Your First Overnight Backpacking Adventure - how to make sure everything goes right

So you've been on your share of day hikes, and now you are ready for your first overnight backpacking adventure. The difference between a day hike and staying somewhere overnight isn't huge, but there are a few things you will need to be aware of that could significantly affect your experience. I won't insult your hiker intelligence by reminding you that you shouldn't forget to bring a tent. I just didn't I? Okay, my bad! I will, however, remind you that a backpacking trip is not the same as a day hike. In most cases, you won't need a tent if you go on a day hike.

You should consider three areas when prepping for your overnight backpacking trip:

Geography - Make sure you understand the terrain you will be engaging. What elevation will you be hiking at or towards? Know the weather conditions before you take one step out of the house. This will determine in large part what you pack. You do not want to get stuck in a storm with no way to stay dry. You might want to try a destination that is close to civilization rather than a remote area where it might be difficult to find you if you got hurt and couldn't walk out on your own. Plan on hiking around the same distance you have been on during your day hikes.

Food - You will need trail "fuel" so pack a reasonable amount of snacks and "just add water" types of food packets. And of course, bring a good amount of water. Severe dehydration will do all sorts of weird things to your sense of direction and coordination if you let it get too bad. Avoid canned food (too heavy) and try and estimate how much you will eat and pack a little bit more in case you have to spend more time out there than you thought.

Gear - Gear can be broken down into several areas but the most important ones are safety and comfort. Of course, all of the usual suspects are in order here: comfortable worn-in shoes/boots, non-cotton attire, good quality socks, rain gear, insect repellant, bear spray, First-Aid, and a backpack that has the features you need and fitted correctly to your body. I don't believe in "hiking lists" but if you do you can .download this list from REI:

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-checklist.html

Hiking destinations in Washington for overnighters:

https://www.wta.org/go-outside/new-to-hiking/backpacking-101/backpacking-101-on-the-trail

https://www.wta.org/go-outside/seasonal-hikes/summer-destinations/overnight-backpacking-destinations