The Ultimate Backpacking Gear Checklist

Woman hiking outdoors — Photo: Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

So you want to learn how to pack a backpack for camping? Whether you are new to backcountry camping or just want a backpacking checklist to help you get on the trail, you'll want to consider this list of gear for your big adventure. This checklist list is intended to be more than complete—you will not need everything. In fact, it is best to pack a minimal amount of backpacking gear and luxury items at home. The lighter your pack, the better you'll feel, but don't leave out the essentials.

Be sure to research the weather and climate of your destination and adjust your packing accordingly. If you'll be hiking in a cold or rainy region, pay special attention to waterproof equipment. If it's going to be cold, plan to carry extra layers of clothing. If you are lucky enough to hike and camp in warm weather, you might not need as much gear.

Backpacking Essentials

Tent and camping equipment at lakeside forest campsite, Alberta, Canada — Hero Images/Getty Images

Whether you are expecting warm, cold, sunny, or rainy weather, there are basic backpacking items that you'll need to take. Shelter, bedding, cooking equipment, and minimal clothing are required for any overnight trip. Here's what you should pack.

A backpack
Tent or tarp with poles or guy lines
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Camp Stove and lighter
Food
Water bottle and water purification system
Headlamp
Sun protection
Extra layers of clothing

Camping Shelter

Tent Campsite on Lake Marjorie, Californian Sierra Nevada — Greg Jaggears / Getty Images

To be safe and comfortable you will want a good camping shelter for your backpacking trip. Here are the basics for a good night's rest in the wild.

Tent or tarp
Tent poles, stakes, and/or guy lines
Ground cloth or tarp
Sleeping bag
Waterproof stuff sack for sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Camp pillow
Mosquito netting

Clothing for Backpacking

Austria, Tyrol, couple hiking at Unterberghorn at sunrise — Westend61 / Getty Images

Backpacking clothing is just like hiking except you'll be spending the night. Carefully consider the weather, expect for the worst, and be prepared.

Hiking boots
Sandals (select a pair that will work for wading streams)
Zip-off convertible pants/shorts
Thermal underwear top and bottom
Lightweight down or synthetic jacket
Fleece jacket or vest
Fleece pants
Raincoat and pants - fully waterproof
Beanie
Gloves
Moisture-wicking t-shirt
Hiking socks (an extra pair is recommended)
Camp socks
Down booties

Backcountry Kitchen

Camping stove — HansChris / Getty Images

It's true—food tastes better in the great outdoors and especially when you carried it to a beautiful destination. Here's what you'll need to cook. If you like to cook on a fire, be sure to check area regulations.

Food (dehydrated or quick cook food items are recommended)
Stove
Fuel
Pots
Pot grabber
Utensils
Utility knife or multi-tool
Lighter and/or matches
Water bottle (an extra water bottle is recommended)
Water filter or other purification system
Biodegradable soap
French press
Coffee cup
Dishes or bowls
Bear canister or hang bags and ropes for food storage

First-Aid and Safety

First aid kit and lantern on a table — Lebazele/Getty Images

Your trip will most likely be safe and free of accidents, but if you have a wilderness emergency you'll want a few basic supplies to help the injured be more comfortable before getting them back to civilization.