Gear List for Backpacking

By Jessica Marie

Planning a backpacking trip? Having the right gear is important so that you can make it out and back in the same condition (maybe in need of a shower). Backpacking offers a chance to get further and deeper into nature than you can in a day hike. Spending each day in nature and taking a long break from civilization and our phones is a freeing and calming experience. Here is our list that we check off before hitting the backpacking trail.

What You'll Need

Backpacking Pack (you may want to also bring a smaller pack for day hikes if you will be doing so)
Backpacking Tent (size needed for party)
Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad
Food in bear-proof containers (if bears are in the area), we take freeze dried and dehydrated meals to save weight
If bears are present, you may want bear spray
Water, water bottles/containers, and water purifiers
Camp Stove (propane, matches)
Cooking utensils (pot, pan, lid)
Dishes for everyone (three in one silverware is best). You’ll also need soap to wash the dishes.
A small or preferably collapsible water container for dishes, and a towel
Hiking Boots and Camp Shoes (easier to slip on/off shoes to wear around camp)
Clothes to wear for each day of the trip (fresh under garments for each day and at least one extra outfit in case of water or other damage). Fresh socks for each day are very important. We suggest always carrying rain gear. Warm base layers like Vapor Barrier can be helpful if there is a chance of cold, especially if there will be rain or wet conditions.
Toilet paper and handheld shovels for burying waste (a zip lock bag if carrying toilet paper back out)
Map, GPS, and The 10 Essentials
Solar lantern (we hook it to the outside of the pack to charge during the day so that it is ready for night but we won’t need to carry extra batteries)
I use trekking poles or a walking stick
Binoculars
Normal daily hygiene needs such as hand sanitizer, toothbrush and paste, menstrual products (if applicable), medications such as prescription or allergy, etc. Glasses. In addition, you may want sunscreen and bug spray. We also always carry moleskin to put on rubs to prevent blisters.
Extras that can be lifesavers: repair kits for tents, sleeping bags, or air mattresses. Duct tape. Radios.
Bring any needed permits or papers. An ID or a copy of your ID, a cellphone (and solar charging bank), cash, the car keys.
Back at camp you will want some fun things to do that don’t weigh much. If your hobby is plants, fungi, birds, stars, journaling, reading, card games, singing or music, photography, etc. bring any materials you may need to fulfill said hobby.

Conclusion

That is our gear list that we check off before we head off to go backpacking. We hope you have a fun year of camping, hiking, and backpacking. Exploring new places in new ways. Have fun and stay safe!