Here we have a list of recommended items to be packed for almost any backpacking trip. Please understand that this is just starting point, and should be adjusted for the location and time of year of your trip. This list will work best for a mild climate such as the South East or southern Appalachian mountains, but can be easily modified for alpine or northern climates.
It is a good idea to keep things such as your spare clothing and sleeping bag in their own waterproof stuff sacks or compression bags. Also, keep in mind that several items on this list can be shared or divided up making more room in your pack for personal items, or just simply making your pack lighter. Items such as your tent and cooking utensils can be split up among two or three hikers. Likewise, in a small group you may only need one water filter or stove.
Required Items
- Backpack
- Rain cover or liner
- Food (always pack a little extra)
- Water
- Appropriate clothing for the conditions of your hike
- Well fitting, supportive footwear
- Map and compass (with the knowledge to use them)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Pocket knife or small multi-tool
- Fire starting kit (lighter or waterproof matches, fire starting material/tinder)
- First Aid kit (this should include personal medications and water purification tablets)
- Tent or other shelter (bivy sack, hammock w/ trap, etc.)
- Sleeping bag
- sleeping pad
- Stove
- Fuel
- Cooking pot/pan
- Cup or mug with lid
- Bowl/plate
- eating utensils
- large water bottles or hydration bladder
- Water Filter or water purifier
- Camp shoes (sandals or flip-flops)
- Extra socks and underwear
- Long sleeved shirt
- Cold weather hat
- Waterproof/breathable rain jacket or poncho
- Personal kit (include: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, trowel, hand sanitizer, etc.)
Recommended Items
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses
- Trekking poles
- Gaiters
- Bandanna
- Rain pants
- Fleece or down jacket
- Base layer or long underwear
- Gloves
- Cooking utensils, pot scrubber
- Insect Repellent
- Environmentally friendly, multi-use soap
- Spare 1 gallon zip lock bag or trash bag
- Extra lighter
- Extra batteries
- Sleeping pad patch kit
- Stove repair kit
- Duct tape (can be wrapped around trekking poles or water bottles)
- 30' of lightweight cord
- Whistle
- Camera
- Seat pad or chair kit
- Playing cards or small book
- GPS
- Lightweight hatchet or small folding saw
- Notebook and Pen
© Nicholas Waller
