Packing List for Beginner Backpacking Trips

Packing List for Beginner Backpacking Trips

One of the biggest questions people have before stepping into the field on an overnight adventure is, "What should I pack?".

Below we've outlined a basic packing list for a 2 to 5 day recreational backpacking trip. If you are backpack hunting, expect to add a few more items that will increase your pack weight. 

The pack for a 5 day recreational trip will weigh 30 to 40 pounds, depending on the specific items you choose. This includes food and 2 liters of water.

One day of food typically weighs 1.5 to 2 pounds, so shorter trips will make the pack lighter and longer trips will make it a bit heavier. Additionally, "comfort items" (camp chair, book, etc.) will add more weight to the pack - there's always a trade off! 

The backpacking packing list below is for one person. Backpacking in a group allows for shared equipment, decreasing the load of each individual's pack. Gear that can be shared on group trips are marked with a double asterisk. 

Packs need to have a frame and load bearing waist belt. We suggest a 50+ liter pack. 

For a printable version of the packing list click here

Essential Equipment:

  • Sleeping bag or quilt
  • Tent**
  • Sleeping pad
  • Pillow
  • Stove, pot, fuel, lighter**
  • Spoon
  • Mug
  • Headlamp
  • Compass + map
  • Pen + notepad
  • Phone (offline maps)
  • Water bottles (x2) or a 2L bladder
  • Water filtration**
  • Watch (ideally with GPS)
  • Knife or leatherman tool
  • "Oh, shit!" kit (matches, tinder, whistle, duct tape, repair kit)**
  • Food for duration of trip

Clothing:

  • Trail shoes
  • 2-3 pairs of socks
  • Pants
  • Running shorts
  • Ball cap or wide brimmed hat
  • Thin belt
  • Bandana
  • Shirt
  • Insulating layer
  • Beanie
  • Rain jacket or poncho

Hygiene & Medical:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
  • Deodorant**
  • Toilet paper and hand sanitizer**
  • First aid kit**
  • Trauma kit**
  • Trough**

Optional Equipment and Clothing

  • Crocs or camp shoes
  • Sleep shirt / pants
  • Camp chair
  • Chapstick
  • Sunblock**
  • Bug spray**
  • Trekking poles
  • 2L dromedary or collapsible bottle**
  • 50 gallon trash bag
  • Garmin Inreach**
  • Book
  • Pistol
  • Binos**
  • Charging brick + cords**
  • Radio
  • Flash pack or fanny pack
  • Flask**
  • Sunglasses
  • Gaiters / rain pants
  • Wet wipes**

 If you pack everything on this list, you can expect a 45 pound pack.  

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