Erika's Question:
How do you plan for a backpacking/hiking trip?

— Erika

Karen's Answer:
Erika,

First things first: Figure out where you're going, how much time you have and what kind of shape you're in. If you're in crappy"been-sitting-at-the-computer-all-winter" shape, plan on lower mileage. If you've just run the New York marathon, you can let yourself be a tad more ambitious.

	Karen Berger Karen is a hiker's hiker. She has finished the Appalachian, Pacific Crest and Continental Divide Trails — making her one of the few who've completed hiking's"triple crown." Meet Karen Previous Answers Hiking Forums

Once you know how many days you have and how many miles you plan to cover, you can make a decision on your route and the length of your hike. Make sure you have the right maps and guidebooks. Don't forget to take into account big climbs or difficult stretches of trail where you're pace might be a little slower. If you're a planner, you might want to decide in advance where your target campsites will be. Some people, however, prefer to"go with the flow."

Discuss your plans with your hiking partner (You should have one, at least until you are confident in your outdoor skills). Make sure you agree on the basics, the most important of which is how many miles you plan to walk each day.

At that point:

Check with the agency that manages the trails you'll be hiking — in some cases, they require permits, which you might need to apply for in advance. Other questions to ask: What are the weather and climate conditions likely to be? Is there any particular gear they recommend? Are there any seasonal considerations you need to be aware of?

Make a gear list. (I actually keep gear lists from every major hike. I include notes about what the weather was like, what gear I used, and what I wish I'd left home. That way, when I go on another similar hike in the future, I can just check my lists to see what to bring.)

Check with your partner regarding sharing gear: You don't both need an army knife, stove, tent, first aid kit, and water filter — so this is a great opportunity to shed some weight.

Get all your gear together and check its condition to be sure nothing is falling apart and no parts are missing. (I've shown up on trails minus the hip belt buckle for a pack and the pump for a stove. So take care to be sure everything is present and accounted for.)

If you haven't been hiking in a while, it's a good idea to take a few walks wearing your boots. It'll help you break your feet — and avoid blisters on the trail.

Shop for food.

Remember last minute items such as water and any food you've stored in the refrigerator.

Have fun.