Psyching myself out

[Elijah Ziemann]

I've planned for months and I'm finally going on my first ultralight, multi day, tarp camping backpacking trip in 2 days. I'm ready. I know and have everything necessary. I don't know why I'm so nervous. I'm excited and scared, although not of anything in particular.
It's just that I see all of my planning and hard work unfold,
and it scares me in the best way. I don't know why I made this post. Probably because after these months of planning, BackpackingLight has become my place of comfort. I can always find answers here. I guess it's helping me relax. What's something I can do? I need to just DO something. I've packed and unpacked my backpacking 4 times since yesterday. Set up my tarp twice. In the past week I've biked over 80 miles, and walked 50, trying to strengthen my legs. BUT I JUST DON'T FEEL READY.

[Bob Gross]

Maybe cut back on the caffeine for a while.

–B.G.–

[Dan @ Durston Gear]

I find that before a challenging trip, I tend to get a bit nervous because I'm thinking about ALL the obstacles that lay ahead and the sum total is intimidating. However, once the trip starts my focus narrows to just the present obstacle, which is a better state to be in because it's less intimidating and I'm in a position to actually make progress on it.

So my advice is: (1) You'll feel better once you hit the trail and (2) If you know you're ready, divert your focus and spend time learning about the history of the area or something – or go watch TV.

[Ken Thompson]

Go out. If no fun come back. I'll bet you'll be glad you're out there once you are. Just jitters, normal. Have fun. Be safe. Let us know how it goes.

We won't be any more judgmental than we already are.

Nothing to lose!

[Alex H]

It's called being journey proud. Like Bob said, cut back on the caffeine and have a beer or two.

[Nick Gatel]

Sometimes it's best to put it into perspective. It's just walking. It's just day hikes put end to end, with a nightly camp out. Nothing to get stressed about. Oh… and have fun!

[Roger Caffin]

> BUT I JUST DON'T FEEL READY.
In some ways you are not ready. Well, let's say you are not yet *experienced*.
But that is exactly what going on trips will handle.
So, accept it. Yes, it can be exciting. Fine – enjoy it.

At the least, you have been taking every possible step to ensure you are prepared. That is so much better than many. And yes, as soon as you start walking the feelings will all change.

Cheers

[W I S N E R !]

Backpacking Light: Psyching Out Beginners with the "Simplicity" of Ultralight Backpacking Choices Since Ever Since.

[Ken Thompson]

Since ever since? That is a long time.

[M B]

Your just excited, and a bit apprehensive.

Once you start, all will be good.

Like you said, you are prepared, so relax.

[spelt with a t]

Just walkin', dude. Chill out. It'll be fine.

[Jeffs Eleven]

I am Cornholio, I need TP for my bunghole!!

After you hike you'll be like… oh.. I walked …and camped.

[Elijah Ziemann]

I've done summer overnight before, but I was in a tent, in familiar territory, and my pack weighed 37 pounds. If anything I should be less nervous because I'm not carrying almost a third of my body weight, but I am. I think I'm mostly nervous for the other people I'm with. I kind of took the responsibilty for this trip, and I'm nervous that I did something wrong that will affect other people. Today we're making our final adjustments, snd the trip is on Friday. I'll take a lot of pictures and post a trip report. Thanks for helping!

[Loki Cuthbert]

Where is your trip? How many people are you taking out? What kind of milage are you covering over how many days?

Hopefully you've had some experience with overnighters to get you ready with your new gear.

[Author]

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