Convincing the wife to backpack

**brianb** · 03-15-2015, 22:19

My buddy just sent me this pic. He and I backpack often, and the kids join us regularly. My wife likes to join us also, when it's not cold. Unfortunately his wife doesn't share the interest.

As things are warming up, he convinced her and the kids to sleep out in the backyard tonite. First day of the kids spring break.

We've got a bet going on whether she'll make it through the night. Last I heard a raccoon found their campsite interesting. Look by the tree.

Wish her luck.

**TallPaul** · 03-16-2015, 00:14

Fingers crossed.
And that racoon had better not underestimate a momma.

**matthew2000tx** · 03-16-2015, 00:58

looks fun. What a great way to start spring break (I'm an elementary teacher)

**Sgt_Shasta** · 03-16-2015, 01:41

Best bet is to start her off slow. Start with a car camping overnight type of thing, with plenty of creature comforts around, and then up the ante from there. Turn it into an overnight hike in, camp, hike out the next morning kind of thing. Eventually, she'll be begging you to take her on 3-5 day trips! You have to introduce her to it gradually though, and don't be afraid to carry more weight than she does to keep her spirits up until she enjoys the "suck" as much as we all do...

Haha

**Bannerstone** · 03-16-2015, 05:16

Another thought about getting the wife to come around is to plan a short day hike with full gear in good weather as an introduction/rehearsal. I would leave the kids at home and just focus on her, make date out of it, at some point stop, set up camp, prepare a lunch meal, discuss various topics then tear down and head back.

This is how I've introduced some other newbs to hiking/backpacking.

David

**brianb** · 03-16-2015, 07:49

Talked to my buddy this morning. She gave up around 2:30 and came in. She said she just couldn't get comfortable in the hammock. Blasphemy, I know. Side sleeper syndrome. I think he had her in a sleeping bag in the hammock, which likely didn't help. Her request I think.

Thanks for the other advice. We're planning a trip with three families going out, so we'll get another chance. The other wives there can lend their advice. With that many folks it will be a part hammock part ground dweller camp site. The dads will be acting as Sherpas, so I'll lug in her favorite adult beverage to help her sleep a little better.

Brian

**cougarmeat** · 03-16-2015, 12:07

I find for myself, the first night always feels a little weird. even switching between a gathered end and a bridge. So if she can practice by resting in one at home for a some time in the afternoon that would help the muscles learn to relax. Also have to make sure there's enough sag and awareness of the diagonal position to remove calf ridge lines. It also helps to buy a box of those green foil covered after dinner chocolate mints and put one on the hammock pillow.