Gear for a typical 3-season weekend backpacking trip.
Core Items
General Items
- Backpack rain cover
- Bear canister*
- Bear spray*
- Bug repellent
- Cell phone and case
- Compass
- GPS device (optional)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Map (hard copy)
- Nylon cord
- Spare batteries
- Sunglasses
- Tent footprint/floor guard
- Trekking poles
- Water bottle(s)
- Water filter
- Whistle
Kitchen
Gear Repair
- Duct tape
- Seam sealant
- Stove maintenance kit
- Tent pole repair sleeve
Personal
First Aid
- Antibiotic ointment
- Bandages
- Cotton swabs
- First-aid kit
- Gauze
- Medical tape
- Moleskin
- Pain medicine
- Popsicle sticks
Clothing
- Backpacking/hiking boots
- Backpacking/hiking socks
- Base layer (synthetic)
- Full-zip fleece
- Hat with visor/brim
- Pants/shorts (synthetic)
- Rain jacket
Tasks
- Obtain permits
- Notify others of trip plan
- Check weather
*Check local regulations.
Backpacking in unique environments like the desert, tropical forests, or in winter conditions require a modified checklist. If hiking with others, some items need to be carried by only one person in the group.
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