The first part of your sleeping setup to decide on is if you want to use a backpacking tent, tarp, bivy sack, or hammock. For many years Ive not bothered using a backpacking checklist. Support us! But for most backpackers, a great tip is to stuff some clothing into a stuff sack for a sufficient pillow for the trail. 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. Make sure your shoes are broken in before your hike. Backpacking life often means you should expect to get a little dirty (and maybe a little smelly). Always a crowd favorite. 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. No matter the shelter youve chosen, a sleeping pad is a must. Want some outdoor inspiration inyourinbox? There may be a few things on the below hiking trip packing list that you may not have thought of, or even known about! Still, with only a few dishes, you should be able to get by without the use of a dishwashing tub. The submit button will be disabled until you complete the CAPTCHA. 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. There are loads of filtration and purification systems available for camping and backpacking. If you pack it in, pack it out! However, generic footprints work just fine providing they are the right size. The sleeping bag you need depends on the climate and weather conditions. No matter your experience level, using a list can help you remember all the vital equipment. Separating items in pouches or bags can make gear more accessible, organized, and compact. As you read, you may realise that what you already have is perfectly sufficient, at least for your first few trips. Hammock - if I know there will be lots of trees and down time, I love this ultralight hammock to kick up my feet and relax near camp. Dont be daunted by this long list. This compact tool helps keep my lens clean and clear. Like clothing, your personal hygiene needs are very specific to you. Camp chair - an alternative to the hammock when I know Ill want to be relaxing a lot but not sure if there will be trees to hang a hammock. Packable daypack - if my weekend route involves a base camp for more than one night and doing a day hike with a lighter pack, Ill pack this super light and compact backpack that fits in the palm of my hand. Other than the length of your trip, backpack size is determined by how bulky your gear is. Read through our favorite expert-compiled gear for thru-hiking, backpacking, ultralight backpacking and more. Bug repellent/head net - depending on the season and location, mosquitos can really put a damper on any trip. Joey is based in Cornwall, UK, and runs Cool of the Wild. Our team of experts is bringing you best camping gear reviews and buying guides. Map/GPS - I use my phone with several different apps. 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. As with many of the items on this backpacking packing list, the extras you pack will alter as your needs and wants evolve the more trips you take. That said, the one thing that needs careful consideration is dealing with bathroom stops in the wilderness. We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. 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. I like to treat my clothes with Permethrin, and also bring bug repellent and even a head net for the more extreme cases (early season destinations with water). MSR makes very durable dromedary bags for backpacking. 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. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. We didnt include a pillow on the list. Seek out a bag rated at least 10 degrees colder than the anticipated low temperature. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a 501c3 organization. Whichever you choose, ensure that you know how to use them! You may choose to bring an inflatable pillow for your sleeping arrangement. The above backpacking checklist is designed as a guide to ensure you dont forget to pack the essentials. Check out our article on thebest backpacking stoves to learn more. I love something really light that can clip onto the outside of my pack like these Teva sandals. First aid kit - I always pack a small first aid kit (did you know medical kits are FSA eligible? As simple as the basics might seem, you should always be prepared for anything Mother Nature might have in store for you! However, you dont want that to be your only available option. We've found the best backpacking sleeping bags for every use and budget. Sleeping bag liner - Im a cold sleeper, so this liner not only gives me a couple degrees of warmth, but it also protects my bag from any oils, lotions, or dust on my clothes or body that could seep into the sleeping bag over time. 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. 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. These are by no means necessary, but they are items that I occasionally pack on shorter trips and greatly enjoy having. Its a good idea to pack some even if you arent expecting your cycle to start. Your clothes should be moisture-wicking materials. 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. The essential gear items that you bring on any backpacking trip will almost always be the same. As a gear junkie, Im on an endless mission to try new things and fine tune my own setup. Other than that, also bring items like a trowel for digging catholes or wag bags to pack out your waste. 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! Things like trail mix, power bars, and fruit such as oranges and apples are all great options. A collection of resources for planning a safe, healthy, and responsible experience on the Appalachian Trail. Opt for a headlamp with a rechargeable battery versus disposable batteries for a more versatile headlamp. The clothing you should bring depends on the climate and current weather conditions. 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. A sleeping bag is one of your most important pieces of camping gear. Check out some of the bestselling gear at Backcountry this week and save on gear for your next adventure. Stove - honestly Ive found that most stoves work to my liking regardless of their price. Packing layers of clothing also makes things more comfortable because temperatures vary throughout the day. 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. There are many options available, from insulated to collapsible. That said, I cant tell you the number of times Ive either forgotten to pack something (usually relatively minor). Alternatively, weve put together aprintable backpacking checklist PDF to tick and cross with a good old-fashioned pencil! For silverware, a spork is a standard option. The next consideration should be if your bag is insulated with down or synthetic materials. You need to trust that they will support you the whole way. Ill never go back to pumping water ever again. Thank you for supporting the work I do to keep creating meaningful content like this for you! 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. Plus, it makes hiking in early mornings or late at night much safer. 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. This is where having a backpacking checklist comes in very handy. I either bring a collapsible one or if I have more room, this insulated one. 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. These will usually have one utensil, one cooking pot with a lid, and a mug that all pack back down into the size of the pot. Be well-prepared for the night ahead by determining the appropriate bag temperature/comfort rating. You can also rent from some visitor centers and outdoor gear stores like REI. There are only a few backpacking essentials on the personal hygiene list, so theyre easy to keep in one place. Dont think your eyeballs cant burn too, because Ive seen it! When youre packing for your overnight backpacking trip, lay out all of the essential backpacking items on the floor before you pack them. 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. Read more details about each category of backpacking gear: The size backpack you use depends upon the duration of your trip and also how packable the rest of your gear is. Let me know in the comments! Even if youre only out for one night, bring fresh batteries along. There are many plastic spork options available, but metal or titanium utensils will last you much longer. We recommend bringing some biodegradable soap along and a packable microfiber cloth to dry the dishes. It frees up your hands if you have to set up or cook in the dark. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media and analytics partners. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture easily. However, smartphones always have the potential to die or break on the trail. Your clothing and layering system should also include jackets. However, for most people, a headlamp makes your life much easier during backpacking trips. I finally hiked the High Sierra Trail, a trip I've been dying to do for years! If youre going to be in a cold, wet environment, consider waterproof shoes or gaiters to protect yourself. Even though you wont use one often, they play an important role in your backcountry safety. 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. Classic Therm-a-Rest Z Lite pads are an ideal and affordable sleeping pad choice, as you dont have to worry about air leaks. Or worse, had ongoing anxiety that Ive failed to pack something major once its too late to repack. So if youre planning a simple overnight trip, you can expect to wear what you had on the first day. Depending on the area youre traveling to, you may need to keep your food away from bears. If its hot and dry, maybe trail running shoes will fit the bill. With minimal cookware, dishwashing becomes a breeze. This isnt an ultralight backpacking list, but it ensures you have all the items you need for an overnight trip in the backcountry. They protect you from rocks and carry you over varying terrain. Hat/sunglasses - youre more prone to sunburn at higher elevation, so be sure to pack protection. 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. Ensure that the food you plan to cook is quick and easy so as not to use up too much gas or fuel.Buying tip: If you can spare the weight and space, a yummy treat can change everything at the end of a long day on the trail.What I eat: I tend to compile my own meals or use Right On Trek meals if I need something quick and easy.More info: A guide to backpacking food. A simple emergency backpacking kit should include a first-aid kit, whistle, firestarter, waterproof matches, emergency shelter, and a multitool. We go "Off the Map" to find new roads and epic adventures. GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Were here to protect it. No one likes blisters. 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. Less than 10 miles roundtrip, the Duck Lake is the perfect overnight backpacking trip to experience classic Sierra lakes and mountains. for any emergencies or booboos. Opt for something lightweight and comfortable with good storage options.Buying tip: Ensure that you get the right size backpack for your bodyWhat I use: Osprey Tempest 50 BackpackMore info: A guide to backpacks for trekking and multi-day hiking, A lightweight tent is important for hiking trips, however, it should be stormproof and liveable too. While its tempting to think of a sleeping pad as only a comfort item, it provides much-needed insulation and warmth while you sleep. Check and double check your emergency equipment before you pack it. Disclaimer: Your backpacking food shouldnt gross you out, and you need to bring enough! 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. What do you need for a backpacking trip? No two trips are ever the same and theres most certainly things youll need on one trip that are just pointless taking on another. 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. These items arent commonly regarded as necessary as the items above are, but these are items that I will always pack for my shorter trips since they make my time in the backcountry comfortable and more enjoyable. However, youll need to ensure that you consume enough calories to replace what you have burned, at the very least. Click here for a list of all my current favorite outdoor gear. There are probably things on the list that you know you wont need. Emergency or survival kit items are the most frequently forgotten items for most backpackers. Each trip and each person has different needs for footwear. First up, decide on which style of hiking footwear is for you. 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! Guy lines and stakes usually come as standard with backpacking tents. Along with the packing list we provided, well break down how to choose appropriate gear for your overnight camping adventure. waterproofing, patching, and spring cleaning. The bladders have a high capacity, so its great for groups and even doubles as a camp sink when hung from a tree. Still, part of the delight of a crisp morning outdoors is a hot cup of coffee and a warm breakfast. So take emergency gear seriously and add it to your backpacking essentials list. 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. But if you want to use something more substantial then consider a small dry bag or a reusable silicone bag. And some hikers hate them! Be sure to do your research and bring either a bear canister or bear bag when necessary. But if they add enjoyment to your trip then theres little point not taking them. Its also a useless item if you dont have spare batteries or a battery pack to charge it up when needed.Buying tip: A red light setting is super useful. Here are some of my favorite day hikes among the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona that are short enough to squeeze in on any trip to the area! So having to put on or take off one layer is much easier than having to change a complete outfit. Clothes - for a weekend alpine trip I will typically pack a fleece jacket, down jacket, and rain jacket for outerwear. Comfortable, durable and protective hiking footwear should be your top priority. 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 use cookies to personalize content, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Those 6 days in remote backcountry absolutely blew me away. Ive been using an older, discontinued MSR version for years. 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!). Microfiber towel - a packable and quick dry towel is a must if I can get in the water. See my main gear page for my current favorite womens hiking clothes. Theres lots of great stuff out there and you can read how to get hold of it in our guide to used outdoor gear. Learn how the ATC stands up for the Trail and its surrounding landscape and how you can help. So if you expect the low for the night to be 30 degrees, pack a 20-degree bag or lower. Whether you take a full wash bag full of stuff or go feral for a few days is entirely your choice. Sign up with your email address to receive occasional updates of new blog posts. Its nothing fancy. Sometimes, packing extras, like a camera, book or journal, may seem like a bit of a luxury. Even if theres no rain in the forecast, plan to bring something to cover your pack. What I wear: Scarpa SL Active Hiking BootsMore info: A guide to hiking boots for women, a guide to hiking boots for men, a guide to lightweight hiking shoes. Knife - Ive used the same Spyderco knife for 10+ years! A few days without extras may not be a negative and may push you into being more present and engaged with your surroundings. When it comes to navigation, youll need to pack a compass and an appropriate map at the very least. Do you have a favorite item to bring backpacking? Here Im sharing everything I pack for a weekend backpacking trip. For an overnight trip, it may be possible to pack a bladder of water to last for the length of the trip. This one has 400 lumens, and I also bring an extra set of batteries (these rechargeable ones) just in case. Mug - what is a morning in the backcountry without a hot drink in hand? Trowel & toilet paper - I use this ultralight one and pack some toilet paper and a couple ziplocs to pack out any used toilet paper. Depending on the type of trip, there are several items that I might want pack. Check out the rest of my favorite camera gear here. If youre only cooking simple meals then keep your cookware set simple and if your stove and fuel fit inside it, then all the better!Buying tip: Consider a more substantial cookware set with a variety of options that you can then pick and choose from to suit your trip and party size.What I use: Sea to Summit X-Set 32More info: A guide to cookware for camping and backpacking, If the cooking set you choose doesnt come with a mug then you may want to consider bringing one. If you bring a water bladder along with your water bottle, bring at least a 2L bladder, although a 4L bladder is ideal. 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. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. 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. The more you go backpacking, the easier it will be to get your clothing and layering systems right. However, if in doubt, its always better to pack it and not need it than to not pack it and need it. Be sure to know the regulations for your area. Contact me here and say hi :). On the flip-side, you may already be at capacity when it comes to your weight and carrying limit. And of course, youll constantly need to adjust what you wear and pack depending on the location, trip duration and conditions. A simple rain cover is fine, or you can bring a large trash bag. These should include basics like a toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and any prescription medications. What to eat while backpacking? Score!) Light, compact, and durable. Then you have the more minimalistic stoves like a biofuel stove that burns biomass or alcohol stoves for a lightweight heat source. Since then its been a continuous journey of upgrading my gear and trying out lots of different things, and thats just part of the fun! And read our article on the benefits of trekking poles to see what you might be missing out on. Remember, all the additional layers for a winter trip will add more bulk to your bag than a standard summer outing. If youre more likely to be in wet conditions and weight is less important then consider a synthetic sleeping bag.Buying tip: Sleeping bags come in different sizes. A simple zip lock bag works well. Its also worth considering buying second hand gear. If you have never used one before, test it out before your trip. Theyll also help to keep you safe and prevent injury. Keep up-to-date with the latest alerts and conditions on the Appalachian Trail. If you dont want to carry around disposable menstrual items, you can use a menstrual cup. Mummy bags are recommended for backpacking because they provide more warmth and are easier to pack down. To help you manage this, youll need a trowel, toilet roll stored in a waterproof bag, a sealable bag to store used toilet paper in and hand sanitiser. Bring plenty of snacks to fuel you as you hike. You can cook these using old-fashioned fire and coals, but there are fire restrictions in many areas. Another great reason to turn to a backpacking checklist before you head to the hills is if youre just starting out hiking. The final piece of the sleeping setup is a sleeping pad. While extra lumens can be nice, you dont need a ton of light for most backpacking, as youre moving slowly or working close to your body. Even if there is no rain in the forecast, its better to be safe and pack at least a light waterproof jacket. Aim for something under 2.5kg for a 2-person tent. If you want to keep your backpacking essentials organized in your pack, using stuff sacks or organizational bags can be very helpful. Just be sure to check theyre in your tent bag before you set off!Buying tip: Be sure to LOVE your tent. Here you'll find blog posts about some of my favorite backpacking and travel adventures. Minimalism on the trail may be a learned skill, but it will save you pack weight without compromising necessary creature comforts. Some folk carry the bare minimum and go to great lengths to save weight; sawn off toothbrushes and all! Try to research the materials and read product reviews. If youre shopping for a new headlamp, pay careful attention to the battery life in the product specs. Try them out and learn how to use them to see if theyre for you. Camera clip - this nifty clip attaches to my backpack strap and allows me to hang my camera from my shoulder so that I can hike and shoot at the same time, which is something I often do. The below overnight hiking checklist is designed to be used directly on the webpage. The GearJunkie gear guide to mountain, road, and gravel bikes, bike accessories, apparel, and more. Over the past ten years, Ive really been able to fine tune exactly what works for me. 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. ), Pie Iron Pancakes Recipe (Dairy-free And Low FODMAP), Best Walks in Cornwall: 14 Stunning Coastal, Circular and Woodland Routes. 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!). People are so creative and have such well thought out systems. This process can be done through various day hikes or just wearing them throughout daily activities. Snacks - snacks are crucial for long hikes, and I must admit I am a food-driven individual. And some experienced campers love the power and versatility of a small flashlight. You can also add your own items to this. These are the items you should have in their most basic form for any trip into the backcountry. 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. 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To keep things minimal, consider using a compact cookset that packs down together. Most importantly, know the climate and terrain. The type and number of jackets you bring depend on the climate and weather conditions. Theyll make your time on the trial so much more enjoyable than if you have substandard shoes or boots on. Bring an extra pair of underwear and socks, though. 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. Looking for a water filter? 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. This one week road trip heads through several prime landmarks in Norcal and Oregon. Bear can - California and many other mountainous regions in North America require the use of bear canisters in some areas. 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. Give one to a friend or family member and leave the other one in your car. 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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. Having a reliable navigation system should be included on this list.