Backpacking is an adventure that requires careful planning and packing. To help you prepare for your next trek, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 100 essential items. Remember, this list is a starting point; adjust it based on your destination, climate, and the length of your trip.
Backpack and Luggage
- Backpack (size depends on trip length)
- Rain cover for backpack
- Compression sacks
- Packing cubes
- Luggage locks
- Daypack
- Dry sacks
- Stuff sacks
Shelter and Sleep
- Tent
- Tent footprint
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow (inflatable or compressible)
- Tent stakes
- Guy lines and reflectors
- Tent repair kit
- Hammock (optional)
- Tarp (optional)
Clothing
- Hiking boots
- Trail running shoes (optional)
- Waterproof hiking pants
- Quick-dry pants
- Shorts
- Base layers (tops and bottoms)
- Fleece jacket (like half-zip pullover, zip up fleece hoodies)
- Insulating jacket
- Rain jacket
- Rain pants
- T-shirts
- Fleece or wool socks
- Underwear
- Hat (sun and cold weather)
- Gloves (for cold weather)
- Sunglasses
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Swimsuit (optional)
Cooking and Eating
- Stove
- Fuel canister
- Cookware (pot, pan, bowl)
- Eating utensils
- Water bottle
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Food (dehydrated meals, energy bars, snacks)
- Coffee or tea (and supplies)
- Jerky or other protein-rich snacks
Safety and First Aid
- Headlamp
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
- GPS device (optional)
- Satellite phone (optional)
- Whistle
- Emergency blanket
- Lighter or waterproof matches
- Fire starter
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm
- Personal medication
Hygiene and Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap
- Shampoo and conditioner (biodegradable)
- Towel (quick-dry)
- Toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
- Hand sanitizer
- Nail clippers
Electronics and Photography
- Smartphone
- Camera (optional)
- Extra batteries
- Solar charger (optional)
- Power bank
- Headphone
Miscellaneous
- Sunglasses
- Book or e-reader
- Journal and pen
- Playing cards or other games
- Repair kit (needle, thread, etc.)
- Duct tape
- Trash bags
- Money belt or passport holder
- Travel documents
- Credit card
- Cash
- Bear spray (if applicable)
- Hiking poles
- Gaiters (optional)
- Bear canister (if required)
- Camp shoes (optional)
- Sunglasses
- Hat (for sun protection)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm
- First aid kit
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Map and compass
Remember to prioritize items based on your specific trip and personal needs. Happy hiking!