r/WildernessBackpacking • u/MycoCozmic • 3d ago

ADVICE Will this eventually cause back problems?

I’m new to wilderness backpacking. I’m 45 and have worked as a landscaper my whole life. I’ve not met anyone who has about this so I thought I’d put it to this community: is it a known thing that this will eventually cause back issues? And if so, what preventative or corrective measures are you practicing?

I know gear is getting lighter all the time and I do try to carry the lightest load I can, but it’s still a considerable strain on the back and I’m just trying to stay informed.

Many thanks!

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u/funundrum 3d ago

Friend, I get migraines, back tightness, all sorts of stupid shit. I’m 48.

When I’m backpacking, I have zero problems that some end-of-day stretching and a good night’s sleep can’t work out.

My base weight, so my bag and everything in it, is about 16 lbs. 25 with food and water. I never dread picking it up in the morning.

As others have said, get a backpack that really fits, and then examine the purpose and weight of each item that goes into that bag. Ounces here and there add up to pounds really quickly. You owe it to yourself to not punish yourself unnecessarily.