Activity 2: Essay: Explain briefly but substantially the following.

a. Explain the difference between mountaineering and backpacking.

Backpacking is hiking while carrying things that you need, such as clothing, food, and camping
equipment in a backpack. It requires skills in camping, hiking, food prep, and first aid.

Mountaineering is a set of activities that involve ascending mountains. Mountaineering requires all the
skills in backpacking as well as technical climbing and the use of equipment like helmets, ropes,
harnesses, karabiners, and protective climbing equipment.

b. In participating in mountaineering and backpacking activities, list down the things that you

have to consider, from the most important to least important. Justify your answer.

1. Health/ Physical Condition- I should always consider if I am physically fit to perform the activities
demanded by mountaineering and backpacking. I should then prepare my body and make sure
that I am well before going on such activities
2. Location- I should make sure that the location of my activity is not only fun and interesting but
also safe and appropriate. Research some routes and create a route plan. The altitude should be
considered so as not to get altitude sickness. Possible weather conditions should also be
considered. Determine too if permits are required.
3. Traveling companion- Am I going alone or with a pair or group? Your backpacking/
mountaineering buddies should be as prepared as you are. In choosing a route, I should make
sure that it matches the skills of the people in your group.
4. Equipment and Necessities- Some gear needed by each individual include a backpack, clothing,
mountaineering boots, and ice axes while there is also stuff that can be shared among the group
like tents, ropes, stoves, fuel, water filters, and climbing hardware.
5. Share itinerary- Always leave a copy of your trip itinerary with someone back at home. The
itinerary should include details about what mountain and route you’re climbing, where your car
will be parked, where you’ll be camping, and what time you expect to return home. Discuss with
the person who has the itinerary how long you’re comfortable with them waiting before
contacting authorities if you’re overdue.

c. Given the chance to participate in an outdoor activity, specifically backpacking and

mountaineering. Which would you prefer and why?

As someone who is still a newbie in these kinds of activities, I would prefer backpacking over
mountaineering because it requires less technical skill but is still as much fun. It also requires a lesser
budget than mountaineering which uses technical equipment. I am also interested in testing and
improving my flexibility and critical thinking skills as I go on through this adventure. Moreover,
backpacking can ease me from the stresses of daily life and can help me form or strengthen good
relationships with my backpacking buddies.