Backpacking Packing List
Every ounce counts on the trail. This list is built around a 3-season overnight backpacking trip for one person — multiply consumables by the number of nights and people. Prioritize tested, lightweight gear over anything heavier than necessary.
Example list — 54 items
Shelter
- Ultralight tent or tarp shelter
- Tent stakes×8
- Tent footprint (optional)
Sleep
- Sleeping bag (rated to expected low)
- Sleeping pad (insulated)
- Inflatable pillow
- Silk or liner sleeping bag
Cooking & Food
- Backpacking stove (canister)
- Fuel canister (100g)
- Titanium pot (750 mL)
- Spork
- Lighter and waterproof matches
- Freeze-dried or dehydrated meals×3
- Trail snacks and energy bars×6
- Collapsible cup or mug
- Bear canister (if required)
- Biodegradable camp soap
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layer top×2
- Moisture-wicking underwear×2
- Hiking pants
- Convertible pants or shorts
- Fleece or down jacket
- Hardshell rain jacket
- Rain pants
- Merino wool or synthetic hiking socks×3
- Trail runners or lightweight hiking boots
- Camp sandals (lightweight)
- Sun hat
- Wool or fleece beanie
- Lightweight gloves
- Gaiters (for snow or brush)
Navigation
- Topographic map (printed, waterproofed)
- Baseplate compass
- GPS device or downloaded offline maps
- Trail permit (if required)
Safety & First Aid
- First aid kit (trail-specific)
- Blister treatment kit
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Insect repellent
- Emergency whistle
- Emergency bivy or space blanket
- Satellite communicator (e.g. SPOT, inReach)
- Signal mirror
General
- Backpack (50–70L)
- Pack rain cover
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles or hydration reservoir×2
- Water filter (squeeze or gravity)
- Headlamp
- Spare batteries or power bank
- Dry bags (assorted)×3
- Repair tape (Tenacious Tape)
- Toilet kit (trowel, TP, hand sanitizer, waste bags)
- Permit documents and ID
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