Backpacking Gear List

 Are you ready to take the plunge and turn your day hiking hobby into a multi-day excursion? If you're new to backpacking, here's a list of gear you might need:*

 

 

BASICS                             

â–¡ Backpack

â–¡ Sleeping Bag

â–¡ Sleeping Pad

â–¡ Shelter: Tent, Bivy, Tarp, Other

â–¡ Tent Stakes

â–¡ Tent Footprint/Ground Cloth

â–¡ Trekking Poles

â–¡ Water Bladder/Hydration System

â–¡ Water Bottle

â–¡ Water Filter

â–¡ Water Purification Tabs

â–¡ Head Lamp

â–¡ Extra Batteries

â–¡ Insect Repellent

â–¡ Sunscreen

â–¡ Pocket Knife/Multi-Tool

â–¡ GPS

â–¡ Map

â–¡ Compass

â–¡ Identification

â–¡ Permits 

â–¡ Repair Kit

â–¡ Bandana

â–¡ Watch

 

 

COOKING GEAR & FOOD

â–¡ Cooking Pot

â–¡ Utensils

â–¡ Stove

â–¡ Fuel

â–¡ Mug

â–¡ Bowl

â–¡ Scent-proof Bags

â–¡ Food Sack to Hang Food

â–¡ Paracord to Hang Food

â–¡ Dish Cloth

â–¡ Food

â–¡ Snacks

â–¡ Electrolyte/Hydration Mix or Tabs

 

 

TOILETRIES

â–¡ Biodegradable Soap

â–¡ Towel

â–¡ Toothbrush/Paste

â–¡ Toilet Paper/Baby Wipes

 

 

CLOTHING

â–¡ Boots & Insoles

â–¡ Socks (Wool or Synthetic; No Cotton)

â–¡ Gaiters

â–¡ Camp Shoes/Sandals

â–¡ Shorts or Convertible Pants

â–¡ Pants

â–¡ Long Sleeve Shirt

â–¡ Short Sleeve Shirt

â–¡ Long Underwear (Wool or Synthetic; No Cotton)

â–¡ Rain Jacket/Pants

â–¡ Fleece or Wool Pullover

â–¡ Gloves

â–¡ Sun Hat

â–¡ Fleece or Knit Cap

 

 

SURVIVAL & FIRST AID

â–¡ First Aid Kit

â–¡ Waterproof Matches or Lighter

â–¡ Tinder

â–¡ Duct Tape

â–¡ Whistle

â–¡ Signal Mirror

â–¡ Blister Treatment

â–¡ Emergency Blanket

â–¡ Medication/Prescriptions

â–¡ Tweezers

â–¡ Pliers

â–¡ Comb (for removing cholla cactus)

â–¡ Poison Ivy Wipes

 

 

OPTIONAL/SEASONAL/REGIONAL GEAR

â–¡ Bear Canister

â–¡ Bear Spray

â–¡ Swimsuit

â–¡ Insulated Parka

â–¡ Camera

â–¡ Pens/Paper

â–¡ Field Guides

â–¡ Star Finder

â–¡ Hammock

â–¡ Camp Chair

â–¡ Hand/Foot Warmers

â–¡ Pillow

â–¡ Instep Crampons

â–¡ Cell Phone

*This list is not exhaustive and is intended as a guide only.