Go backpacking, walk the trails day after day, discover new landscapes at each stage… Itinerant hiking is gaining ground in France.
This form of travel on foot, where you move from one point to another without returning to base camp, attracts a growing number of followers looking for adventure and reconnection with nature. But what makes this practice so attractive? What are the challenges to overcome? And how to prepare for it?
Let’s explore together the multiple facets of this unique experience which transforms a simple walk into a true odyssey.
What is backpacking?
Itinerant hiking is the art of traveling on foot, changing places every day. Unlike classic hiking where you return to your starting point, here you trace your route from stage to stage. This approach allows you to experience total immersion in nature and the territories crossed.
The very essence of this practice lies in its nomadic side. We leave for several days, even several weeks, with only what we can carry on our back. It is a long-term journey, a continuous progression which offers an incomparable feeling of freedom.
The advantages of touring hiking
If itinerant hiking is becoming more and more attractive, it is because it has many advantages:
A total disconnection
In our hyperconnected world, backpacking offers a rare opportunity to complete disconnection. Often far from cellular networks, the hiker finds himself face to face with himself and nature. No more incessant notifications and daily stress. The concerns boil down to finding the next water point or an ideal place to pitch your tent. This break with the virtual world allows you to refocus on what is essential and to fully experience the present moment.
A daily renewal
Every day brings its share of discoveries. When hiking, you never tire of the landscape because it is constantly changing. One day, we cross a dense forest, the next day we climb a peak to admire a breathtaking panorama, and the day after that we perhaps follow a wild coast. This diversity of landscapes stimulates the mind and nourishes curiosity. It is a journey that engages all the senses and allows you to appreciate every detail of the path traveled.
Benefits for body and mind
Walking several hours a day isn’t just great exercise. It is also an activity that has beneficial effects on the mind. Sustained effort releases endorphins, these feel-good hormones. In addition, the feeling of accomplishment that accompanies each step achieved boosts self-confidence. Itinerant hiking is thus a wonderful school of perseverance and autonomy.
Getting ready for adventure: essential equipment
Good preparation is the key to a successful backpacking trip. Here are the essential elements not to be neglected:
Shoes: the crucial choice
THE shoes are arguably the most important part of your equipment. They must be both comfortable, robust and adapted to the terrain you are going to cover. Opt for models that offer good ankle support and a sole capable of absorbing shock. A golden tip: never leave with new shoes! Make sure you have them well broken in before the big departure to avoid blisters and other inconveniences.
The backpack: your portable home
The backpack is your traveling companion. It must be both spacious and light. A volume of 40 to 50 liters is generally sufficient for a traveling hike lasting several days. Choose a model with good padded shoulder straps and a waist belt to distribute the weight across your hips. Waterproofing is a significant plus. Remember: the less you pack, the more you will enjoy the walk. The art of minimalism is learned with experience.
Bivouac equipment: your nomadic refuge
To sleep under the stars or shelter from bad weather, light and compact bivouac equipment is essential. This includes:
- A tent light and easy to assemble
- And sleeping bag adapted to the temperatures you will encounter
- And mattress insulation to protect you from the cold of the ground
Opt for quality, lightweight and space-saving equipment. Your back will thank you with every step!
Planning your route: the key step
Preparing the route is a crucial step for a successful backpacking trip. Here are some key points to consider:
Choose your route
France is full of trails suitable for touring hiking. From the mythical GR5 which crosses several European countries to the coastal paths of Brittany, passing through the Alpine trails, the options are numerous. Choose an itinerary that matches your physical level and your desire for discovery.
Study the steps
Once the route has been chosen, break it down into realistic stages. Take into account the difficulty of the terrain, your physical condition and the time you have. Don’t hesitate to plan shorter days at the beginning to acclimatize.
Identify strategic points
Identify in advance the water pointsshelters or lodgings, and supply possibilities. This information is crucial for managing your water and food supplies.
Document yourself
THE topo-guides are valuable resources for preparing your hike. You can find them in specialized stores like Intersport or Decathlon, or directly on the website of the French Hiking Federation. These guides provide detailed information on routes, difficulties, points of interest and accommodation.
Tips and advice from experienced hikers
Testimonials from experienced hikers are a gold mine for preparation. Here are some tips gleaned from those who have already walked the trails:
Lighten your load
Some hikers opt for luggage transport services. These services allow you to send some of your belongings from one point to another on your route, allowing you to walk with a lighter bag. This is particularly useful if you are planning long stages or if you are new to backpacking.
Take advantage of the infrastructure
The campsites and lodges along the route are valuable allies. They not only offer a roof over their heads and a comfortable bed from time to time, but also the possibility to get supplies, do laundry or simply charge your electronic devices. Don’t hesitate to include them in your schedule for well-deserved breaks.
Manage your pace
Hiking is not a race. Learn to listen to your body and adapt your pace. Plan regular breaks to hydrate, eat and enjoy the scenery. A good pace will allow you to last over time and fully appreciate your adventure.
Environmental impact: responsible hiking
Backpacking is a great way to get closer to nature, but it also carries a responsibility towards the environment. Here are some principles to keep in mind:
Leave no trace
This is the golden rule of responsible hikers. Bring back all your waste, even biodegradable. Use reusable bags for your groceries and favor products with little packaging.
Respect the fauna and flora
Stay on marked trails to avoid trampling vegetation. Do not frighten the animals and observe them from afar. Nature is not a zoo, but a fragile ecosystem to be preserved.
Choose your bivouac location carefully
If you are camping in the wilderness, choose a location that minimizes your impact on the environment. Avoid fragile areas and respect local bivouac regulations.
The challenges of backpacking
Although rewarding, backpacking also presents its share of challenges:
Effort management
Walking for several days in a row can be taxing, especially at first. You must learn to manage your effort over time, to listen to your body and not to overestimate its capabilities.
The weather forecast
The weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. You must be prepared for sudden changes in weather and adapt your itinerary if necessary.
Loneliness
For those who go alone, loneliness can sometimes take its toll. It is both a challenge and an opportunity to come face to face with yourself.
Itinerant hiking, a trend that is part of the times
In 2024, itinerant hiking fits perfectly into current trends:
Slow tourism
In a world that is moving ever faster, hiking offers an alternative, a way to travel slowly, to take the time to observe and absorb the places you pass through.
Ecotourism
With a minimal carbon footprint, backpacking responds to growing ecological concerns. It’s a way of traveling in harmony with nature.
The quest for meaning
In a society in search of meaning and authenticity, hiking offers a profound and transformative experience. It allows you to reconnect with what is essential and experience a meaningful adventure.
Backpacking is much more than just an outdoor activity. It is an adventure that transforms, that pushes you to surpass yourself and to rediscover the world at a human pace. It offers a unique break in our hectic lives, an opportunity to reconnect with nature and with ourselves. So, are you ready to lace up your boots and go on an adventure? The trails are waiting for you to reveal their secrets and offer you unforgettable memories. Itinerant hiking is an invitation to a long-term journey, a personal odyssey that is just waiting to begin. Pack your bags, set, go!
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