This is the One Piece of Backpacking Gear No One Really Needs

Backpacking is an activity that requires careful planning and consideration of the gear you will bring with you. Each piece of gear serves a specific purpose and can make a big difference in your comfort and safety while out on the trail. However, there is one piece of gear that many backpackers think they need, but in reality, it is not necessary at all. That piece of gear is the portable camping chair.

The portable camping chair has become a popular item among backpackers in recent years. It is marketed as a way to provide a comfortable place to sit and relax after a long day of hiking, and many people believe that it is an essential piece of gear for any backpacking trip. However, the truth is that the portable camping chair is actually unnecessary and adds unnecessary weight and bulk to your pack.

First and foremost, the portable camping chair adds extra weight to your pack. When you are backpacking, every ounce of weight matters, and bringing along a chair that you will only use for a short period of time is not worth it. The weight of the chair can add up, especially when you consider that you will also need to carry other essential items such as food, water, and a sleeping bag. Carrying unnecessary weight can lead to fatigue and discomfort, and it can also slow you down on the trail.

In addition to adding extra weight to your pack, the portable camping chair also takes up valuable space. Backpacks have a limited amount of room, and every item you bring with you needs to be carefully considered. The portable camping chair can take up a significant amount of space that could be used for more important items such as a first aid kit, a stove, or extra layers of clothing. When you are out on the trail, space is at a premium, and it is important to prioritize the items that are truly necessary for your safety and comfort.

Furthermore, the portable camping chair is not as versatile as some people believe. While it may seem like a great idea to have a comfortable place to sit and relax, the reality is that there are many other options for sitting and resting while out on the trail. You can sit on a rock, a fallen log, or even the ground, and still be able to enjoy the beauty of nature and take a break from hiking. In fact, many backpackers find that they prefer to sit directly on the ground, as it allows them to feel more connected to the earth and the environment around them.

Another important consideration is the impact that the portable camping chair can have on the natural environment. When you bring a chair with you on the trail, you are adding to your footprint and potentially disturbing the delicate balance of the ecosystem. The chair can damage vegetation, disturb wildlife, and contribute to erosion, all of which can have a negative impact on the environment. As stewards of the outdoors, it is important for backpackers to minimize their impact and leave no trace, and bringing along a portable camping chair goes against these principles.

Overall, the portable camping chair is a piece of backpacking gear that no one really needs. It adds unnecessary weight and bulk to your pack, takes up valuable space, and is not as versatile as some people believe. Additionally, it can have a negative impact on the environment and goes against the principles of leaving no trace. When you are out on the trail, it is important to carefully consider the items you bring with you and prioritize the ones that are truly essential for your safety and comfort. In the case of the portable camping chair, it is best to leave it at home and find other ways to rest and relax while out in nature.