AJ stands for Andrew Jackson, our 7th president. His reputation for toughness earned him the nickname "Old Hickory." A hero of the War of 1812, Jackson has appeared on the $20 bill since 1928.

How to pack

Keep the weight down—make a checklist. Make a Checklist

What will you need on your trip?

List each item you think you'll need, then visit a few web sites that give tips, compare to your own list and modify:

• Giardia Club: Backpacking List;
• Travel Independent: What to Pack;
• America's Wonderland: Sample Backpacking Checklist;
• Caremark: What to Take;
• RealBuzz: 20 Essential Items for Your Backpack.

It's great to do your packing on paper at first, instead of packing and repacking your backpack.

As you load these things into your backpack, cross them off. You'll be packing so many things into your bag that it can be easy to forget something.

Also, you're trying to cut down on the weight of your bag—you don't want to pack anything twice.

Close

Before you start packing, ask questions of your trip leaders to find out about the type of trip you are getting into.

Start with the geography, climate, and expected weather of your destination.

The beauty of backpacking is that you carry everything you need for the trip.

This makes it important for you to minimize the weight of your pack by only bringing the things that you need.

When you understand the area you'll be traveling in, you won't make the mistake of packing unnecessary items. An inexperienced companion brought hairspray, and spent the whole trip regretting its weight.

Pack Only What you Need

Don't waste space on unnecessary stuff.

For example, if backpacking in the desert, you probably won't need to bring snow boots or strapped sandals for stream crossings.

If you're in cold, high altitudes, you might not need to bring a swim suit—unless hot springs are in the works!

Close

The big stuff

If you are backpacking for the first time, rent or borrow the more expensive equipment. This will:

• Save you money;
• Narrow down your preferences;
• Make sure that you enjoy this kind of activity!

Check out equipment reviews. Peer and Professional Gear Reviews

Get a second opinion on gear.

Check out:

• Gear reviews from other hikers;
• Gear advice from professionals.

Close

If you already know that you love backpacking, you already have some ideas of what you want. When you buy your equipment, customize and fit everything to your individual body type.

Sporting goods stores carry a selection of gear for camping and backpacking. First search the Internet for the models and brands you want. You may be surprised to find it's cheapest just around the corner.

You might save a ton of money by shopping online for new and/or used gear.

No matter how you find it, gear is expensive, and doesn't always meet your personal requirements. One alternative is to make your own gear.

Read on to learn about packing the right food...

University of Michigan Credit Union What makes credit unions so great? Members like you. Every dollar you invest in your credit union earns you money while other members borrow it. When you're ready for a loan, other members' savings will be there to help you out at the lowest possible cost.