the Smokies was a total disaster

I packed way too heavy, my boots gave me blisters by mile 5, and I had to turn back on the second morning. It taught me to test my gear on shorter trips and actually weigh my pack before leaving. What's the biggest mistake you made on your first big hike?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_kai14d ago

Oh man, "cheap poncho just shredded" hits home. @angelapalmer is totally right about matching gear to the actual weather. My first big overnight, I just looked at the daytime high and thought I was fine. Night dropped into the 40s and my flimsy summer sleeping bag was a joke. I spent the whole night wearing every piece of clothing I had, shivering, couldn't sleep at all. It was the longest night of my life. Now I obsess over the overnight low forecast more than anything else.

angelapalmer14d ago

Honestly, the weight thing is such a classic first-timer move. I did the same, brought a whole camp chair and like three extra shirts. The real killer for me was not checking the weather forecast close enough. Got caught in a cold rain I wasn't ready for, and my cheap poncho just shredded. Had to bail early, totally soaked and miserable. It's not just testing gear, it's making sure your gear matches the actual conditions you'll face. That lesson about weighing your pack is gold, but I'd add checking the detailed forecast to the pre-trip checklist too.