Fastpacking is exactly what it sounds like. Basically, you are taking the typical backpacking activity and speeding it up. While backpacking entails leisurely hiking at a pace that is comfortable for you, fastpacking involves pushing yourself to the next level. The goal of fastpacking is to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. The pace that you take while fastpacking ranges from jogging, to running, to power hiking when you need to cool down. With fastpacking, you bring less in your bag than a usual backpacking trip. This would allow you to get further into the woods, avoid clusters of people, and stay out on longer voyages than traditional backpacking or trail running.
REI Co-op has a lot of great tips for those that want to start fastpacking, what to take on trips
with you, and tips for planning a fastpacking trip. For those that are just beginning, REI suggests building up your fitness regimen, getting comfortable with your gear, partnering with someone that has done it before, starting with small trips, accepting a slower pace than you’re used to, and taking safety precautions. As far as gear to bring, fastpacking requires you to bring the bear minimum. The less weight you have to carry, the better. REI advises packing a base weight of 10-20 pounds, lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing, trekking poles, food, water, and shelter. You can read the full article for more tips here at this link. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/what-is-fastpacking.html#take
Personally, I would need a lot more preparation if I ever wanted to go fastpacking. While I would consider myself strong, healthy, and in shape enough for backpacking, I have never been much of a runner. In high school, I participated in sports that required short bursts of running, like softball and volleyball, rather than stamina heavy activities. I am definitely open to trying fastpacking at least once, but I truly love the relaxing, laid back environment of traditional backpacking.
Comments