Backpacking, hiking, mountaineering, and trekking are words that have become quite popular in the last decades and are sometimes used interchangeably, even though don’t have the same meaning. Here are some common definitions of trekking along with some details on what trekking means for Trekking Days.
What Is Trekking?
According to the definition provided by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, trekking is a journey, in particular one that is arduous. Similarly, Britannica Dictionary defines trekking as a long and difficult journey, especially one that is made by walking. This definition suggests that you are trekking when traveling on challenging terrains.
In other words, dictionaries use trekking in reference to activities that can involve hiking, camping, or backpacking. To get a better idea about the differences between these concepts, let’s take a look at how the other terms are defined.
Trekking vs. Hiking
According to the Merriam-Webster’s definition of hiking, it is an activity which takes the form of a long walk and it is realized for pleasure or exercise. Brittanica agrees, as it defines hiking as a long walk, in particular for pleasure or exercise.
Based on these definitions, it appears that trekking something involves hiking but they are two different concepts. A long walk is not the same as a long journey. More so, treks can be uncharted trails while the term hike is more commonly used for pre-charted paths. In addition, if we are to stick with the definitions above, trekking can be used to refer to journeys on uncharted paths that don’t take place on foot while this is not the case for hiking.
Trekking vs. Backpacking
A concept that is somewhat related to both hiking and trekking is backpacking. Merriam-Webster gives two definitions for backpacking: 1) as an act of carrying supplies on one’s back, especially in the context of hiking and camping; 2) as a piece of equipment designed for use while being carried on the ack.
Brittanica defines backpacking as a recreational activity which involves hiking while carrying clothing, food, or camping equipment. It also notes that backpacking is no longer a term strictly used in outdoor contexts but for all sorts of travel activities that involve traveling with a backpack on you.
Trekking As Defined by Trekking Days
All the definitions of trekking assume that to trek is to take a challenging journey, which, of course, may well involve exploring uncharted places. Trekking Days expands this definition and assumes that trekking is any activity which involves exploring places that are new to you, to many, or to everyone.
Does this definition imply that each time you go to a new place you are trekking? It doesn’t. You are trekking only when you feel that you are exploring a place that is uncharted, be it physically or situationally.
Let’s Start a Trekking Day
Now that you know what trekking is all about, you may well be ready to decide whether it is time to trek the world.
