This is a basic backpacking list; it lists almost everything that I put in my pack (and on my person) for a 2+ night trip. It’s largely adapted from Ian’s list which is available here. I leave out the food guidance, because that’s the thing I tend to over-pack the most of.
General guidance:
- Cotton clothing is evil; avoid at all costs (this includes underwear). Good synthetics are well worth their cost, particularly the moisture wicking variety.
- Layers are the key to regulating your temperature; pack just enough to stay dry & warm. I prefer my rain-jacket + fleece + lightweight shirt as the ultimate top combo, and hiking pants + synthetic long-underwear for my legs.
- The “group gear” can be shared across at least two/three people.
- I’m an over-packer: my packed weighed in at 55lbs on my last trip which was about 10lbs too heavy. :/ This list is my attempt in trying to trim that down.
- Italicized items are things I consider optional, but nice to have.
Group Gear
| Item | Description |
| Tent | Tent, Rain Fly, Ground Steaks, Poles |
| Water Filter | |
| Water Purification Tablets | Iodine Tablets, useful as a backup or your primary water cleaning solution |
| Camp Stove | |
| Fuel for Camp Stove | |
| Cook Gear | Mainly you need a good pot. |
| Rope | For hanging bags and other misc. things; I like parachute cord |
| Compass | … and the ability to use it. |
| Duct Tape | |
| Maps | Topographical & ‘guide’ maps |
| Trowel | |
| Toilet Paper | |
| Matches & Lighter | Waterproof |
| Dromedary Bag | Useful to carry clean, filtered water back and forth to camp. |
| GPS/Altimeter | For those geeky campers. |
| Field Guide | Ian swears by his; I’ve never used one but it’s not a bad idea. |
| Playing Cards, Books | Boredom avoidance on rainy trips. |
| Flask | To be filled with motivation. |
Clothing
| Item | Description |
| Underwear | 2 pair, synthetic |
| Pants | 1-2 pair, zip-off short preferred |
| Short-sleeve Shirts | 2 shirts, I pack 3 because of my hydration efficiency |
| Long-sleeve Shirts | 1-2 shirts, base layer |
| Fleece Shirt | Essential to stay dry/warm |
| Fleece Pants | I like to have these to stay warm/comfy at night |
| Warm Hat | It gets cold at night, yo |
| Gloves | Depending on the weather. |
| Rain Jacket & Pants | Gore-Tex is my friend. I need a good breathable fabric to remain dry inside. |
| Belt | A strong utility. |
| Socks | 2-3 pairs, wool or wool synthetic. I like SmartWool brand. |
| Sock Liners | Silk preferred. Helps save your feet from blisters. |
| Boots | |
| Sandals | For water crossings & camp. |
| Hat | Keep the sun off your neck/face. |
| Sunglasses | |
| Watch | I use the clock on my camera. |
| Swimming Suit | If your hike affords a lake or two. |
Toiletries & Miscellaneous
| Item | Description |
| Toothbrush | |
| Toothpaste | |
| Deodorant | Stinky people find this optional. |
| Sunscreen | |
| Insect Repellant | Deet preferred. |
| Glasses & Case | |
| Contacts & Case | |
| Contact Solution | Re-wetting drops are nice to have. |
Personal Gear
| Item | Description |
| Sleeping Bag | |
| Sleeping Pad | |
| Backpack | |
| Pack-cover | To keep the rain off your pack. |
| Knife | Or MultiTool. |
| Water Bottle(s) | At least one, for pumping water. |
| Platypus/CamelBac Water Sack | This plus your water bottle should carry at least 100oz |
| Bowl | |
| Cup | |
| Spork | |
| Head Lamp / Flashlight | |
| Camera | |
| Small Tripod | Useful for those group shots. |
| Trekking Poles | |
| Camp (Pack) Towel | Synthetic, quick dry shammy |
| Handkerchiefs | Useful for handling hot pots, cleanup, etc. |
| Stuff Sacs | I’m a big fan of waterproof stuff sacs: they help compress clothing and keep gear separated. You need at least one for cloths and one for food. I like “Sea to Summit” evacdry Sacks for my cloths. |
| Zip Lock Baggies | 2-4 Large, 2-4 Small |
| Large Garbage Bags | Work to hold food, as pack covers, etc. |
| Prescriptions/Vitamins | Or other personal pills. |
| Feminine Hygiene Products | For all the ladies out there. |
First-Aid Gear
| Item | Description |
| Ibuprofen | Do not leave without it. |
| Tylenol/Aspirin | |
| Decongestant | |
| Imodium | |
| Hydrocortisone | |
| Benadryl | |
| Antiseptic Pads | |
| Alcohol Pads | |
| Antibiotic Ointment | |
| Ace Bandage | |
| Ankle Braces | For the weak-ankled set. |
| Inhalers | For the asthmatic set. |
| Mole Skin | |
| Band Aids | |
| Small Scissors | Useful for dressing wounds. |
| Gauze Roll | |
| Wound Dressing | |
| Small First-Aid book | A good field guide should cover first-aid |
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