I Survived My 1st Backpacking Trip!

OK, so the word SURVIVED may be a bit over dramatic, but it’s an accomplished feeling that feels close enough. 

Before last summer, the last time I did any sort of camping was over 10 years ago in 2010.  My first child was only 1!  I remember we camped at a paid reserved campsite with showers, bathrooms, and running water.  We only camped out for 1 night.

It’s crazy to think that just 1 and half years ago, the thought of camping would repulse me.  Everything about camping in the woods did not excite me.  The thought of packing, unpacking, the amount of dirt tracked in and out, the bathroom situation for non established campsites, and bugs and mosquitoes. Camping was the least pleasant. But then, around January of last year (2022), I decided it was unfair to deny my kids the experience of camping, and made it a mission to go at least once together while they were still young. 

6 months later, we went on our first family camping trip (June 2022).  The experience was eye-opening as we unplugged from all of social media and electronics, and just spent time swimming, talking, playing games, fishing, and hiking.  Suddenly, the mosquitoes, the dirt, the portable toilet, and the unstructured environment no longer mattered.  It became a craving. The thought of unplugging from society’s judgment was the ultimate prize. 

Now, fast forward 1 year from that camping trip, and I completed my very first ever backpacking trip!  I think a part of me is still quite shocked that I did such a thing. Like, Who I Am? What has possessed this Tracy?

At 39, and 3 months shy of 40, I questioned a lot whether I was too old to start such an intensive sport. There was a lot of doubt in my mind. While I don’t feel old, I know my body will say otherwise.  I joined groups to learn more about the sport and began asking for feedback from those who have been in similar contemplation. To my surprise, while it seems most began in their 20s when they are most able, there were plenty like me!  With boosted confidence, and my brother’s willingness to be my partner in this journey, we began to make it a reality. He was quite familiar with this trail as he had done it before. He did additional research on the trail, reservations required, gear, and etc. he truly paved the way for this trip to happen!  

The experience of carrying the minimal for survival, hiking out, and spending a couple nights with no cell service was exhilarating and so peaceful, it’s exactly what working minds needed. Carrying 30 pounds of gear sounds daunting especially on an uphill climb, but it felt amazing afterwards. An emotional accomplishment you can say when the whole trek in and out is completed. 

Now reflecting on the experience, I can’t think of many advantages of backpacking in my 20s vs now in my late 30s other than I was lighter, maybe healthier. Lol. I got married at 21, had my first child at 25. Second at 27, and third at 29. We spent the first decade of their lives doing young family adventures, and now they are at an age where they are very independent both at home and outside. This made them being home with one parent or grandparents a whole lot easier. It was easier on the caretaker or parent, but also a lot more reassuring for me, their mom. My kids know being out in the wilderness, out with nature, on vacation, or just exploring is so good for me and them alike. They know the importance to unwind and take a break from social media or electronics. 

Being alone in my thoughts with just the ocean gives me time to develop perspectives on where I have been in life, where I am, and where I want to go. It’s a self reflection trip where I’m able to fully clear my mind, and reboot.    Knowing you only have the minimal items and nothing else at your disposal is the upmost greatest feeling to unwinding from life itself. When people talk about taking a pilgrimage to self discovery, 

So if you ever need to refresh your mind, start here. Don’t be afraid to tackle new activities. You will be surprised where it can take you. 

Happy Hiking!