Backpacking 101: Ultimate Guide to Backpacking for Beginners

Dreaming of starting your first backpacking trip but unsure where to start? The thought of wandering through nature, carrying everything you need on your back, can be both thrilling and intimidating. You might be worried about how to choose the right gear, plan your route, or stay safe on the trail.

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back(pack)! Dive into our comprehensive guide on backpacking for beginners. We’ll walk you through selecting the right gear, planning your route, and essential tips to ensure your adventure is both safe and enjoyable.

The Basics of Backpacking

Backpacking is an exciting way to explore the outdoors, but it’s important to start with the basics.

First, you’ll need the right gear. The most important pieces will be the “Big 3” items for backpacking which are your backpack, tent, and sleep system. Next, you will want to make sure to take your time during the trip planning.

Start with shorter, beginner-friendly trails that match your fitness level. Research the trail conditions, weather, and any permits you might need. It’s also helpful to learn basic map reading and how to use a compass or GPS device in case you get lost. Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return, just to be safe.

Finally, practice good backpacking safety. Pack a first-aid kit and know how to treat common injuries like blisters. Bring enough water and a way to filter more if you’re on a long hike. Remember to respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the environment clean and safe for everyone.

Keep reading as we dive into more essentials for backpacking for beginners.

Day Hiking vs. Backpacking

Day hiking and backpacking might look the same, but they are quite different. Day hiking is when you go out on a trail and come back the same day. It’s a good way to enjoy nature without staying overnight.

Backpacking, however, lasts at least two days, and you camp out in the wild. This gives you more time to explore and really connect with nature, away from your daily routine.

The gear you need is also different. For day hiking, you only need a small backpack, some snacks, water, and a few other things. But for backpacking, you need more stuff like a tent, sleeping bag, and a stove.

This extra gear makes your backpack heavier and the trip more complex, but it also lets you be self-sufficient for several days. Moving from day hiking to backpacking means you need to learn new skills and get used to carrying a heavier load over longer distances.

Even though its tougher, many people find backpacking to be the next step after day hiking. The skills you learn on day hikes, like finding your way, keeping a steady pace, and knowing the trail conditions, help a lot on longer trips.

As you get better, you’ll see that the rewards of backpacking, like the peace of remote trails and the feeling of overcoming challenges, are worth the extra effort. Learn more about the differences of hiking vs backpacking.

Benefits of Backpacking

Backpacking offers a lot of health benefits besides just getting exercise. It helps you feel closer to nature because you carry everything you need with you, which can make you feel really independent and strong.

When you backpack, you learn a bunch of useful skills and grow as a person. Facing challenges like tough trails or bad weather can make you feel more confident and improve your mental health.

Backpacking is good for both your body and mind. It can make you fitter and help reduce stress, making it a great activity that can improve your life in many ways. Now, let’s look at the important gear you need to get started.

Essential Gear for Beginner Backpackers

Starting your first backpacking trip means thinking carefully about what gear to bring. The most important items are the “Big 3”: your backpack, tent, and sleeping gear.

Beginners should start with a good gear checklist that will help layout and plan gear needed. I recommend starting with affordable gear and gear you might already have and then upgrade to lighter options. It’s easy to overpack, but focusing on the essentials will keep your backpack lighter and your trip easier.

It’s not enough to have the right gear. I recommend people starting out to also practice and make sure they know how to use the gear. Test everything before you go to avoid problems on the trail. This will help make your trip smoother and more fun.

You can also save money by renting, borrowing, or buying used gear to try out different options before spending a lot.

Here’s a closer look at each essential item: backpacks, tents, sleeping gear, stoves, and water filters.

Choosing the Right Backpacking Pack

Picking the right backpacking pack is super important for comfort and making your trip easier. For most backpacking trips, a pack size between 40 and 75 liters is best, depending on how long you’ll be out and what you need. For overnight trips, a 40–50 liter pack should work, while longer trips might need a 55–65 liter pack for extra space and even larger for more extended trips.

Comfort is key when choosing a backpack. Look for features like hip padding and a hip belt, which help spread the weight of your pack more evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders. Women-specific backpacks often have hip belts and shoulder straps designed for a better fit, making them a great option for female hikers.

Choosing the right pack ensures you can carry your gear comfortably over long distances.

Selecting a Backpacking Tent

Your backpacking tent is like your home in the wild, so picking the right one is super important. For beginners, look for a tent that weighs less than 4 pounds and is easy to set up, so you can quickly make camp.

You can choose between freestanding tents, which are a little more versatile and slightly easier to set up, and non-freestanding tents, which are lighter but a bit trickier to pitch.

When choosing a tent, I recommend trying a non-freestanding and a freestanding tent out. Play with the pitch and see what you like. For most beginners I believe a freestanding tent is a little more beginner friendly. Just make sure to find one that balances weight, ease of setup, and has the features you like.

Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads

A good night’s sleep is vital for enjoying your backpacking trip, making your sleeping system a critical part of your new backpacking gear. A sleeping pad serves two main purposes: providing comfort and insulation from the ground.

For most backpackers, a pad with a minimum R-value of about 3 is recommended. If you are planning on going during colder weather or want all-season pads go for an R-value of about 5 or higher.

After you pick a sleeping pad, make sure you choose the right sleeping bag or quilt. Ensure the temperature rating matches the expected low temperatures of your trip. Features like a well-fitted hood on a sleeping bag can provide extra warmth.

When choosing a sleeping bag or quilt, think about how you like to sleep at home. Some people find sleeping bags too confining and prefer quilts, which feel more like blankets and offer more temperature control. Sleeping bags usually feel warmer than quilts because they wrap around you. Quilts feel more natural.

Should you bring a backpacking pillow? I have tried many pillows and even used my down jacket as a pillow before, which is the most minimal. Over the years, I have learned that my sleep is very important on the trail, and I actually prefer to use a pillow when backpacking. For beginners, I recommend bringing a pillow at your first few backpacking trips and then experimenting later on.

The right sleeping gear ensures you’ll be well-rested and ready for the adventures ahead, so I recommend trying a few different pieces of gear.

Backpacking Stove and Cooking Gear

Your backpacking stove is like your kitchen in the wild, so it’s super important. Many backpackers like stoves with pots that boil water fast, like the Jetboil Flash. Make sure to test your stove before your trip to make sure it works, and you know how to use it.

For solo trips, a small and light stove like the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe with a TOAKS 750ml pot is great. If you’re going with a friend, you can use the same stove with a bigger TOAKS 1100ml pot and pan combo to cook for two.

These setups help you cook your meals easily, keeping you well-fed and ready for your adventure.

Water Filtration Systems

Filtering or purifying water in the wilderness is really important because streams might be dirty from people or animals.

Common ways to clean water include using a water filter, purification tablets, or chlorine-based chemicals. Good water filter systems are the Sawyer Squeeze or the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. You can use these with a bladder to collect water.

It’s also smart to carry chlorine dioxide pills as backup methods or use in combination with the filters above. A good way to carry water is with a two-liter bladder and a 1L Smart Water or Life Water bottle.

My preferred method for solo is to carry a 2L CNOC bladder and 1L Smart Water bottle(s) in a larger group I will often bring two 2-3 L bladders using a CNOC bladder as my dirty collecting bladder and the other for gravity filtering.

Having the right water filtration system is important and it keeps you hydrated and healthy on the trail. Also, I recommend knowing how to filter water and how much to carry, so you are prepared when out on trail.

The Ten Essentials

When heading out on your first backpacking trip, it’s crucial to be prepared for any situation. The Ten Essentials are a set of critical items designed to help you survive and thrive in the wilderness. Here’s a few of the ten hiking essentials you may need to pack:

1. Navigation Tools: Always carry a map, compass, and a GPS device or app. These tools will help you find your way and stay on course.
2. Headlamp or Flashlight: A reliable light source is essential for navigating and setting up camp in the dark. Make sure to pack extra batteries.
3. First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit is a must. Include supplies to treat common injuries like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
4. Fire Starter: Whether it’s matches, a lighter, or a flint, having a way to start a fire is crucial for warmth and cooking.
5. Shelter: A tent, tarp, or other form of shelter will protect you from the elements. Choose something lightweight and easy to set up.
6. Extra Clothing: Pack a change of clothes, including a warm hat and gloves, to stay warm and dry in different weather conditions.
7. Food and Water: Bring enough non-perishable food and water to last at least a day in case of an emergency. High-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars are great options.
8. Multi-tool or Pocket Knife: A versatile tool can help with a variety of tasks, from cutting branches to repairing gear.
9. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
10. Emergency Whistle: A whistle can help you signal for help if you find yourself in an emergency situation.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure and ready to handle any challenges that come your way.

Planning Your First Backpacking Trip

Backpacking for beginners starts with good planning. Planning and preparing are key for a great hiking trip and backpacking adventure. First, know what gear you need, where you’re going, and how far you’ll hike. For beginners, I recommend starting slow and planning a short overnight trip at first then progressing.

Check the weather before you go. Summer is usually best for beginners in the mountains because the weather is nicer. Knowing the weather helps you pick the best time and place for your trip. Also, learn how to use a map and plan how far you’ll hike each day.

Planning for a backpacking trip involves a lot of factors but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are the steps to plan your backcountry trip now:

• Pick a trail
• Check if you need a permit
• Know what gear you’ll need
• Create an itinerary
• Plan how you’ll get there and back

Picking a Trail and Campsite

Choosing a suitable trail for your first backpacking trip can really help boost your confidence.

Pick a short and easy hike with a backcountry campground. Look for trails with low mileage and little elevation gain. This makes your hike easier and more fun. For beginners, aim for trails between five and eight miles per full day hike so you don’t get too tired.

Think about your fitness level and the trail conditions when picking a trail. Well-used trails are good for beginners because there’s help if you run into problems. Avoid remote areas and trails with lots of elevation gain or tricky stream crossings.

When choosing a backpacking campsite look for sites close to a water source to make water retrieval a little easier. Plan the distance to and from the campsite(s) and look for sources along the trail.

If looking for some new areas, I recommend calling a ranger station of where you plan to hike and ask for suggestions. A lot of time rangers will offer really cool backpacking loops graded to your skill level and can provide up to date information about the weather in the area.

Creating an Itinerary

Creating a detailed plan for your backpacking trip is very important. Here are some easy steps to help you:

1. Know Your Goals: Think about what you want to do on your trip. Do you want to hike a certain distance, reach a mountain top, or explore a cool area? Knowing this will help you plan.
2. Learn About the Trail: Find out about the trail you want to hike. Look up the path, how steep it is, and any dangers. This will help you get ready.
3. Plan Your Route: Decide which way you want to go and write it down. Include how far you will hike each day and where you will camp. Mark areas for water sources along the trail and by the campsite. This will help keep you organized and safe.
4. Check the Weather: Look at the weather forecast for where you will be hiking. Plan your trip with the weather in mind to avoid any surprises.
5. Stay Flexible: Don’t make your plan too tight. Leave some room for changes in case something unexpected happens. This will help you stay calm and enjoy your trip.

By making a good plan, you’ll be more ready for your backpacking trip and can enjoy it with confidence.

Checking Permit Requirements

Before setting out on your backpacking trip, it’s important to check if you need a permit, especially for popular trails in National Parks, which may also have entrance fees. If going to multiple National Parks in the U.S. I recommend an America the Beautiful Pass to help cover entrance fees.

Permits help prevent overcrowding and protect the environment. You can find permit information at local ranger offices or park websites. Some permits can be filled out at a trailhead kiosk or obtained at a ranger station, making it easy for last-minute plans.

If you can’t get a permit for a popular trail, have a backup plan. Some areas require reservations months in advance, and there may be a limited number of permits per day. This is important to remember when planning.

Permit costs usually range from $5 to $30, but some may be free. Make sure to follow local rules about campfires, drones, dogs, food storage, and group size to ensure a safe and legal trip.

Organizing Transportation

Organizing transportation for your backpacking trip is important. Think about parking fees, shuttles, and road conditions to make your trip smooth. For trails that start and end in different places, you might need a second car or a shuttle service. This is especially important for longer trips.

For beginners, I recommend doing a loop trail. They show you different scenery and in majority of cases you won’t need to arrange a ride back to your car. Good transportation planning helps you focus on enjoying your adventure instead of worrying about logistics.

Packing and Preparing for Your Trip

Packing smart and getting ready are key to a great backpacking trip. Know how to pack your backpack right, with the heaviest stuff close to your back for balance. Plan your food to keep your energy up during the hike. Beginners should learn skills like reading maps and using their gear to avoid problems on the trail.

Break in your hiking boots or shoes before the trip to avoid blisters. Adjust your trekking poles to the right height and practice using them. Learn how to read topographic maps and compare them to the real world to get better at navigation. Doing a practice camping trip with your car can help you get used to your gear and avoid mistakes like overpacking.

Here’s how to get ready:

1. Make a packing list.
2. Train and get fit.
3. Plan your food and how to store it.

Creating a Packing List

Making a packing list is very important for your backpacking trip especially when it comes down to backpacking for beginners. Pack your gear in zones, putting the heaviest items in the middle back for balance. Put heavy items at the bottom, close to your spine, to stay balanced while hiking. When packing your sleeping gear or tent. I recommend packing your tent as close to your back or center of gravity as able.

I recommend putting bulkier items in your backpack as close to your back as able. Smaller items like snacks, water, maps, and rain jackets work well in the outside pockets or at the top of the backpack for easy access. Use waterproof bags or backpack liner for electronics, sleeping bags, and camp clothes to keep them dry.

Training and Fitness

Training and fitness are really important for getting ready for backpacking, especially when it comes to backpacking for beginners. Before you go on a multi-day backpacking trip, you need to be physically prepared and know your limits. This helps maximize your comfort out on trails and may even minimize overuse injuries.

Try walking up hills or climbing stairs to get used to hiking conditions. To get stronger, do exercises like lunges, squats, and step-ups. If you can’t hike often, walking in hilly areas or using a stair climber works too.

Start with shorter hikes and slowly make them longer and harder. This will help you get better at hiking. I recommend focusing on strengthening your legs especially if you are prone to knee or hip pain. Strengthening with unilateral exercises may minimize leg injuries and provide performance gains.

Train with a loaded backpack to get used to the weight you’ll carry. This will make sure you’re ready for the physical challenges of backpacking.

Food Planning and Storage

Food planning and storage are key parts of the planning process for backpacking. You need to pack foods that are high in calories but lightweight. I recommend aiming for at least 2,500 calories this works for most people with larger or more active people eating about 250 calories more and smaller people eating about 250 calories less.

If you want to get more accurate calorie intake needs, I recommend using a calculator and set the activity to “Active” or “Very Active” depending on amount of mileage, elevation, and days.

I recommend going for food rich in carbohydrates such as dry foods like pasta, rice, and oatmeal. Avoid heavy foods like canned goods and most fresh foods because they are not good for backpacking.

Snacks like nut butter-filled Clif Bars, trail mix, and other energy bars are great. Treats like chocolate can also boost your mood on tough days.

For most of my hikes and backpacking trips I often bring a treat that may not be healthy, but I know will be satisfying. Some of my favorites have been Snickers, Twinkies, Oreos, and sour gummy worms.

Easy meal options include mac and cheese, ramen, and dehydrated meals from brands like Heather’s Choice, Pack It Gourmet, and Mountain House. Use odor-proof bags to keep animals away from your food and a bear container or bear bag depending on area requirements.

Good food planning and storage will keep you well-fed and safe from animals on the trail.

Last-Minute Checks and Reminders

Before you head out on your backpacking trip, make sure to do these last-minute checks and reminders:

1. Check the Weather Forecast: Make sure you’re prepared for any weather conditions you may encounter on your trip. Adjust your gear and clothing accordingly.
2. Check Your Gear: Ensure all of your gear is in good condition and that you have everything you need. Double-check items like your tent, sleeping bag, and backpacking stove.
3. Check Your Itinerary: Double-check your itinerary to make sure you have all the necessary information and that you’re prepared for any challenges you may face.
4. Let Someone Know Your Plans: Inform a friend or family member of your itinerary and expected return time. This is crucial in case of an emergency.
5. Bring a Map and Compass: Even if you have a GPS device, it’s always a good idea to bring a map and compass as a backup. Make sure you know how to use them.

By completing these last-minute checks, you’ll ensure that you’re fully prepared for your backpacking trip and ready to tackle any challenges that come your way.

Safety and Hygiene on the Trail

Safety and hygiene are super important while backpacking. For quick safety tips. I recommend making sure to plan and have a tip itinerary. Then tell someone your camping plans so they know where you are in case of emergencies. Check requirements, if in bear country use an Ursack or Medium Bear Vault to store food and keep wildlife away.

For hygiene, I recommend bringing items like hand sanitizer, a quick-dry towel, wipes, and biodegradable soap to stay clean. Bad hygiene can make you sick more often than dirty water. Use biodegradable soap away from water sources to keep the environment safe. Staying clean while backpacking will keep you healthy and comfortable on your trip.

Here are some other specific safety and hygiene tips:

• First Aid Kit Essentials: Pack a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Also, bring spare socks, rain gear, a warm layer, and extra headlamp batteries. Keep your first aid kit easy to reach in your backpack.
• Wildlife Safety: Learn about local wildlife to reduce fear. Use bear canisters or odor-proof bags for food storage in bear country. Keep these away from camp. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. If you see a bear, talk to it, avoid eye contact, and back up slowly.
• Leave No Trace Principles: Follow Leave No Trace rules to keep nature clean. Dig a hole 6 inches deep for bathroom needs and pack out toilet paper. Keep tents away from water sources and dig holes at least 200 feet from trails and water. This keeps the wilderness nice for everyone.

First Aid Kit Essentials

A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for handling injuries and emergencies while backpacking. Essential emergency supplies to pack include a first aid kit, spare socks, rain gear, a warm layer, and extra headlamp batteries.

A lightweight first aid kit for backpacking should include plasters for blisters, emergency supplies, and bug spray. Having a comprehensive first aid kit ensures you’re prepared for any situation that may arise on the trail. It’s important to know how to use the items in your kit and to keep it easily accessible in your backpack.

The right first aid supplies help you handle minor injuries and avoid blisters to maximize your comfort and safety out on the trails.

Wildlife Safety

Knowing about the local wildlife can help you feel less scared of animal encounters while backpacking. Depending on where you are, you might see bears, cougars, wolves, raccoons, mice, porcupines, birds, and more.

In bear country, use bear canisters or special bags for food storage to keep animals away. Keep these canisters far from your camp to avoid attracting animals.

Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is important when hiking in bear areas. Wear the bear spray on your waist or shoulder strap for easy access. If you see a bear, talk to it calmly, avoid eye contact, and slowly back away.

Following these wildlife safety tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable backpacking experience.

Leave No Trace Principles

Leave No Trace principles are rules to help keep nature clean and safe. I recommend studying the Leave No Trace principles to help prepare and plan for the backcountry this way you can be ready to help preserve the environment.

Leave No Trace helps covers crucial ways to conserve the environment. Some information I recommend to really focus on are how to poop in the woods, finding and setting up campsites, cleaning dishes, and packing it and out trash.

Navigation and Orientation

Mastering navigation and orientation is essential for a successful backpacking trip. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

1. Use a Map and Compass: A map and compass are essential tools for navigation. Make sure you know how to use them properly. Practice reading topographic maps and using a compass before your trip.
2. Use a GPS Device: A GPS device can be a useful tool for navigation, but make sure you know how to use it properly and that you have extra batteries. Don’t rely solely on technology; always have a backup plan.
3. Pay Attention to Landmarks: Use natural landmarks such as mountains, rivers, and trails to help you navigate. Keeping track of these features will help you stay oriented.
4. Use the Sun and Stars: The sun and stars can be used to help you navigate. Learn how to use them to determine direction and stay on course.
5. Stay Oriented: Keep track of your direction of travel and use landmarks to help you navigate. Regularly check your map and compass to ensure you’re on the right path.

By mastering these navigation and orientation skills, you’ll be able to confidently explore the wilderness and enjoy your backpacking adventure.

Building Confidence as a Beginner Backpacker

Building confidence as a beginner backpacker is important for having a fun and safe trip. It’s all about learning how to stay safe, take care of nature, and enjoy the adventure. Backpacking helps you become more independent, learn new skills, and feel good about yourself. It can also make your relationships stronger and boost your confidence.

My best tips for backpacking for beginners would be to start slow and take small steps to practice and learn. This will help you feel more confident and have a better time. Remember, “slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.” Being well-prepared and following helpful tips can make a big difference for beginners.

Here are some ways to build confidence: deciding whether to backpack alone or with a group, overcoming common fears, and learning from your experiences.

Solo vs. Group Backpacking

Choosing between solo and group backpacking depends on personal preferences, skills, and the type of experience desired. Solo backpacking offers a unique adventure where individuals can experience nature on their own terms.

However, for some I recommend starting in a group and progressing to backpacking solo. For solo backpacking it’s crucial to have strong navigation skills and knowledge of the area when backpacking alone.

Group backpacking allows for shared experiences and safety in numbers but requires coordination and compromise. Traveling with someone experienced can help beginners feel more secure and learn faster.

Both solo and group backpacking have their advantages, and choosing the best option for you will depend on your comfort level and goals.

Overcoming Common Fears

Awareness of common mistakes can empower beginners to tackle the trail confidently. Many beginner backpackers fear getting lost or encountering wildlife. These concerns often stem from insufficient navigation skills and understanding of the trail.

Developing a positive mindset and preparation approach can significantly reduce fears and enhance the experience.

Adequate preparation and familiarity with the trail and potential challenges help overcome common fears. Seeking companionship and mentorship from experienced backpackers provides valuable support and encouragement.

With the right mindset and preparation, you can confidently embark on your backpacking adventure after you have started backpacking.

Learning from Experience

Thinking about time backpacking on past trips helps new backpackers get better for future ones. I recommend keeping a lightweight journal and track what you did and learned on your trip. This can make you feel more confident in your backpacking skills. While also boost confidence and encourage you to try harder trails and explore more places.

Backpacking is more about starting and learning from the past trips. I find that a lot of people get stuck in fear and the beginning process of backpacking and never actually get to doing it. I recommend to “just get out there and do it” don’t get stuck in the “paralysis by analysis” stage.

I have learned a lot from past trips and each trip has gradually become more fun as my confidence has improved. The fears and doubts you have; I have once had myself it just took time to get over my fears and build that confidence. Use every trip as a chance to learn and become a more confident and skilled backpacker. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between day hiking and backpacking?

The main difference is that day hiking wraps up in a single day, while backpacking spans at least an overnight to multiple days of camping in the backcountry. Backpacking involves more gear and prep, giving you a deeper connection to nature.

What essential gear do I need for my first backpacking trip?

The essentials for backpacking are the “Big 3”: a solid backpack, a tent, and a good sleeping system. Plus, other essentials such as a backpacking stove, a water filtration system, and suitable clothing to layer and stay comfortable.

How do I choose a suitable trail for my first backpacking trip?

For your first backpacking trip, pick a short and easy trail with little elevation gain and well-marked paths. This way, you’ll have a safer, more enjoyable experience as you get comfortable with the adventure.

What should I include in my first aid kit for backpacking?

Make sure to pack basic gear such as scissors or a multi tool with scissors, blister and foot care items, and over the counter medications. These items will help you tackle common issues on your backpacking adventure.

How can I build confidence as a beginner backpacker?

You can build confidence as a beginner backpacker by preparing well, choosing shorter trips, and learning from each outing. Start slow and then progress don’t jump in too fast. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced backpackers to help boost your skills and comfort level.

Final Thoughts

In summary, starting your first backpacking trip is both exciting and fun. By learning the basics, picking the right gear, planning your trip, and staying safe on the trail, you’ll be ready for your adventure. Remember to pack smart, get fit, and follow Leave No Trace rules to protect nature.

Gaining confidence through practice and learning from each trip will make you a better backpacker. Whether you go alone or with friends, it’s important to start slow, keep improving, and enjoy the journey. So, put on your hiking boots or shoes, pack your backpack, and get ready for the trails and use this guide to backpacking for beginners whenever you need to help prepare.