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
- A sleeping bag. Can range from $50 – $200+ Depending on temperature of area you’ll be backpacking
- A pack. REI makes great affordable packs. $100+
- 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