Backpacking is a great way to spend the time outdoors, let us help you plan
If this is your first backpacking trip, welcome, your life is about to change. I'm glad you made the decision to adventure overnight in the woods.
It surely can get overwhelming while having to plan a backpacking trip, figuring out what to bring can be a daunting task, specially when you know you will be miles away from civilization. Outdoorsy tribe has enjoyed many trips and came up with this very handy list of essentials you don't want to forget that can be useful as you plan your trips.
But before we get into the list, here are a few forgotten tips but extremely essential for the adventure thats ahead.
Wilderness permits - required in most places for overnight camping and backpacking. Check the permit requirements of your destination and have those printed/picked up at ranger station day prior or on the day you are looking to start.
Route planning & conditions - another important part of planning the backpacking experience is to ensure you have laid down the plan. Here are some planning reminders:
Trailhead Access and how to get there
Is there a closest town to spend the night before so driving does not take away from the hike day
How many miles hike/day - usually 5-6 miles is a good estimate, but depending on fitness and speed this could vary. It also various on elevation gain and altitude the hike may be at
Expected weather, good idea to check prior to departure, that way appropriate gear can be packed
Camping location - rough idea on the campsites for when you are in wilderness
Arrival time - map your arrival time to camp and keep sometime to set up camp before nightfall
Download Maps - there is most often no connectivity (isn't that the purpose of backpacking, we call it the '#DigitalDetox its always a good idea to download offline maps or keep paper maps of the region
Leave no trace behind - if you are not aware of this principle in the woods check out various resources online or at Leave No Trace website, it takes all of us to make a difference
Emergency Alert - always ensure someone outside of your backpacking group knows your plan and can assist if required. Keep their contact information on you in case of need
Backpacking checklist - Here is an essentials checklist for quick reference:
Food Essentials - There is always a question on how much or how little to carry, a good estimate is to consume anywhere close to 2200 - 2800 calories per day. Depending on size and weight this could be on either side of the band. Also grab the foods you like rather than picking anything from the shelf. Here is what to carry - essentials
Tea/Coffee
Snack/Bar
Dehydrated Food (lunch/dinner/breakfast)
One day additional food for emergency situations
Energy gels/chews
Trail mix
Candy
Hydration/ Water - Being well hydrated is crucial in backcountry, 3-5 Liters/day of water while out in the open is a good estimate to consume. Also remember to replenish salts in your body as you hike
Filteration System & Tablets
2 bottles that carry enough water 1L minimum
Numm Tablets (helps replenish essential salts)
Camp Kitchen - While its possible to carry cooked food for the first day, the subsequent days meals will require you to prep.
Camp Stove and gas
Lighter
Fire Starter (also useful to start a campfire)
Utensils - lightweight spoon, cup/mug, plate
Biodegradable soap scrub
Backpack & Storage - carry the correct backpack fitted to your body weight and height
Backpack - typically a 60L should suffice a 2-3 days wilderness trip
Daypack - in case you plan to venture to additional hikes from your camp, this is lightweight and easy to carry
Bear canister - a MUST for anyone venturing into the bear country. All scented stuff and food must be secured in the bear can at all times
Garbage Bag & Ziploc Bags (anytime waterproofing is required these are handdly)
Shelter & Sleeping - Know the weather in the region of hike and carry this equipment accordingly to conditions
Backpacking tent - 3 season tent usually works well, but specific weather conditions may warrant specific tent types
Sleeping Bag & Sleeping mat - mat provides insulation from the ground. Temperatures drop in night, so a good sleeping that can hold low temperatures for your region is essential for a good night sleep
Pillow (optional) - if that is something you must have feel free to carry
Clothing & Personal Toilettes - Again this needs some weather depended planning
Layers - always carry base, mid and outer layer when in the mountains. Weather tends to change rapidly
Socks, undergarments - extra pairs and changes are a good idea to stay fresh
Beanies, sun hat, buff - all these plan a critical role in protecting against the elements
Sunglasses - again an essential not to be missed
Toothpaste, toothbrush, floss
Sunscreen, lip balm, comb, mirror, face cream
Unscented wipes, toilet paper, wag bag
Hand soap, sanitizer
Hiking pants, shirt and extra pair
Camp Shoes
First Aid - Its another of those items that are easily forgotten but should always be on you given medical attention can be hours away
Prescription medication
Mole Skin, bandages, super glue
Anti-diarrheal, anti-histamines
Antiseptic ointment
High altitude medication (diamox)
Other Accessories and Tools - prepare yourself for the unknown and keep the most essential handy
Swiss Knife - multi use tool that can assist in various situations
Powerbank, extra batteries
Compass
Hiking Poles (optional but recommended)
Headlamps, camp light (solar recommended)
Camera - capturing memories is such an amazing thing
Here is an easy downloadable checklist to follow: .
Learning's from the tribe - Less is more in the wilderness, make each ounce you carry be useful.