Backpacking Essentials \ Camping List

Main Essentials
(for a multiday trip)

• Backpack (45-65 liters)
• Tent (+ optional tent pad)
• Sleeping bag (appropriate for the season)
• Sleeping pad & pillow
• Backpacking stove and fuel
• Map and compass
• GPS
• Power bank with appropriate charge cables
• Multi-tool or knife
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Water filter or purification tablets
• Hydration system (bladder or water bottles)
• Lightweight trekking poles
• Sit pad
• Day bag
• Bear spray
• Axe & Saw
• Fire starting kit (ferro rod, matches etc.)

Clothes

• Moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom)
• Insulating layer (fleece or down jacket)
• Waterproof/windproof jacket
• Hiking pants
• Quick-dry shorts
• Moisture-wicking socks (multiple pairs)
• Underwear (multiple pairs)
• Hat (for sun protection and warmth)
• Gloves (if needed)
• Gaiters (if needed)
• Camp shoes/sandals
• Rain poncho and/or Frogg Toggs
• Beanie/Tuque

Food (plus 1-2 extra days for emergencies)

• Dehydrated meals
• Trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit
• Energy bars and snacks
• Instant oatmeal
• Coffee/tea
• Electrolyte tablets or powder
• Cooking oil or butter
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, spices)
• Food storage bags (for leftovers)

First Aid

• Adhesive bandages of various sizes
• Gauze pads and medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes/ointment
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Blister treatment (moleskin, blister pads)
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Emergency blanket
• Prescription medications
• Allergy medications (if needed)
• Eye drops
• Tourniquet

Kitchen

• Lightweight pot and pan
• Spork or utensils
• Collapsible bowl and cup
• Biodegradable soap
• Small sponge or scrubber
• Bear canister or bear bag (if required)
• Trash bags

Personal/Extra/Optional Items

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss)
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper or biodegradable wipes
• Trowel (for your poop!)
• Quick-dry towel
• Notebook and pen
• Camera or smartphone
• Sunglasses
• Mirror (for signaling)

Miscellaneous (optional)

• Lightweight camp chair or sit pad
• Repair kit (duct tape, zip ties, gear patches)
• Small sewing kit
• Extra cordage/paracord & stakes
• Bandana or buff
• Lightweight tarp (for additional shelter)
• Whistle
• Emergency contact information