Backpack camping, also known as backpacking, involves hiking into the wilderness with all necessary gear and supplies to camp overnight.
We have a helpful list of gear you’ll need for an overnight backpack camping trip.
Backpack
Choose a backpack with the appropriate capacity for your gear and trip duration. Look for a pack with padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a ventilated back panel for comfort.
Shelter
- Tent: Select a lightweight and durable tent suitable for the number of people in your group and the expected weather conditions.
- Tent footprint or groundsheet: Provides additional protection under the tent and helps extend its lifespan.
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag: Choose a sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures.
- Sleeping pad: Insulating pad or inflatable mattress to provide cushioning and warmth between you and the ground.
- Pillow: Bring a compressible camping pillow or stuff sack filled with clothes for added comfort.
Cooking Equipment
- Portable stove: Lightweight backpacking stove with fuel suitable for your trip duration.
- Cookware: Lightweight pots, pans, and utensils for cooking meals.
- Eating utensils: Pack utensils such as a spork, knife, and mug or bowl.
- Food storage: Bear-resistant food canisters or bags to store food and prevent wildlife encounters.
- Biodegradable soap: Environmentally friendly soap for cleaning dishes and utensils.
Food and Water
- Non-perishable food: Pack lightweight, high-energy foods such as dehydrated meals, energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
- Water: Carry a sufficient supply of drinking water or bring a water purification system to treat water from natural sources.
Clothing for Backpack Camping
- Base layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and pants for regulating body temperature.
- Insulating layers: Fleece jacket or down/synthetic puffy for warmth.
- Outer layer: Waterproof and breathable jacket and pants for protection against rain and wind.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes suitable for rugged terrain.
- Socks: Bring extra pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.
- Hat and gloves: Protect your head and hands from sun, wind, and cold temperatures.
Navigation and Safety
- Map and compass: Carry a detailed map of the area and a reliable compass for navigation.
- GPS device: Optional for additional navigation assistance.
- First aid kit: Pack a comprehensive first aid kit with supplies for treating injuries and illnesses.
- Emergency shelter: Lightweight emergency bivy sack or space blanket for unexpected situations.
- Multi-tool or knife: Handy for various tasks such as gear repair and food preparation.
- Whistle and signaling device: Essential for attracting attention in emergencies.
- Personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger: Optional for remote communication and emergency assistance.
Personal Items for Backpack Camping
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against UV rays.
- Insect repellent: Protect against mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects.
- Toiletries: Minimal toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, and toilet paper.
- Hygiene products: Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for cleaning hands and surfaces.
- Prescription medications: Bring any necessary medications in their original packaging.
Lighting
- Headlamp or flashlight: Essential for navigating in low-light conditions and around the campsite at night.
- Extra batteries: Pack spare batteries to ensure your lighting devices remain operational.
Fire Starters
- Waterproof matches, lighter, or fire starter for building campfires and cooking meals.
- Firewood: Collect dead and downed wood from the area if permitted, or bring a small supply of firewood from home.
Trash Bags
- Bring bags to pack out all your trash and adhere to Leave No Trace principles by leaving your campsite cleaner than you found it.
Remember to pack efficiently to conserve space and weight, and consider the specific conditions of your backpacking trip when selecting gear and supplies. It’s essential to be prepared for changing weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and unexpected challenges while enjoying the wilderness.
