Backpacking Gear Checklist

This is a generic checklist of backpacking gear for a basic fair-weather trip. Items marked with an asterisk are optional, but good to have. Click on each link to see our in depth-guide to that piece of gear.

Backpacking Gear

• Backpack with pack liner or cover
• Shelter
• Sleeping bag/quilt
• Sleeping pad
• Trekking poles *

Food and Water

• Stove and fuel
• Cooking pot
• Eating utensil
• Camp towel *
• Water bottles
• Water treatment
• Food
• Lighter
• Food bag
• Garbage bag

Clothing and Footwear

• Underwear
• Hiking shirt
• Hiking shorts/pants
• Fleece or Puffy jacket
• Hiking shoes
• Hiking socks

Electronics

• Smartphone
• External battery
• Charging cables
• Headlamp
• Earbuds *

Personal Care

• First aid kit
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toilet paper
• Trowel
• Menstrual products
• Prescriptions
• Sunscreen *
• Bug spray *

Tools and Miscellania

• Knife or mini scissors
• Repair tape
• Hiker wallet
• Car key