The Gear House

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Planning for an upcoming backpacking trip? Not sure what kind of gear you should take with you? Use the list below as an outline for things to consider carrying on your trip, but be sure to adjust the list to fit your needs and include the gear that will be necessary for your trip.

When you are putting together your personal packing list for a backpacking trip, experience is your best guide to go by. Backpacking is probably the only activity where the efficient packer is rewarded with a light pack and the over packer gets punished. Below is just a guide/outline for items that you should consider taking on a backpacking trip.

The Basics
Backpack
Sleeping bag
Tent
Sleeping pad

Eating and Drinking
Water bottles - at least two 1-liter bottles
Stove and fuel
Cook kit
Matches and lighter
Insulated mug
Lightweight bowl and spoon
Utility knife

Clothing
Boots - waterproofed and broken in
Camp shoes - sandals, tennis shoes, moccasins, etc
3 pairs of socks - wool or synthetic, not cotton, sock liners optional
1 long underwear bottoms - synthetic
1 long underwear top - synthetic
1 pair shorts
Underwear - optional of course
Rain jacket and pants
Wool or fleece sweater or jacket
Wool or fleece hat
Liner gloves
Wool or fleece gloves or mittens
Bandanna

Acccessories
Compass
Maps and guidebooks
Small flashlight or headlamp
Lip balm
First aid kit
Pack cover or trash bag
Toilet paper - keep in zip lock bag to protect from liquids
Plastic shovel for bathroom breaks
Extra plastic zip lock and trash bags
Bear bag cords

Optional Items
Trekking poles
Baseball hat
Sunglasses
Small brush/comb
Book
Journel and pen
Camera and film
Ground cloth