Packing for a backpacking trip can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance comfort, safety, and keeping your pack light all at the same time.
Whether you’re camping alone or dispersed camping with friends, it’s essential you have everything you need so you can be prepared for your trip.
You don’t want to be caught out in the wilderness without the right gear.
Our backpacking checklist below will help you stay organized, so you don’t forget any important items at home!
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Core Gear
At a very minimum, your core gear should consist of:
- Backpack (40-70 liter capacity)
- Shelter (tent, hammock, etc.)
- Tent stakes/rain fly
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
Your sleep setup is important for helping you stay rested on the trail.
Clothing
For clothing, remember to bring:
- Extra layers
- Clean socks
- Rain jacket/poncho
- Hat/gloves (for cold-weather camping)
Cooking/Food
If you plan on cooking meals on the trail, you’ll need to bring:
- Jetboil/camp stove (unless building a fire)
- Fuel
- Lighters/matches
- Cooking pot
- Utensils
- Food (MREs, snacks, etc.)
- Bear bag and rope (in jurisdictions or national parks where bear safety rules are in effect)
Water
Water is a necessity, just make sure you don’t weigh yourself down with it. You’ll need:
- Water bladder
- Lifestraw/water filter
- Pan for boiling water (can double as your cook pan)
Learn how to find safe drinking water in case of an emergency.
Navigation/Safety
Be prepared for any issues that could arise on the trail. You should always bring with you:
- Map of the trail (can be found at the local visitor stations)
- Compass
- Headlamp
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Bandaids
- Knife
- Axe (for chopping good firewood)
- Tent light
Lights are important when backpacking, so make sure you have multiple sources.
Miscellaneous
A few miscellaneous items you may want to bring are:
- Fire starter
- Emergency blanket (extremely lightweight)
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Portable charger
- Trekking poles
- Rain cover for your backpack
A telescopic fire bellows can be a lightweight but powerful fire building tool for backpackers.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best backpacking setup is the one that works best for you.
Your gear may vary based on season, weather, or the length of your trip, but eventually you will find a base setup that covers your needs in all conditions.
If you are trying to keep your pack as light as possible, many of these items are luxury items that you could probably leave at home or downsize, but for me, this is the perfect checklist.
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