The biggest obstacle to going on more backpacking trips can be the cost of the gear you need. You might assume that the only big expenses you will have are for your tent and sleeping bag, but the truth is that there may be countless other small expenses that can add up. Here is how to go backpacking on a budget, using household items.
The Use of Plastic Tag Closures From Bread Bags
These little closures are almost weightless. They don’t take up much space in your backpack, either. You can use them to hold wet clothes on lines or keep your sacks closed. There you go, you are already saving money on your next backpacking trip!
A Handy Bubble Mailer
If you have an iPad, then you will have to protect it from dings, spills, or drops. Cases can be bulky, not to mention costly. However, a bubble mailer can be an ultralight alternative you can get from your local post office. This padded envelope is waterproof. It protects against impact. Also, it weighs way less than general tablet cases. While backpacking, these work great as koozies as you rehydrate and reheat freeze-dried meals. This means no more burnt fingertips as you wait for your food to be ready.
Contact Lens Case
Are you sick and tired of using portable, single-use toiletries? Toothpaste, vaseline, lip balm, sunscreen, lotion, eye cream, and pretty much anything else you can dab out or squeeze from a tube can be stored in a contact lens case. It’s a handy container that is also affordable, and portable, and it takes up little space while you are out in the open, backpacking.
Gelato/Nut Butter Jars
There are a lot of containers out there that promise durability and ultralight weight. However, most of them can be quite costly. Do you know what is a sweeter deal? Getting either nut butter or gelato, even if you decide to spend as much money on it as you would on general backpacking containers. Use the jars the same way you would any other container.
Oven or Brine Bags
Don’t spend money on a fancy backpack liner. Use an oven bag or leftover brine. If these bags can hold up a 15-pound turkey for the whole family to enjoy, they can easily hold your gear and keep it dry too. Those bags weigh less than most designated plastic pack liners, and they are more affordable as well. As a bonus, smaller brine bags can be the perfect substitute for waterproof socks!
Go Backpacking on a Budget
If you have come this far in this article, it is likely that you are already planning a backpacking trip and have chosen to do it on the lower end of the spending scale. We hope that these tips and tricks will help you save money while you enjoy being outside and spending time in nature. Don’t forget that you need to plan your expenses and take into consideration any unexpected costs that come in the form of an emergency.