Backpacking gear list

I have probably forgotten something. But this list can be a starting point for backpacking
This is for moderate temperature hiking like you find in Arizona.
Remember: Keep it light. Take less. The lighter the load the happier the trip. Buy the minimum… Borrow stuff until you really get serious about backpacking—many novices get all excited about a trip and buy too much stuff then have to replace it later. When you are ready to buy, there are three things that will cost you bigger money. They are

  1. A sleeping bag. Can range from $50 – $200+ Depending on temperature of area you’ll be backpacking
  2. A pack. REI makes great affordable packs. $100+
  3. A tent. $120+ make sure it is lightweight.

Once you have your sleeping bag, pack and tent the rest can be borrowed, gathered or bought here and there. Here is my basic list:

  • Stove. I have a Jetboil, which includes cup and self-ignitor and the coffee press accessory.
  • Sleeping pad. I use a Big Agnes since I have a hard time sleeping outdoors. It takes awhile to inflate.
  • Garbage bag. For trash or to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag stuff sack. Comes with sleeping bag. Doubles as hanging food storage
  • Flashlight or headlamp. Cheap one are good. Make sure they are LED. They break or flood easily so don’t bother with expensive ones. Extra batteries
  • Maps or trail description. Good to have backup
  • Camera and extra batteries
  • Deodorant
  • Anti-bacterial gel
  • Toothbrush/Paste
  • Bandana – use as towel, prefilter for water filter, bandage
  • Toilet paper
  • Plastic Spade to bury fire or human waste
  • Mosquito repellent, Bullfrog makes a good, Deet free, sunscreen/bug repellent
  • Sunscreen & Lip Balm
  • Knife
  • Lighter
  • Baby Powder/diaper cream/body glide for chafing or problem areas
  • Duct Tape
  • Extra Socks
  • Extra clothes. Layers, convertible pants
  • Mountainhouse food or Mary Janes (expensive) If you have a sensitivity to sodium go with Mary Jane
  • Water Filter
  • Spoon
  • Metal cup
  • Benadryl cream
  • Water bladder/Nalgene bottles
  • First Aid Kit
  • Optional things
  • Extra Underwear
  • Flip-flops/sandals
  • Walking Sticks
  • Hammock
  • Ear plugs
  • Smaller stuff sacks to keep gear organized
  • Fire Starter

Optional things

  • Extra Underwear
  • Flip-flops/sandals
  • Walking Sticks
  • Hammock
  • Ear plugs
  • Smaller stuff sacks to keep gear organized
  • Fire Starter
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