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Backpacking Checklist

Use this backpackers checklist to ensure you've packed all the backpacking essentials.

The essentials. Pack these necessities no matter
what length of trip.

  • Food
  • Drinking water
  • Extra clothing layers
  • Waterproof matches and fire starter
  • Headlamp, flashlight, spare batteries, and bulbs
  • First aid kit
  • Repair kit
  • Multi-tool or pocket knife
  • Map
  • Compass
  • Whistle 
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lipbalm
  • Trip itinerary
  • Waterproof compression sack
  • A reliable friend

Food/cooking

  • Food (adequate supply for your trip)
  • Fuel funnel
  • Cookset and dishes
  • Cooking and eating utensils
  • Pot grabber
  • Drinking cup
  • Sharp knife
  • Ziplock and trash bags
  • Storage containers
  • Biodegradable dish soap
  • Pot scrubber and dish towel
  • Collapsible water container
  • Water bottle

Miscellaneous

  • Insect repellent and bite salve
  • Bear bells and bear spray
  • Candle lantern
  • Backcountry permits
  • Moist towelettes
  • Safety pins
  • Duct tape
  • Watch and alarm clock
  • Notepad and pencil
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Daypack or summit pack
  • Altimeter
  • GPS
  • Guide book
  • Extra zip type bags
  • Playing cards
  • Frisbee
  • Mirror
  • Pyjamas
  • Swimsuit
  • Bandana
  • Change of clothes waiting at the trailhead
  • Spare keys stowed safely in backpack

Basic equipment
  • Backpack
  • Tent or bivy sack
  • Tarp
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Stove and fuel
  • Cooking and eating utensils
  • Water filter and treatment
  • Toiletries and personal items

Additional camping equipment

  • Pack cover
  • Tent footprint
  • Tent pegs
  • Sitting pad and chair kit
  • Rope or cord

Personal items

  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Other personal toiletry items
  • Small bath towel
  • Medications and supplements
  • Brush or comb
  • Toilet paper
  • Trowel

Footwear

  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • Sandals
  • Hiking socks
  • Wicking liner socks
  • Extra laces
  • Gaiters
  • Trekking poles

Clothing

  • Weatherproof jacket and pants
  • Insulating layers, jacket, sweater, and vest
  • Quick drying pants and shorts
  • Long and short sleeved shirts
  • Warm pants (fleece or wool)
  • Socks and underwear
  • Long underwear and baselayers
  • Toque, gloves, and mitts
  • Wide brimmed sun and rain hat

Friendly advice

  • Some items may be optional depending on your route, the weather, and the length of your trip.
  • Carry no more than 20-30% of your body weight. Weight including packs and boots.
  • www.freezerbagcooking.com is a great resource for meal planning
Download this checklist (PDF)