How to Pack for Backcountry Snowmobile Adventures
Snowmobiling has only increased in popularity as a winter sport in the past few decades, which means that more and more people are taking to slopes and trails when the snow hits. If you’re one of those intrepid souls, you may be interested in going on a backcountry snowmobiling trip. This is a great way to get the most out of your snowmobile and see some beautiful, pristine winter landscapes.
It’s important that you prepare yourself and your snowmobile thoroughly before you go, though. As a leading snowmobile dealer in Maine, Richardson’s Boat Yard is primed and ready to offer you our best advice for packing your snowmobile to take on all your upcoming backcountry adventures!
Packing Your Sled & Backpack
Planning how you want to pack your snowmobile and your backpack can help you effectively make use of limited space to bring the most important items. You’ll need your backpack to hold all your survival supplies in case you have to abandon your snowmobile, for example, but you can leave a few supplies on your snowmobile like extra fuel and parts. Anything that is meant for the snowmobile should remain with it, while anything that helps you should go in your bag.
What To Bring
The amount of supplies you take along with you will depend on how long you plan to be gone and what weather conditions are like where you’re going. These lists are a good breakdown of what you should pack in each category.
Emergency Supplies
If you become stuck in the wild backcountry, you’re going to need several items to survive the cold and snow. Make sure to carry snowshoes, a shovel, hand warmers, a fire starter, a tarp for shelter, a hatchet, extra snowmobile tools like spark plugs and another drive belt, rope, a space blanket, a headlamp, an emergency radio and a saw. These items will help you get through an emergency situation until help arrives.
Protective Gear
Keeping yourself insulated and warm in below-freezing temperatures should be your main priority when you pack your gear. Dress yourself in a helmet with a visor, preferably one that has anti-fogging and UV protection to keep you from being blinded by sun on snow. Thick wool socks, snow boots, snow pants or a snow suit, insulated gloves and waterproof outerwear are other essentials. You can invest in a balaclava to keep your face and neck warm or wrap a scarf around your mouth and neck. Carry lip balm and a petroleum-based lotion to protect your skin and lips from chapping in high winds.
Navigational Tools
Having the proper tools to navigate will help you avoid getting lost in the backcountry, particularly if you’re riding in a new area. A paper map of the area (perhaps laminated to protect it from snow and ice), a compass and binoculars are all practical items to have along with your usual GPS unit, just in case it breaks down or fails.
First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is a necessity for any adventure, and snowmobiling in the backcountry is no different. Pack bandages, gauze, ointments, creams, painkillers, stomach medications and your normal prescription medications, along with a pair of tweezers, some surgical scissors, carbohydrate-laden snacks to raise blood sugar, athletic tape and anything else you think you might need.
Looking to buy your very own snowmobile? We carry a full inventory of snowmobiles for sale, along with snowmobile gear so you can get yourself thoroughly equipped. We also offer snowmobile parts and service to help you get your snowmobile in good condition before you travel. Richardson’s Boat Yard serves the cities of Auburn and Portland, Maine, with our locations in Standish and Windham.