Essential Gear For Backcountry Hiking
Key to an enjoyable and safe backpacking adventure is remembering what to pack. The following list includes essential items for multi-day hikes from summer through early winter. Important is to tailor your layering system according to the season and expected weather conditions.
Route Finding
Map (in protective cover)
Route description / guide book
Compass / handheld GPS
Headlamp (extra batteries)
Clothing / Footwear
Base layer: wicking top / bottom
Mid layer: light to mid-weight fleece
Insulating layer: down jacket
Outer layer: breathable shell jacket
SmartWool microweight shirt (sleeping)
SmartWool microweight bottom (sleeping)
Socks (plus spare for sleeping)
Hiking pants / shorts
Underwear
Beanie / sun hat
Gloves / mittens
Boots / hiking shoes (extra laces)
Fluids
Wide mouth water bottle
Collapsible water carrier
Water treatment / filter
Cooking / Food
Stove
Gas canister / fuel
Cigarette lighters / matches (in waterproof container)
Stackable cook set
Spork
Bowl
Mug
Quick drying towel
Pocket knife
Meals including for extra day
Energy bars and snacks
Tea and coffee
Packing
Backpack
Stuff sacks
Ziploc storage bags
Plastic bags
Shelter / Sleeping
Tent, fly and stakes (additional guy lines)
Tent pole repair tube / tent patch
Footprint
Sleeping bag
Inner sheet
Sleeping pad
Pillow
Medical / Survival
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Fire starter
Needle, dental floss and safety pins
Parachute cord
Whistle
Signal mirror
Personal Items
Money / ID
Smartphone (charged)
ABC watch
Sunglasses (in hard case)
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Toilet paper
Camera and memory cards
Trekking poles
Notebook and pencil
Tell Someone
Leave an itinerary with a friend
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