This backpacking gear checklist list is intended to be more than complete -- you will not need everything on this list. In fact, it is best to pack a minimal amount of backpacking gear and leave luxury items at home. Be sure to research the weather and climate of your destination and adjust your packing accordingly.
Backpacking Essentials
- Backpack
- Tent or tarp with poles or guy lines
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Camp Stove and lighter
- Food
- Water bottle and water purification system
- Headlamp
- Sun protection
- Extra layers of clothing
Camping Shelter
- Tent or Tarp
- Tent poles, stakes, and / or guy lines
- Ground cloth or tarp
- Sleeping bag
- Waterproof stuff sack for sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Camp pillow
- Mosquito netting
Clothing for Backpacking
- Sandals (select a pair that will work for wading streams)
- Zip-off convertible pants/shorts
- Thermal underwear top and bottom
- Lightweight down or synthetic jacket
- Fleece jacket or vest
- Fleece pants
- Raincoat
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Moisture-wicking t-shirt
- Hiking socks (an extra pair is recommended)
- Camp socks
- Down booties
Backcountry Kitchen
- Food (dehydrated or quick cook food items are recommended)
- Stove
- Fuel
- Pots
- Pot grabber
- Utensils
- Utility knife or multi tool
- Lighter and /or matches
- Water bottle (an extra water bottle is recommended)
- Water filter or other purification system
- Biodegradable soap
- French Press
- Coffee Cup
- Dishes or bowls
- Bear canister or hang bags and ropes for food storage
First-aid and Safety
- Wilderness First Aid Kit
- Cell-phone, two-way radio or satellite phone
- Emergency tarp (reflective blanket)
- Whistle
- Watch (with altimeter and barometer)
- Duct tape
Navigation
- Map
- Compass
- GPS (optional)
- Wilderness Permit
- Field Guide
- Guidebook
Sun and Weather Protection
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Lip balm
- Hat
- Mosquito head net
- Insect Repellant
- Bandana or neck gaiter
Personal Items
- Camp towel
- Toilet paper
- Small shovel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Personal hygiene items
- Headlamp
- Vitamins
- Prescription medicines
- Prescription glasses
Other Optional Backpacking Gear
- Trekking Poles
- Energy Food (bars and drink mixes)
- Bandana
- Gaiters
- Binoculars
- Digital Camera
- Waterproof pack cover
- Journal
- Book
- Backpacker guitar or other instrument
- Ice axe
- Crampons
- Rope
