Checklist for Backpacking

Separating itself from day hiking, backpacking involves longer routes and more time out in the wilderness. While similar in many ways (backpacking and hiking both utilize trails and nature paths), backpacking includes a hike that is done over many days and carrying a backpack with tents for camping purposes. Anybody planning overnight stays in the wilderness will also want to review our camping lists as well, although much of the essential gear you’ll need for staying outside overnight will be covered here.

Click here  to download a printable PDF shopping list.

Backpacking Essentials

There are certainly many items that one can stock in their pack for a backpacking trip, but depending on your route, your experience levels, and your planned activities during your hiking excursion, you may need to bring some or all of these essentials along for the journey. Remember, backpacking is like a more rigorous and longer version of your standard day hiking trip, so you’ll want to bring everything from your hiking gear load as well as additional items to support the longer route.

Backpacking Basic Gear

Beyond the essentials, many will also opt to stock for a variety of additional hiking activities that may happen along the route. Those who plan to backpack for days, weeks, or months at a time will obviously need to plan for larger gear loads than those who may only seek to explore for a few days at most. When backpacking with a group, you can likely divvy up many shared items among the members so that no one person is carrying the bulk of the party’s goods.

Clothing

Depending on the season you’re hiking in, you may be able to pack a lighter load. Many will opt to bring weather-related items (like rain gear) in their pack while simply dressing in the layers they plan to use for the day. As the temperatures rise and activity warms the system, hikers can then shed these layers quickly and easily to adjust for comfort. Because backpackers are more likely to experience a range of weather conditions as opposed to the hiker who only takes a brisk trail walk for the day, you’ll want to bring all of these items along in your pack.

First Aid/Emergency Gear

As with any outdoor activity, you’ll want to ensure that you always bring your first aid essentials along for the trip. Hiking and backpacking can expose adventurers to the elements as well as unfamiliar territory, so pack to prepare for accidents or emergencies that may occur.

A good rule of thumb is to leave your trip itinerary with a friend as well as in your vehicle (under your car seat) in case you become disoriented, lost, or injured. In this manner, not only will your friends have your information, but emergency personnel can also have quick access to documents should they come across your vehicle.