Backpacking Checklist
Shelter and Hiking Gear Food and Hydration
Backpacking pack Water bottle/hydration pack
Rain cover/dry bag Water filtration system
Tent + poles, stakes, rainfly, guylines Food for every day + 1
OR bivy sack Backpacking stove + fuel
Ground tarp Cookware
Sleeping bag Spork + mug or cup
Sleeping pad Biodegradable soap + sponge (optional)
Camping pillow (optional) Bear bag or bear canister
Hiking poles (optional) Coffee + tea supplies (optional)
Safety and Navigation Clothing
First aid kit Moisture-wicking underwear + sports bra
Headlamp + batteries Hiking socks
Backup water treatment method Breathable t-shirts
Emergency firestarter Long-sleeved sun shirt
Personal locator beacon (optional) Hiking shorts + hiking pants
Map + compass Hiking shoes or boots
GPS watch or handheld GPS (optional) Sun hat
Pocket knife or multi-tool Midweight fleece jacket
Gear repair kit Down jacket
Emergency shelter Sunglasses
Permits (if required) Sandals + camp clothes (optional)
Safety whistle Warm hat
Bear spray (optional) Baselayers (optional)
Copies of your route (give one to a friend Gloves (optional)
and stash one in your car) Windbreaker (optional)
Trail guidebook (optional) Rain jacket + pants (optional)
Toiletries Extras
Trowel + toilet paper + waste bag Cell phone
Hand sanitizer Camera
Toothbrush + toothpaste Binoculars
Wet wipes (optional) Journal
Sunscreen + lip balm with SPF Daypack
Menstrual products Backpacking chair
Prescription medication Hammock
OTC painkillers Bandana
Blister care Power bank/solar charger
Bug spray (optional) Quick dry towel (optional)
Brush (optional)
Extra hair ties (optional)