This backpacking checklist is a complete resource.
This list will make sure you’re well prepared for any backpacking trip you take.
You might think, “Holy crap, that’s a thorough list!” haha.
And yes it is.
That’s because I want to make sure you have everything you need and don’t forget anything important.
Your Complete Backpacking Gear Checklist
– Updated 2/9/2020
Table of Contents
The Ten Backpacking Essentials
For your safety, survival and basic comfort:
2. Sun protection
3. Insulation
- Jacket, vest, pants, gloves, hat (see Clothing, below)
4. Illumination
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire
- Matches or lighter
- Waterproof container
- Fire starter (for emergency survival fire)
7. Repair kit and tools
- Knife or multi-tool
- Repair kits for stove, mattress; duct tape strips
8. Nutrition
9. Hydration
10. Emergency shelter
Beyond the Ten Essentials
- Backpack
- Daypack or summit pack
- Pack cover
- Tent, tarp or bivy sack (with stakes, guylines)
- Tent-pole repair sleeve
- Footprint (if desired for tent)
- Sleeping bag
- Stuff sack or compression sack
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow or stuffable pillow case
- Whistle (plus signaling mirror)
- Multifunction watch with altimeter
- Trekking poles
- Ice axe
- Meals
- Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
- Energy beverages or drink mixes
- Stove
- Fuel
- Cookset (with pot grabber)
- Dishes or bowls
- Utensils
- Cups (measuring cups)
- Bear canister (or hang bags for food)
- Nylon cord (50′ for hanging food)
- Backup water treatment
- Collapsible sink or container
- Packable lantern
Clothing
Warm Weather
- Wicking T-shirt (synthetic or wool)
- Wicking underwear
- Quick-drying pants or shorts
- Long-sleeve shirt (for sun, bugs)
- Sun-shielding hat
- Bandana or Buff
Cool Weather
- Wicking long-sleeve T-shirt
- Wicking long underwear (good sleepwear)
- Hat, cap, skullcap, balaclava or headband
- Gloves or mittens
- Rainwear (jacket, pants)
- Fleece jacket or vest, and pants
Footwear
- Backpacking boots, Hiking boots, or hiking shoes suited to terrain
- Socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares
- Gaiters
- Sandals (for fording, in camp)
Various Personal Items
- Hiking camera, DSLR Camera or helmet cam
- Extra memory cards
- Binoculars
- Permits
- Route description or guidebook
- Field guide(s)
- Outdoor journal and pen or pencil
- Credit card; small amount of cash
- Earplugs and eye shade
- Toilet paper
- Sanitation trowel
- Hand sanitizer
- Insect repellent
- Bear spray
- Toothbrush and/or toiletry kit
- Biodegradable soap (and shower bag)
- Quick-dry towel
- Cell phone / satellite communicator / 2-way radios
- Personal locator beacon
- Post-hike snacks, water, towel, clothing change
- Trip itinerary left with friend and under car seat
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