Backpacker’s Checklist
At first glance the list may appear extensive, but many of the items will be shared with other members in your hiking party. Pre-planning will prevent duplication. Divvy up shared items among all the packs.
Equipment marked with a * is optional depending on the season, weather, geography, and personal need. Equipment listed in bold type should be carried at all times, even when day hiking, as an unexpected emergency may keep you overnight.
When you return from a trip, eliminate the “extras” you thought you’d use and didn’t. After a few trips you’ll know your personal requirements and the best place for everything in your pack.
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Happy Hiking!
FOOD/COOKING
- __ Stove/Stove Fuel
- __ Cook Kit/Drinking Cup
- __ Eating/Cooking Utensils
- __ Matches In a Waterproof Container
- __ Spices/Seasonings
- __ Powdered Milk/Sugar
- __ Coffee/Tea/Drink Mixes
- __ Cooking Oil
- __ Dehydrated Food
- __ Trail Snacks
- __ Plastic Bags For Food Storage And To Pack Out Trash
Most backpacking foods, drink mixes, and snacks are packaged in aluminum foil. Aluminum foil doesn’t burn and isn’t degradable. If you pack it in, please pack it out!
Many grocery store food items backpack well, but they often use excess packaging. Eliminate and recycle as much of this extra material as possible at home, before you load your pack.
NECESSITIES
- __ Topographical Map/Map Case
- __ Silva® System Compass
- __ Flashlight
- __ Extra Flashlight Batteries/Bulb
- __ Knife/Sharpener
- __ Nylon Cord (30 Ft.)
- __ Candle Lantern/Candles
- __ Needle/Thread
- __ Nylon Repair Tape/Duct Tape
SHELTER
- __ Eureka!® Tent, w/ Floor Saver & Optional Vestibule
- __ Sleeping Bag
- __ Sleeping Pad (Foam Or Self-Inflating)
- __ Lightweight Tarp for a Ground Cloth or as an Emergency Shelter
TOILETRIES
- __ Toothbrush/Paste
- __ Biodegradable Soap
- __ Toilet Paper
- __ Sanitary Supplies *
- __ Towel
CLOTHING
- __ Socks—Both Heavy Weight & Light Liners
- __ Underwear
- __ Hat
- __ Polypropylene Underwear *
- __ Down Vest or Light Sweater or Synthetic Fleece Jacket
- __ Parka *
- __ Windbreaker
- __ Rain Gear—Poncho Or Rain Suit
- __ Bandanas
- __ Swim Suit *
- __ Gloves *
- __ Hiking Shorts/Trousers
- __ Shirt
- __ Hiking Boots
- __ Running Shoes/Moccasins for in Camp
- __ Polarguard/Down Booties
MEDICAL
- __ Moleskin
- __ First Aid—Survival Kit
- __ Allergy Restrictions *
- __ Medic Alert ID
- __ Sunglasses
- __ Lip Balm
- __ Sunscreen *
- __ Insect Repellent
- __ Water Purification Filter or Tablets
PERMITS/IDENTIFICATION
- __ Fire/Camping Permits
- __ Fishing/Hunting Licenses
- __ Personal Identification
SAFETY MEASURE
Always leave a detailed trip schedule, in writing, with a responsible person!
OPTIONAL
- __ Camera/Film
- __ Notebook/Pen
- __ Field Guides
- __ Playing Cards
- __ Nylon Water Bag
- __ Nylon Stuff Bags for Organizers
- __ Compact Board Games
- __ Assorted Fish Hooks/Light Line