What a backpacker packs - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "What a backpacker packs," is a perfect example of a straightforward, definition-based clue often found in early-week crosswords. It's designed to be accessible and provide a solid entry point into the grid. Let's break down how to approach this simple yet satisfying clue.

Clue Analysis

The clue asks for a collective noun that describes the items a backpacker would carry. The key elements are "backpacker" and "packs." This immediately brings to mind the specialized equipment needed for hiking and camping, such as a tent, sleeping bag, stove, and other essentials. The answer is the general term for all this equipment. The word we're looking for is GEAR, a common synonym for equipment, especially in the context of outdoor activities and sports.

Thinking Approaches

A solver's first step would be to brainstorm the specific items a backpacker carries. You might think of:

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Cooking supplies
• Water filter
• First-aid kit

The next step is to find a single word that groups all these items together. "Stuff" or "supplies" are possibilities, but they are less specific. The term most commonly used in the outdoor community and beyond is "gear." If you had a few crossing letters, like the 'G' or the 'R', the answer would likely become obvious very quickly. This is a classic "what-you-see-is-what-you-get" clue with no wordplay involved.

Background Context

The word "gear" has its origins in Old Norse, originally referring to "harness" or "equipment." While it's widely known for its mechanical meaning (as in the cogs of a machine), its use to describe personal equipment for a specific activity is extremely common. You'll hear phrases like "fishing gear," "climbing gear," or "camera gear." In the context of backpacking, it encompasses everything from the pack itself to the smallest tent stake. This usage has become so widespread that it's a standard part of the English vocabulary.

Conclusion

"What a backpacker packs" is a clean, direct clue that rewards common knowledge. It serves as a great example of how crossword constructors use simple, definitional clues to balance out more complex wordplay elsewhere in the puzzle. Recognizing these straightforward clues is a key skill for any solver looking to improve their speed and confidence.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This refers to the collective equipment for a specific activity.
2. Hint 2: Think of items like tents, sleeping bags, and cooking stoves. This is the general term for all of them.
3. Hint 3: It's a synonym for "equipment" or "tackle."
4. Hint 4: This word is often used in outdoor and sports contexts, like "fishing ___" or "climbing ___."