Backpacking Equipment Checklist

Here is my checklist for essential backpacking gear. You can add missing items in the comments. Have fun & be safe!

Navigation

• Map
• Compass

Sun Protection

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Sunglasses

Clothing – Adjust as necessary for the temperature and weather you plan on exploring.

• Fleece jacket
• Windbreaker (waterproof)
• Rain pants
• Socks (lots)
• Mid weight shirt (smartwool)
• T-shirt
• Longsleve sun-shirt
• Shorts
• Thermal top
• Thermal bottom
• Gloves
• Sun / hiking hat
• Warm beanie
• Bandana
• Hiking shoes
• Mosquito hood

Survival

• First aid kit
• Headlamp
• Lighter or matches
• Knife or multitool
• Trowel
• TP

Hydration

• Water bottle
• Camel pack / daypack
• Water filter

Shelter

• Lightweight rain tarp or tent
• Twine
• Spaceblanket
• Sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag
 (trash bag for rain cover)

Storage

• Pack
• Waterproof trash bag (pack cover)
• Dry bag
• Daypack

Cooking

• Camping stove
• Fuel
• Mess kit
• Utensils
• Cup

Food

• Freeze dried dinners
• Fruit
• Crackers
• Hard cheese
• Peanut butter & honey
• Trail mix
• Oatmeal + raisins
• Loose tea + reusable tea bag
• Bear canister (if in bear territory)
• Trash bag

Hygiene

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Hand towel
• Hand sanitizer