20 Things Only Backpackers Get Excited About

2. When that new outdoor store is finally open

You know where you’re going to be for the next 5 hours…

3. Winter

“Don’t you hate winter?” “Umm…no.” What’s better than getting to strap on snowshoes, ice climbing, and snowy peaks? Not much.

4. Eating ramen

No, it’s not just a food found in every college kid’s dorm room. It’s a meal sent from the heavens.

5. Reading trail maps

Because what’s more exciting than plotting out your adventure?

6. Buying a sick pair of hiking boots

No, these are not your backup pair. This is what you’ll be wearing everyday until you need a new pair.

7. Climbing mountains

Most people could think of plenty of other things they’d rather do than hike up a mountain. You can’t wait, because you know what’ll be waiting for you at the top.

8. When a new outdoor film hits theaters

Only 127 hours left until you get to watch it…

9. Getting socks for Christmas

Because you can never have enough of them. Woo-hoo!

10. When someone asks you where you will go next

“Well, let me tell you…”

11. Sporks

You’ve gotten so used to eating with them outdoors, you almost forgot that normal people use them, too. They’re just so cool!

12. Getting your campfire started without any struggles

Obviously you can do it though. You’re a pro.

13. Bringing your dog on a hike

You can’t tell who’s more excited for this one.

14. Two-person sleeping bags

This will surely get your significant other to come out for a backpacking trip.

15. Getting your hiking permit

Now you’re free to go!

16. Meeting fellow backpackers

You know you’re going to be best friends right of the bat.

17. Completing long hikes

You don’t have a lot to add to your resume, but you did complete the AT and the PCT, so obviously you’re qualified for everything.

18. HeatTech Shirts

Now you can hike anytime of the year without looking like a giant poof-ball, and that’s flipping awesome.

19. Outdoor workouts

No, you don’t want to go to the gym sometime this week, or ever. That’s because backpacking is the only workout you’ll ever need, and you’re totally cool with that.

20. Hiking season

Yes, you can hike anytime of the year, but there’s nothing like the good ole’ hiking season coming to a start, in which backpackers all over are super excited about. With spring around the corner, you know more trails across the country are going to be open for your backpacking pleasure.