backpacking gear list
This list is what I tend to pack when going out for a weekend excursion. There are variations to the theme depending on location and weather expectations.
Feel free to copy it if you would like, but keep in mind this is what I have found works for me, be sure and adjust your list for your own needs.
I do try and keep the items in their own stuff sacks that are different colors for ease of finding them. For instance, I keep all of my survival gear in a light blue stuff sack and all of my clothing in a waterproof red stuff sack etc…
Clothing top to bottom
- Brimmed hat
- Wool hat
- capilene or like synthetic long sleeve shirt
- wool sweater or synthetic fleece
- rain jacket (try to get one with pit zips)
- synthetic long johns
- zip off synthetic pants
- rain pants
- 1 pair wool socks
- 2 pairs synthetic hiking socks
- 1 pair synthetic sock liners
- boots or trail runners
- camp shoes (Chacos)
- leather gloves
Home
- tent (poles, fly, guylines, stakes)
- ground sheet
- sleeping bag
- sleeping mat
Kitchen
- stove
- fuel
- lighter/matches
- utensils (lexan spoon)
- mug/bowl to cook in
Personal Gear
- head lamp (fresh batteries)
- multitool (leathermen wave)
- 50′ 550 cord
- H2O bottle/hydration pack
- duct tape
- map
- compass
- permanent waterproof marker
- wet wipes (unscented)
First Aid
- ibuprofen
- antihistamine
- imodium AD
- alcohol pads
- mole skin
- electrolyte powder
- lip balm
Survival Kit
- small headlamp
- compass
- signal mirror
- whistle
- compass
- waterproof/windproof matches
- magnesium fire starter
- lighter
- tinder (petroleum jelly soaked 100% cotton balls)
- fishing kit: fishing line aprox 20′ 10lb test, small hooks, flies, sinkers
- water purification pills
- small clothes pins
- knife or multitool (always with me not necessarily in kit)
Food
Be sure and plan out your meals prior to the trip in detail so as to bring enough for your needs. Also be aware of what water sources are available. Suggestions for easy good meals are: instant oatmeal, ramen, chocolate, clif or like bars, dehydrated meats and veggies, instant mashed potatoes, etc… remember to always bring a luxury item as a reward for a job well done. Think whiskey or dark chocolate etc…oh and don’t forget the spices my personal favorites are Spike and garlic powder.
Other Suggested Gear
- GPS if you choose
- hammock
- camp chair
- notebook and pen/pencil
- book
- music
- binoculars
- regional guide book
- camera
- tarp
- zip ties
- sewing kit (rarely bring this)
- wool glove liners
- sunscreen
- snare wire
- 4 mil trash bag
Now there are many other items I consider bringing but this list is comprised of the staple items I almost always bring.
3 comments
Thanks for the list. I plan on surviving this weekend on Beef Jerky, Oranges and Whiskey.
That’s a good list. I’ll refer my friends to that one next time I am asked, “what all will I need?”
I don’t see deer skin gloves or leather gloves on your list, although I know you carry them. I haven’t in the past but I’m sold on them now. They are just way too handy as pot holders, as well as for wood collecting and other dirty, splintery jobs around the campsite.
Also, sunglasses are huge to me. Sunburned corneas are really uncomfortable. Plus, squinting on a bright day causes crow’s feet and I’m trying to preserve my fleeting youth.
You are so right my friend. I cannot believe I forgot the leather gloves! They are always a part of my gear! Thanks for the heads up I will add them above.
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