Backpacking hitting the trail with nothing but the essentials of life on your back—is the ultimate outdoor experience. Consider how long you want to travel, how isolated the place is, and what the weather prediction has in store for you when deciding what to bring on a backpacking trip. In general, the more clothes, gear, food, and water you’ll need, the longer and/or more remote the trip and the more adverse the weather. If you’re new to backpacking, be sure you read Best Backpacking Gears before you go.
Shelter
Tents are the most user-friendly alternative since they provide the finest blend of liveable area and safety. In warmer weather below tree line, hammocks can be a pleasant alternative, but they may take more time for setup and tree selection, as well as additional equipment like as a tarp to protect against rain or an under quilt to defend against cold. Tarps are a lightweight and space-saving choice, but they do not provide pest protection and need time and thought to pitch properly. Before you begin, make a list of every pole and stake.
Sleep System
Traditional mummy bags have a better warmth-to-weight ratio than rectangle sleeping bags and provide greater covering than blankets. Quilts can give significant weight savings if you pack a beanie or removable hood for warmth, but they can be difficult to get used to. All sleeping bags have temperature ratings that show the temperature range that the bag is intended to manage. In warmer areas, such as sections of the American Southwest, a higher comfort rating is acceptable. Because your bag is only as good as its pad, ensure sure it has the proper insulating R-value for the lowest predicted temperature.
Water Storage and Filtration
Every filter or purifier will eventually clog, regardless of type; always have the equipment needed to clean your filter. If you want to use a UV purifier, carry a mesh pre-filter for sediment if you don’t expect pristine alpine water. If freezing conditions are expected, place your filter in a leak-proof bag and store it in your sleeping bag overnight—if it freezes, it is no longer safe to use.
Stove and Cookware
Canister stoves are ideal for fast boiling water in order to rehydrate food, cleanse water, and produce hot beverages. For simpler wilderness cooking, use a stove with a larger burner head and a non-integrated pot. Many travelers prefer canister stoves because they are easier to operate, although liquid fuel stoves can be more efficient in low temperatures and at higher elevations, and they can accept several types of fuel.
Food and Snacks
Personal physiology, speed, and trail conditions all play a role in determining how much food to pack, while 2,000 to 5,000 calories per day is a good starting point for many people. Packing calorie-dense items such as nut butter, cheese, and olive oil will assist you in losing weight. Pack extra food than you think you’ll need when in doubt.
Apparel
- At least two pairs of socks
- At least two pairs of underwear
- Shorts, pants, or other bottoms such as a skirt or kilt
- T-shirt
- Long-sleeve shirt (for insects and sun protection)
- Insulating midlayer, such as a fleece or light puffy
- Packable down jacket
- Sunglasses
- Top and bottom baselayers (optional)
- Light gloves or liners (optional)
- Rain pants (optional)
- Hardshell jacket or rain poncho
- Warm beanie
- Sun hat
Footwear
Trekking footwear selection is one of the most subjective decisions a hiker can make—there are fits and alternatives for every hiker and trekking style available. Mid-cut or high-top boots are a superior choice for stability under big loads, tough terrain, and improved longevity. Trail running shoes allow you to go quicker (a pound on your foot equals five pounds on your back) and breathe more easily. Lighter shoes, depending on how much weight you’re carrying, can be more comfortable over long distances in general. Some trekkers choose to hike in sandals for their breathability, light weight, and ease of water crossings, but they must deal with the risk of freezing feet and stubbed toes.
Electronics
On a backpacking trip, most hikers can get by with a tiny power bank to charge their phone and headlamp. A solar charger is the greatest (although sluggish) alternative for long excursions with no replenishment. Keep batteries (always lithium, never temperature-sensitive alkaloid) in your sleeping bag at night—they lose power faster as the temperature decreases.
Personal Hygiene
- Trowel
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- Bug repellent
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- WAG bag (if required)
- Menstrual productsand pack-out bags (if not using a menstrual cup)
- Female urination device (optional)
- Pee rag (optional)
The environment dictates how you do business in the wilderness. Moving 200 feet from a water source, route, or camping location, digging a six- to eight-inch deep hole, properly marking your position, and carefully cleansing your hands is the simplest option. A WAG bag may be necessary in particular conditions, like as deserts or tundra, or in protected and popular parks. Also, tampons are usually a good idea to have on hand.
Navigation
- Map, compass, and the knowledge to use both
- GPS device (optional)
- Navigation app, like Gaia GPS(optional)
Always keep a topographic map and compass on hand, and be familiar with how to use them. GPS gadgets and smartphone applications are useful tools, but they might lose power or fail. Only a few more ounces and a fast navigation training are required for peace of mind.
Repair and Emergency
- First aid kit
- Knife or multitool
- Bear spray (in grizzly country)
- Duct tape
- Sleeping pad patch kit
- Prescription medication
- Moleskin
- Waterproof matches/ firestarter
You may easily purchase a first-aid kit that includes everything you need (and more), or you can just grab a waterproof bag and raid your medication cabinet or drugstore for a low-cost option. Duct tape is one of the most versatile all-purpose items you may have on hand, and it can aid with medical situations as well as gear maintenance. Patch kits for sleeping pads are especially necessary if you sleep on hard ground.
