Achieving the best results takes time; last-minute training hikes won’t fully prepare you for the rigors of backpacking with a heavy load.
For those with a moderate activity level, we advise 8-12 weeks of dedicated training. If you’ve been consistently active in the past month or so, a 6-8 week preparation may suffice. However, for those starting from a more sedentary lifestyle, consider extending your training to 12-16 weeks.
As a rule, begin your training sooner than you think necessary. This extra time allows for adjustments should any unexpected obstacles arise during your preparation.