Lightweight backpacking tents tend to have very thin built-in groundsheets that, depending on the type of ground you are camping on, need a little extra protection.Buying tip: You can get tent specific footprints. Its nothing fancy. Do it on your trip and itll make packing next time so much easier. So having to put on or take off one layer is much easier than having to change a complete outfit. Consider COVID-19 transmission risks when planning meal spots, Download the PDF version of this checklist. Here you'll find blog posts about some of my favorite backpacking and travel adventures. Whichever you choose, ensure that you know how to use them! for any emergencies or booboos. It uses less battery power and prevents you from dazzling your camping buddies.What I use: Biolite Headlamp 200More info: A guide to headlamps for camping and outdoor use, This optional item will turn into a backpacking essential for some people! Youll also need to understand if there are specific nasties that youll need to filter out in the area youll be hiking in (heavy metals, pesticides, viruses etc).What I use: MSR Trailshot Pocket-Sized Water Filter or Grayl Ultralight Purifier BottleMore info: A guide to water filters for backpacking, Youll need to carry at least 3 litres of water per day, or more in hotter climates. The next consideration should be if your bag is insulated with down or synthetic materials. Most of the trips I take are on the shorter side (one to two nights), and for these trips Im looking for comfort and dont mind carrying a little extra weight, since Im usually not covering tons of miles in just a single weekend. Then always my wool base layers, one warm pair of socks for sleeping, and a pair of leggings or hiking pants (I love the fit of these sustainable ones). Beginner backpackers and seasoned vets will agree that your exact backpacking essentials kit will change over time, and most of us are still refining our gear list each time we go. As mentioned, it will evolve over time and will also be slightly different for each trip. Combo it with a small, quick-drying travel towel and cleaning up your dishes is a breeze.Buying tip: Opt for an organic liquid soap made with natural ingredients, and a towel that packs down super small.What I use: Sea to Summit Airlite TowelMore info:A guide to towels for backpacking and camping (on the way!). Tent - out of the three tents I own I usually opt for the MSR Hubba Hubba for weekenders for its nice balance between being light weight and livable. If you prefer a dishwashing tub, some innovative and packable designs make doing the dishes easy. If youre shopping for a new headlamp, pay careful attention to the battery life in the product specs. Opt for a headlamp with a rechargeable battery versus disposable batteries for a more versatile headlamp. Not only does it provide comfort but it also helps to protect you from the cold ground. This checklist of backpacking essentials will help you remember every important item. I cover backpacking food and snack ideas more in this blog post. As a gear junkie, Im on an endless mission to try new things and fine tune my own setup. The below overnight hiking checklist is designed to be used directly on the webpage. This backpacking essentials checklist is meant to be a general guideline to give you a baseline of necessary gear. Disclaimer: We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Some of my favorites for the trail are sour candy, protein bars, and trail mix. Note what you do and dont use so that on your next trip you can tailor your backpacking checklist to suit you and your needs. And of course, youll constantly need to adjust what you wear and pack depending on the location, trip duration and conditions. Lens cleaner pen - being out in the elements means a lot of dust or water. Click on the X to cross the item off the list (stuff you dont need to take). As well as protecting it from the weather, it also protects it from accidents or water bottle leaks inside your backpack. We recommend bringing some biodegradable soap along and a packable microfiber cloth to dry the dishes. We have partnered with Mountaineers Books for the warehousing and distribution of Appalachian Trail Conservancy Publications. When I first started backpacking, I also started out with just the essentials, buying used and borrowing things. However, youll need to ensure that you consume enough calories to replace what you have burned, at the very least. There are many plastic spork options available, but metal or titanium utensils will last you much longer. If a flashlight is all you have at the moment, its certainly usable. waterproofing, patching, and spring cleaning. 75 Hiking Terms and Trail Terminology That Every Hiker Should Know, Things to do in Cornwall: 9 Alternative Adventures, Review: Scarpa Rush Trail GTX Hiking Shoes. Less than 10 miles roundtrip, the Duck Lake is the perfect overnight backpacking trip to experience classic Sierra lakes and mountains. Trekking poles - Ill bring these light poles if the terrain is particularly rocky or uneven, or if Im trying to hike longer distances than usual in a day. Some are prepackaged, so all you have to do is add boiling water. But long battery life is very helpful on multiday excursions. Trekking poles, for example, are a backpacking essential for many hikers. Your source for comprehensive hunting reviews and buying guides. When planning, make sure to think beyond mealtimes. The first part of your sleeping setup to decide on is if you want to use a backpacking tent, tarp, bivy sack, or hammock. Learn how the ATC stands up for the Trail and its surrounding landscape and how you can help. However, for something truly versatile and practical, a multi-tool will come in more handy and will have endless uses for more than just preparing food.Buying tip: Opt for a folding knife, for packability, with a lockable blade for safety, if possible.What I use: Victorinox Climber Pocket KnifeMore info: A guide to knives for camping and backpacking, Some backpackers need little more than a good old Spork for their backpacking cuisine. Likewise, if youre relatively new to multi-day hiking, you may find that you pack everything on this overnight backpacking list but dont use some of it. Let me know in the comments! GPS devices need charging up and maps should ideally be stored in a waterproof case. MSR makes very durable dromedary bags for backpacking. And you may want to consider borrowing or hiring gear until you are ready to invest in the more expensive items. Synthetics are bulkier, but they still insulate when wet and dry much faster. But if you want to use something more substantial then consider a small dry bag or a reusable silicone bag. Sleeping bag - this will depend on the season and anticipated night time temperatures, but I will usually opt for a warmer bag rated for 21-30F even in the summer (youll never regret being too warm in the mountains!). That is what I love most about backpacking, it truly is empowering to see how little you need in your life to thrive in the outdoors. Whether you're looking to spend 100 nights on the trail or stick to a tight budget, we've found the best backpacking tents of 2022. Lens cap bungees - Ive dropped too many lens caps in rock crevasses and streams to count, so you can bet I have one of these lens cap keepers on each lens. Even if you know exactly what you need, it takes away that niggling doubt at the back of your mind and reassures you that youve nailed it! Notice that we recommend a headlamp, not a flashlight. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media and analytics partners. Dont be afraid to rewear clothes, socks, sports bras, etc! Preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses, Reporting incidents and positive COVID-19 cases, First aid kit including disposable face masks and nitrile gloves. Packing layers of clothing also makes things more comfortable because temperatures vary throughout the day. The Sea to Summit X-Set 21 Cookset and the Stanley Camp Cookset are both excellent examples of this kind of setup. Planning, packing, and embarking on a trip as a beginner can be intimidating. As long as you have some variation of the essentials, youre ready to go backpacking! If you want to keep your backpacking essentials organized in your pack, using stuff sacks or organizational bags can be very helpful. But for most backpackers, a great tip is to stuff some clothing into a stuff sack for a sufficient pillow for the trail. Like clothing, your personal hygiene needs are very specific to you. Receive a FREE guide to sustainable outdoor gear and clothing when you sign up to our newsletters. Its important to understand the availability of water where you predominantly hike and whether you can top up as you go or if youll need to fill larger bottles to last for longer.Buying tip: Consider whether youre filtering for just you or for your whole party. This long-handled spoon is a necessity for not getting food on the back of your hand while eating. Were here to protect it. Snacks - snacks are crucial for long hikes, and I must admit I am a food-driven individual. On the flip-side, you may already be at capacity when it comes to your weight and carrying limit. Theres lots of great stuff out there and you can read how to get hold of it in our guide to used outdoor gear. Do you have a favorite item to bring backpacking? First aid kits should be refilled and updated, if needed, and repair kits should have all the necessary components to patch up, tie together or sew up your gear, should it fail. Depending on the type of trip, there are several items that I might want pack. Theyll make your time on the trial so much more enjoyable than if you have substandard shoes or boots on. So if you expect the low for the night to be 30 degrees, pack a 20-degree bag or lower. However, generic footprints work just fine providing they are the right size. ), Pie Iron Pancakes Recipe (Dairy-free And Low FODMAP), Best Walks in Cornwall: 14 Stunning Coastal, Circular and Woodland Routes. And read our article on the benefits of trekking poles to see what you might be missing out on. If youre just starting out in the overnight hiking world then the below information is designed to give you the basics of what to look for when choosing new gear. Sometimes, packing extras, like a camera, book or journal, may seem like a bit of a luxury. No matter the shelter youve chosen, a sleeping pad is a must. Here Im sharing everything I pack for a weekend backpacking trip. There are many options of camp stoves, ranging from very simple and small, like the proven MSR Pocket Rocket, to cooking systems like the Jetboil Mini Mo and multifuel liquid stoves that can function well even in bitterly cold weather. This compact tool helps keep my lens clean and clear. Having a packing list will help guide you in the right direction and highlights the extra gear and clothing that youll need to buy, hire or borrow to have the most comfortable and safe trip possible. If you bring a water bladder along with your water bottle, bring at least a 2L bladder, although a 4L bladder is ideal. A sleeping bag is one of your most important pieces of camping gear. You can also rent from some visitor centers and outdoor gear stores like REI. Want some outdoor inspiration inyourinbox? Others, however, sleep perfectly soundly snuggled up on spare clothing or a down jacket. Depending on the area youre traveling to, you may need to keep your food away from bears. For overnight trips, there are ways to get around packing a stove. Backpacking life often means you should expect to get a little dirty (and maybe a little smelly). Check out our article on thebest backpacking stoves to learn more. Its a good idea to pack some even if you arent expecting your cycle to start. The submit button will be disabled until you complete the CAPTCHA. She cant get enough of being outdoors whether thats lounging around the campfire cooking up a feast, hitting the trail in her running shoes, or attempting to conquer the waves on her surfboard she lives for it. Minimalism on the trail may be a learned skill, but it will save you pack weight without compromising necessary creature comforts. Beyond your stove, youll need a cooking pot, mug, and utensils. For many years Ive not bothered using a backpacking checklist. Other than the length of your trip, backpack size is determined by how bulky your gear is. I have a full-size one for 2+ people and a mini one for individual/overnight use, and I like that these are clear so you can see inside. Sign up with your email address to receive occasional updates of new blog posts. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. This way, you can inspect your gear and make sure you have everything on your list. Finally, dont forget other personal items like keys, identification cards, your wallet, permits, and your phone. Pillow - as a side sleeper, this super light and compact inflatable pillow is essential for getting a good nights rest in the outdoors. And dont forget to allow for altitude and the cold, which both use up more gas than usual.What I use: MSR Pocket Rocket 2More info: A guide to lightweight stoves for backpacking, Depending on your cooking preferences, cookware can range from single pots intended for cooking and eating out of, to full mess kits with bowls, cutlery and a couple of pots and pans. Mug - what is a morning in the backcountry without a hot drink in hand? Contact me here and say hi :). The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a 501c3 organization. If you pack it in, pack it out! Ouch. The sleeping bag you need depends on the climate and weather conditions. Just be sure to check theyre in your tent bag before you set off!Buying tip: Be sure to LOVE your tent. Each trip and each person has different needs for footwear. For an overnight trip, it may be possible to pack a bladder of water to last for the length of the trip. As always, all opinions are my own. We didnt include a pillow on the list. For an overnight trip, you should be able to get by with a backpack that holds 30-50 L. If youre backpacking for an extended trip (3-5 days), then you will need a larger pack (50-70 L). We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. A simple rain cover is fine, or you can bring a large trash bag. This one has 400 lumens, and I also bring an extra set of batteries (these rechargeable ones) just in case. Ive been using an older, discontinued MSR version for years. This is mostly affected by the climate or weather conditions, but also by the duration and difficulty of the expedition. There are loads of filtration and purification systems available for camping and backpacking. Having a reliable navigation system should be included on this list. Comfortable, durable and protective hiking footwear should be your top priority. But keep in mind that youll likely need to bring a battery pack for recharges in the field when on longer trips. Here are some of my favorite snacks, breakfasts, lunch, and dinner meal ideas for your next backcountry trip, Outdoor gear is not cheap, so here are a couple of tips Ive found that have helped me save a little on gear. See my main gear page for my current favorite womens hiking clothes. I felt that each trip was always so different to the next that no single backpacking packing list would always have me covered. However, for most people, a headlamp makes your life much easier during backpacking trips. This way, if something happens to you while youre gone, someone will be able to alert the authorities right away, and theyll know where to start looking. Other than that, also bring items like a trowel for digging catholes or wag bags to pack out your waste. Classic Therm-a-Rest Z Lite pads are an ideal and affordable sleeping pad choice, as you dont have to worry about air leaks. Thank you for supporting the work I do to keep creating meaningful content like this for you! A night or two without a pillow will soon help you make the decision!Buying tip: If you hate the idea of an inflatable pillow then opt for a hybrid camping pillow that combines foam with air.What I use: Zenbivy Light Camp PillowMore info: A guide to camping pillows, Also known as a ground sheet, tent footprints are designed to protect the base of your tent. As most of our food is packaged, especially for backpacking, be sure to follow Leave No Trace guidelines. Map/GPS - I use my phone with several different apps. Whether on the footpath itself or on Capitol Hill, obstacles arise every day that threaten the Appalachian Trail. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture easily. Still, with only a few dishes, you should be able to get by without the use of a dishwashing tub. Having a camp stove and fuel makes cooking after a long day of hiking quick and easy. That said, the one thing that needs careful consideration is dealing with bathroom stops in the wilderness. Then you have the more minimalistic stoves like a biofuel stove that burns biomass or alcohol stoves for a lightweight heat source. Check out our list of thebest water filters here. Dont think your eyeballs cant burn too, because Ive seen it! Alternatively, you may want to upgrade your existing gear, in which case you may find it helpful to click through to our gear guides and reviews. Toiletries - for me this means sunscreen, chapstick, contact solution and case, mini toothbrush and toothpaste, and a little bit of lotion. Check out some of the bestselling gear at Backcountry this week and save on gear for your next adventure. Hiking boots or trail shoes should be a priority when planning a backpacking trip. Utensils - as much as I love to cook at home, to avoid doing dishes, and mostly out of laziness 99% of the time Ill go with dehydrated meals in the backcountry. Its the most expensive item youll buy so try a bunch first to make sure you know what you want.What I use: MSR Hubba Hubba NXMore info: A guide to backpacking tents, If low weight and warmth is key then opt for a sleeping bag filled with down, which is also super packable. If you cant hand off a paper copy, at least contact a trusted friend or family member and tell them where you plan to be in as much detail as possible, including when to expect you to return. Backpack - for all trips, short and long, I use my trusty and comfortable Osprey Aura 65 since it can expand or pack down. However, you dont want that to be your only available option. Still, part of the delight of a crisp morning outdoors is a hot cup of coffee and a warm breakfast. Your clothes should be moisture-wicking materials. Sleeping pad - I like this one that doesnt require blowing for inflation, and it is more comfortable and less crinkly than my ultralight option. Theyll also help to keep you safe and prevent injury. Guy lines and stakes usually come as standard with backpacking tents. Both have pros and cons, but the main difference is that down tends to be lighter and easy to pack down small with a higher price tag. If you want to make life as easy for yourself as possible, print out the below backpacking PDF. When it comes to navigation, youll need to pack a compass and an appropriate map at the very least. Alternatively, weve put together aprintable backpacking checklist PDF to tick and cross with a good old-fashioned pencil! There are so many fantastic backpacking food options available. With all the will in the world, youre bound to forget to note down extras you didnt pack if you leave it until after your trip. The essential gear items that you bring on any backpacking trip will almost always be the same. Plus, it makes hiking in early mornings or late at night much safer. They protect you from rocks and carry you over varying terrain. As simple as the basics might seem, you should always be prepared for anything Mother Nature might have in store for you! For an overnight trip, its easy to plan for food. ), A small bottle of biodegradable soap is not only great for washing your dishes, but it also doubles as a body wash for you too! Once youve figured that one out, youll need to try a bunch of shoes or boots on to find a pair that works for your feet. Click here for a list of all my current favorite outdoor gear. These are just fine if you are eating boil in the bag meals. Remember, all the additional layers for a winter trip will add more bulk to your bag than a standard summer outing. Please enable it for the best experience. The most common is a gas canister stove which is lightweight, easy to use and packs down very small.Buying tip: Ensure you have enough fuel for your intended cooking plan. There are probably things on the list that you know you wont need. Dont forget to consider your cooking needs, and also whether you can collect and filter water on the trail.Buying tip: Consider a combination of bottles and a reservoir. Your clothing and layering system should also include jackets. 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You may choose to bring an inflatable pillow for your sleeping arrangement. Make sure your shoes are broken in before your hike. Our team of experts is bringing you best camping gear reviews and buying guides. We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors. You dont need to spend a ton of money to get backpacking, I wrote a blog post here on how to save money on gear. The rest is just fluff. Aim for something under 2.5kg for a 2-person tent. However, if in doubt, its always better to pack it and not need it than to not pack it and need it. Or click on the box to tick the item once youve packed it. There are many options available, from insulated to collapsible. Other safety and personal items that can make life easier on the trail include a knife, a gear repair kit, sunscreen, a sun hat, and insect repellent. Many hikers now use their smartphones for this. But if they add enjoyment to your trip then theres little point not taking them. But before you invest everything into getting your hiking clothing right, ensure you have happy feet. There are only a few backpacking essentials on the personal hygiene list, so theyre easy to keep in one place. Feel free to use it as a complete packing check list or to get ideas and inspiration for deciding what to bring for a backpacking trip of your own. Knife - Ive used the same Spyderco knife for 10+ years! We go "Off the Map" to find new roads and epic adventures. Backpacking checklist for overnight hiking trips#, A guide to backpacks for trekking and multi-day hiking, A guide to headlamps for camping and outdoor use, A guide to lightweight stoves for backpacking, A guide to cookware for camping and backpacking, A guide to mugs for camping and backpacking, A guide to knives for camping and backpacking, The Best Dry Bags For Watersports, Backpacking and Biking, 10 Adventure Documentaries You'll Not Want to Miss, Womens Hiking Boots: The Best for Female Feet in 2019, Campfire Cooking Equipment: An Essential Guide to Wild Feasts, Fjllrven Samlaren: A Sustainable Collection, 12 Benefits of Trail Running (And Why You Should Try It! Water container - I use a 3L reservoir since I find having a tube encourages me to drink more water while hiking, but a Nalgene is also a budget-friendly and light option. If there are bears in the area where youre backpacking, bring bear spray as well. The above backpacking checklist is designed as a guide to ensure you dont forget to pack the essentials. And to a degree, this is true. Seek out a bag rated at least 10 degrees colder than the anticipated low temperature. The lightweight options tend not to retain heat that well.Buying tip: A mug with a handle is useful for clipping it to the outside of your pack, however, theyre not so packable if you want to store it inside your pack.What I use: Sea to Summit Cool Grip X-TumblerMore info: A guide to mugs for camping and backpacking, A good knife is a backpacking essential that can also be a lifeline in emergencies. Bottles are great for cooking and refiling whilst reservoirs hold higher volumes and are easier to drink from as you hike.What I use: Platypus Big Zip Reservoir and Primus Trailbottle TritanMore info: A guide to hydration bladders and a guide to hiking water bottles, The food you choose to eat on the trail is highly dependent on your personal preferences. The more you go backpacking, the easier it will be to get your clothing and layering systems right. No one likes blisters. This is where having a backpacking checklist comes in very handy. If you are new to overnight hiking trips then taking a printout of the backpacking packing list with you on your hike can be super useful. For most skilled backpackers, keeping a bag dry isnt too tough, so the light weight, compressibility, and long life of down bags makes them a top choice. This one week road trip heads through several prime landmarks in Norcal and Oregon. A simple emergency backpacking kit should include a first-aid kit, whistle, firestarter, waterproof matches, emergency shelter, and a multitool. I did write a blog post about what I packed for the High Sierra Trail, which is what I would typically pack for longer trips up to a week long. Ive amped mine up with moleskin, blister bandaids, sleeping pad patch kit, a small nub of duct tape, and an emergency blanket. First aid kit - I always pack a small first aid kit (did you know medical kits are FSA eligible? Try them out and learn how to use them to see if theyre for you. The type and number of jackets you bring depend on the climate and weather conditions. A sealable bag is ideal to prevent moisture and odours from getting into the rest of your stuff. We use cookies to personalize content, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Camp sandals - after a long day of hiking, wearing sandals is such a luxury to take a break from boots or to go swimming in. Light, compact, and durable. Those 6 days in remote backcountry absolutely blew me away. You can pack clothing according to weather forecasts, but layering is the best way to prepare. There are a few different types of sleeping pads available providing varying levels of comfort and warmth.Buying tip: For 3-season backpacking look for a sleeping pad with an R-value of 1-3. Bear hang set up: 60 feet rope & bag for all edible and scented items. While its tempting to think of a sleeping pad as only a comfort item, it provides much-needed insulation and warmth while you sleep. That said, I cant tell you the number of times Ive either forgotten to pack something (usually relatively minor). Bring plenty of snacks to fuel you as you hike. Three important things to remember about backpacking clothing and shoes are as follows: When youre backpacking, you dont need to change your pants and shirt every day. The below list of backpacking essentials is a guide to help you pack right for your trip. You can also add your own items to this. If youre going to be in a cold, wet environment, consider waterproof shoes or gaiters to protect yourself. A few days without extras may not be a negative and may push you into being more present and engaged with your surroundings. The final tip we will leave you with is to print out two copies of your itinerary the night before you leave on your trip, even if its only an overnight adventure. These should include basics like a toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and any prescription medications. Check out our list of the best sleeping pads on the market. It frees up your hands if you have to set up or cook in the dark. Be sure to do your research and bring either a bear canister or bear bag when necessary. As you can see Ive put a cleaned out, resealable cheese packets to good use!

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