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SPONSORED: How to start a hiking, backpacking habit in 2022
WBA 2021
Backpackers enjoy the view on a 2021 trip with World's Best Adventures, a Gainesville-based company that offers all-inclusive trips.

This article is presented by a sister company of The Times, Gainesville-based World's Best Adventures, which offers all-inclusive backpacking adventures to North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains.

In 2021, we in the outdoors industry saw something really amazing.

Amidst a global pandemic that halted travel around the world and kept people isolated in their homes for months at a time, more people than ever before began going outdoors, hiking, backpacking, camping, paddling, and enjoying nature in ways they never had before.

But if you weren’t a part of that movement, don’t feel bad because there’s still time to get outdoors in 2022, and hiking, backpacking, and camping are a really good way to do that.

Are hiking and backpacking right for me?

To make a long story short, yes. Hiking and backpacking are great activities for basically anyone of any age, skill level, or physical condition. Not everyone is climbing 12,000-foot mountains on their first outing, but no matter where you live there will almost always be a hike for your skill level.

In addition to its accessibility, hiking is also a really great way to get in shape and stay in shape. Hiking is an exercise that mixes aerobics, endurance, strength training, and is very good for the lungs and heart.

How do I start hiking and backpacking?

Starting to hike is simple, find a nature trail near you and start walking. If you’re new or aren’t in the best shape, start with something flat and not too long, walk and enjoy the scenery.

From there, start looking for new short hikes (which we call “day hikes”) in your area and as you grow stronger and more used to the exercise, make the hikes longer and more intense. Boom, you’re a hiker now.

For backpacking, things get a little more complicated, because with backpacking you need gear, food, plans, permits, and a bunch of other things that take a bit more planning. Getting started backpacking on your own is definitely possible, but in most cases, it’s easier to get started with a friend, family member, or professional guiding service that can help you on your way.

World’s Best Adventures’ Backpacking Quickstart Guide

For more tips on backpacking, check out our Trail Blog.

Why take a trip with World’s Best Adventures?

If you are interested in the outdoors but don’t have the gear, knowledge, or time to plan a trip for yourself, we totally understand. Everyone who loves the outdoors has been there at some point or another.

World’s Best Adventures was founded on the idea that you shouldn’t have to be an expert with tons of time for planning and preparation to have a meaningful wilderness adventure.

Our adventures are all-inclusive, giving you a hassle-free adventure that includes all gear, food, planning and permits, with exceptional service, tons of fun and education on outdoor skills that will lead you on future adventures into the great outdoors.

Learn more about our upcoming spring 2022 adventures to North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains at www.worldsbestadventures.com.