This comprehensive backpacking checklist includes every item I pack when I’m going backpacking. If you’re looking for a backpacking packing list with lightweight gear and a couple of luxuries that will maximize your comfort both at camp and on the trail, you’ve come to the right place.
Packing for a backpacking trip always feels a little stressful. It’s a careful balance between overpacking and underpacking. Bring too much, and your pack will be uncomfortably heavy. Bring too little, and you could end up cold, hungry and miserable. I know because I experienced both situations when I first started backpacking 20 years ago.
Since then, I’ve backpacked more than a thousand miles which has given me lots of opportunities to dial in my backpacking checklist so it has everything I need to be safe and comfortable and nothing more.
This comprehensive backpacking checklist list has all of the essentials you need for a 3-day (or longer) backpacking trip, including your shelter, sleeping system, clothing, safety gear, cooking equipment, and other basic necessities.
I recommend saving this post and printing off the checklist so you can easily refer back to it while you’re packing. That way you can make sure you don’t forget anything!
This post may contain affiliate links.
Backpacking Gear Essentials
These are the essential pieces of gear that should always be on your backpacking checklist for every single trip you plan.
Backpacking Pack: For a 3-5 day trip, the average backpacker will need a pack that is 50-60 liters. This is big enough to fit all of your backpacking essentials, as well as a bear canister if needed. Out of all the backpacks I’ve tried, I find the Deuter Aircontact Packs to be the most supportive and comfortable. They are very adjustable so you can get the perfect fit and have tons of pockets for easy access and organization.
Tent: I love my Zpacks tent. It’s one of the lightest, yet roomiest tents on the market. The Zpacks Duplex (2-person) weighs 17.9 ounces and the Zpacks Triplex (3-person) weighs a mere 21.4 ounces, which is pounds less than most other tents! Ryan and I use the Triplex because it gives us a little extra space to spread out with our dogs. Instead of tent poles, you use your trekking poles and guy line tension to give the tent structure. That may sound intimidating, but I promise once you set it up a couple of times, it feels very easy. In my experience, it’s incredibly durable and can stand up to pretty horrible weather. Read my detailed Zpacks review for more info.
Tent Stakes: Stakes are an easy item to forget, and I always pack a couple extras just in case. I use the Zpacks Sonic Stakes which are lightweight, have great holding power, and aren’t too expensive.
Sleeping Bag: A few years bag, I switched to a backpacking quilt, and I’ll never go back to a traditional sleeping bag. The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quit is very warm, incredibly light, and it’s way more comfy for those of us who shift around a lot in their sleep at night. The 850-fill down, 10-degree regular size only weighs 25.95 ounces, while the 30-degree weighs 19.18 oz. You can cinch the footbox completely closed, and it comes with straps that you use to attach the quilt to your sleeping pad, creating a cocoon-like environment. The quilt doesn’t have a sewn in hood, but if you need one, you can buy a hood separately.
Sleeping Pad: The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is 3.5 inches thick, and extremely light, packing down to the size of a Nalgene. The regular size weighs 1 lb, and it offers excellent insulation against the cold ground.
Trekking Poles: I’d argue that trekking poles are an essential piece of gear on your backpacking checklist (especially if you are using the Zpacks tent I recommended). On those uphill climbs, trekking poles help take the weight off your hips and legs by utilizing your arm strength. On the downhill, they help ease the pressure on your knees. And on those stream crossings, these puppies have saved me more times than I can count by helping me balance. The Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles are the poles I use.
Rain Cover for your Pack: Backpacks sometimes come with a rain cover, but if not, you’ll want to buy a rain cover separately to protect your gear in a downpour. You can also line the inside of your pack with a compacter bag as a budget-friendly solution.
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Cooking Gear
I tend to keep my cooking setup simple when backpacking. I mainly boil water for coffee or tea and oats in the morning and for backpacking meals in the evening.
Backpacking Stove/Pot: The Jetboil Flash Cooking System is the most efficient backpacking stove I’ve used. It takes just over 3 minutes to boil water. The Jetboil includes the stove and an integrated pot and weighs 13.1 oz. The Jetboil is best if you only plan to boil water. If you like to cook from scratch, I recommend the MSR Pocket Rocket and the TOAKS Titanium Pot.
Fuel: For a 3-5 day trip for 2 people, one 8 oz fuel canister should be enough if you are boiling water for coffee, breakfast, and dinner.
Water Filter: While there are lighter options, like the Sawyer Squeeze, the Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is absolutely the easiest way to filter your water in the backcountry. You just hang up the bag and let gravity push the water through, eliminating the need to manually pump or squeeze water through a filter. At 11.5 ounces, it’s still very light and you can quickly and effortlessly filter water for your whole group. I also always carry some purification tablets in my first aid kit, just in case.
Water Bottles: I like to have the ability to pack 3 liters of water. That way I can carry enough to last if there is a long distance between water sources. It’s also nice to have enough to cook with and drink at camp without having to constantly be filtering water. These lightweight Platypus Soft Bottles weigh practically nothing and can be rolled up when they are empty. While I normally day hike with a hydration reservoir in my pack, I prefer water bottles when backpacking. A hydration reservoir is much harder to refill because you have to take all of your gear out of your pack to access it.
Mug: You’ll need something for that morning coffee and evening tea. The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is lightweight and will keep your beverage warm with its insulated wrap and sip lid. It even has a lightweight fabric strap as a handle.
Eating Utensil: If you’re eating backpacker meals, this TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon is the only utensil you need, and it weighs shockingly little at 0.65 ounces! It also has a long handle and can easily reach the bottom of that Mountain House bag.
Bear Canister: Bear canisters are required by law in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, spots in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and others. Even if they aren’t required, I often like to use a bear canister to keep other types of critters from getting my food. If you are on a short trip and only carrying food for yourself, the Bear Vault 450 is a good inexpensive option. Or for 2 people or longer trips, go for the larger version. Also in some places, they may be available for rent at rangers stations or local outdoors stores, but be sure to check before heading out.
Lighter: Even if your stove has an ignition switch, you should always bring a lighter as a backup.
Knife/Multi-tool: Depending on what you want to cook, you may need a small knife. Alternatively, a lightweight multi-tool with a knife can also come in handy for both cooking and in-the-field gear repairs.
Bowl (Optional): If you are relying on backpacker meals, you can eat right out of the pouch or the pot. If you are a bigger group where you are dishing out food, pack a small bowl. I like these foldable bowls since they take up zero room and weigh nothing, and you can lick them clean when you’re done.
Food: See my post about lightweight backpacking food for ideas that are easy and don’t require a lot of cleanup.
There are a few safety gear essentials that should be on your backpacking packing list, no matter where you are headed.
Emergency Communication Device: I consider an emergency communication device a must on my backpacking checklist. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 tracks your location with GPS, allows for two-way texting, and has an SOS function that you can use to call for help.
Headlamp: The Black Diamond SPOT Rechargeable Headlamp is ultralight, waterproof, and has battery that should last on a 3-5 day trip as long as you aren’t using it on high beam the entire time.
First-Aid Kit: This ultralight, waterproof medical kit comes with the minimum supplies that you will need to address minor wounds, as well as travel-sized packs of some handy medications. In addition to what comes in this kit, you should supplement it with some extra blister band-aids and any medications that are specific to the hikers in your group.
If you’re heading out of cell phone range, you’ll want to bring a GPS communication device like the Garmin inReach Mini (I’m carrying a larger, previous Garmin model in this photo)
Toiletries
My beauty routine while backpacking is pretty limited and is focused purely on hygiene, and that is reflected in this backpacking checklist. No deodorant, no makeup, etc.
Lip Balm: The mountains can suck the moisture right out of those beautiful lips leaving them cracked and dry. Plus, your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as your face, so SPF is key. I’ve been using Jack Black SPF 25 lip balm for years. It’s very effective!
Sunscreen: I like to cover my arms and neck with sun protective clothing, but I still use sunscreen on my face and other uncovered skin. I like Babo Botanicals Sunscreen because it’s EWG certified and free of nasty chemicals.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: I recently started packing Toothpaste Tablets on backpacking trips. I throw the number of tablets I need in a small bag, which weighs less than a travel-sized toothpaste tube. You just chew for a few seconds before brushing, and they work great!
Poop Kit: Your poop kit should consist of a lightweight trowel for digging a 6-8″ cathole, toilet paper, and a small ziplock for packing out dirty toilet paper. Please pack out your toilet paper! It’s really gross to find used toilet paper from other backpackers, and animals like to dig it up. I typically like to put the ziplock with the dirty TP in a small, non-see-through sack just so I don’t have to look at it. For tips on how to Leave No Trace, read my post on How to Poop Outside.
Pee Rag: Ladies, listen up! The antimicrobial Kula Cloth is a life-changing backpacking invention. Instead wiping with TP each time you pee and packing out the dirty TP OR not wiping at all, which can result in odors and discomfort, just wipe with the reusable Kula cloth pee rag! After using it, you rinse it off and hang it on the outside of your pack to dry. Then when you get home, you can throw it in the washing machine, and it’s good as new. For more details, read my full Kula Cloth Review.
Hand Sanitizer: A small bottle of hand sanitizer is essential for cleaning your hands after going to the bathroom and before handling food.
Bug spray: If the mosquitos are out, you’ll want to apply buy spray to uncovered areas. Bug spray is also effective against ticks if you are backpacking in areas where ticks are common.
Body Wipes (Optional): If you can’t stand the idea of not bathing for a few days, you can pack a few body wipes to clean yourself. Rather than bringing the whole package, you can take the number you need and put them in a ziplock.
Portable Bidet (Optional): A new backpacking trend is to pack a portable bidet. It helps cut down on toilet paper use and keeps things a lot cleaner when you’re going days without a shower.
Small hairbrush (Optional): If you have long hair, wearing it in braids can help avoid tangles. However, a small brush is nice to keep things from getting too knotted up.
The BoglerCo Trowel is ultra lightweight at just 0.48 oz and is made from aircraft grade aluminum
Clothing
The specific clothing you pack is going to depend on the climate. The backpacking clothing checklist here assumes you are spending 3-5 days in the mountains during the normal summer/fall hiking season.
The idea is to bring the absolute minimum you need to be comfortable. You really only need 1 hiking outfit and 1 set of dry, warm clothes to change into when you get to camp and for sleeping.
Shirts (2): I always hike in a lightweight, quick-dry, moisture-wicking t-shirt, and most often it’s the Patagonia Cool Capilene Long Sleeve T-Shirt. I prefer long sleeves because it minimizes the amount of sunscreen I have to apply throughout the day. I bring 2 – one for hiking and another for camp.
Hiking Pants (1): While I like to hike in leggings, if the mosquitos are bad, they can bite you right through leggings. In that case, I like something a bit looser like the the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants. They are extremely light, have deep pockets, and a stretchy waistband. For men, my partner Ryan likes to backpack in the Kuhl Renegade pants.
Camp/Sleep Pants (1): If you can find hiking pants that are also comfortable to sleep in, then you might not need a second pair of pants. However, I like to have something a bit warmer for nighttime. Long johns are great because you can always layer them underneath your hiking pants if it’s really cold, and they are great to sleep in too.
Midlayer (1): The Patagonia R1 Full Zip Hoody is warm, yet breathable and can be layered over your hiking shirt if it’s a cold day or underneath a jacket at night.
Insulated Jacket (1): I recently tried the Enlightened Equipment Torrid Jacket (men’s here). It’s made of synthetic insulation which performs better than down in wet conditions. It’s lighter and warmer than the popular Patagonia Nanopuff and packs down very small. It’s not the most fashionable, but for a lightweight backpacking jacket, it’s hard to beat.
Rain Gear: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s wise to pack rain gear, even if the forecast isn’t calling for rain. I personally use the Arc’teryx Beta SL (see my full Beta SL review here). It’s made of 3-layered GORE-TEX, has big pit zips for ventilation, and the material is soft and flexible so it’s comfortable to hike in. Plus it only weighs 10.6 oz, making it one of the lightest quality rain jackets out there. You should also consider bringing rain pants.
Sports Bra (2): I prefer a basic sports bra that doesn’t have underwire or clasps that could end up rubbing against my backpack. I’ve been wearing the Nike Swoosh Bras for years, and they are great for hiking and swimming in.
Underwear (2-3): You may be tempted to bring more on a short 3-day trip, but it’s not practical to bring a pair of underwear for each day on longer trips. I bring 2-3 pairs. When I change out of one, I rinse it, and hang it to the outside of my pack to dry. Here is a roundup of my favorite quick-dry women’s underwear for hiking.
Socks (2): I bring 2 pairs of Darn Tough Lightweight Hiking Socks on every backpacking trip. Like my underwear, I’ll swap them out and rinse them in between uses. Darn Tough are extremely durable, keep their shape, and stay in place on your feet so you avoid nasty blisters.
Hiking Boots (1): I’m a huge fan of Oboz Footwear and have been wearing them exclusively for almost a decade. If you like a traditional mid-ankle hiking boot, the Oboz Bridger BDry Mid is extremely popular. If you like something a bit lighter, the Sawooth or the lightweight Katabatic are great choices too. Want more recommendations? Check out my guide to the best women’s hiking boots.
Camp Sandals (1): For a camp sandal, you want something that is light, supportive enough to walk around in, can be worn in the water, and that you can wear socks with. I love the Teva Universal Trail Sandals. They are lightweight (1 pound for the pair) and provide structure and grip for walking around camp. Read my full Teva Sandal review for more details.
Sun Hat (1): I like a wide-brimmed hat because it protects more of my face from the sun. The Wallaroo Sedona Hat has been my favorite for years. It’s comfortable, provides great UPF 50 coverage, and the brim is flexible enough that it isn’t annoying when it hits my backpack. You can get 20% off any Wallaroo hat with the code “BEARFOOT20”
Sunglasses: These should provide UVA/UVB protection. I wear Roka Sunglasses (The Rory 2.0 are my favs). They are lightweight and don’t shift around on my face. You can also get Roka sunglasses with a prescription.
Buff: A Buff is a versatile piece that you can wear around your neck for sun protection or around your face and ears if it’s windy. When I’m hot, I like to dunk mine in the water which keeps me cool as I hike.
Beanie: Depending on how cold it will get, you may want a beanie for nighttime.
Gloves: If it’s going to be cold, you’ll also want to bring a pair of gloves. I like these lightweight Smartwool liner gloves. They’re touchscreen compatible and not bulky, so they work well with trekking poles. If you think you might be hiking in rain, these ultralight rain mitts can be worn over your gloves and will keep your hands dry as you hike.
Head net: If the mosquitos are bad, you’ll thank yourself for bringing a small insect head net to keep them off your face.
Swimsuit (Optional): Swimming in a sports bra and underwear is totally acceptable in the backcountry, but if you’re more comfortable you can also bring a swimsuit.
Helpful Tip
Avoid Cotton
When backpacking, you want to avoid cotton because it retains moisture, takes a long time to dry, and tends to harbor smells. Instead, opt for quick-dry materials that wick sweat and resist odors.
Below are a few luxury items that you might consider adding to your backpacking checklist. These aren’t necessities, but they can make your time on the trail more comfortable and enjoyable.
Backpacking Chair: Packing a lightweight chair is definitely not essential for a backpacking trip, but it’s a nice-to-have item if you plan to spend a lot of time relaxing at camp. The Helinox Chair Zero packs down to roughly the size of 2 Nalgene water bottles and weighs only 1 pound.
Backpacking Pillow: As I get older, a pillow has become a must for me. It helps me sleep so much better at night, and a real pillow is far superior to the old-school method of stuffing clothing in a stuff sack. An inflatable pillow is going to be the lightest option, but I prefer the Therm-a-rest Compressible Pillow which allows me to comfortably sleep on my back or side. I also like using this pillow strap to attach my pillow to my sleeping pad so it doesn’t shift around at night.
Quick Dry Towel: A lightweight quick-dry towel is always handy, whether it’s for drying your hands and face, doing dishes, or going for a swim and doing some sunbathing.
Portable battery pack: If you want to recharge your devices, this Nitecore Gen2 Power Bank is one of the lightest, weighing 5.29 oz. It has a 10,000mAh capacity and can charge a iPhone 2 times.
Book: I suggest bringing a Kindle over a bulky paperback.
BFT Contributor Courtney in the Helinox Chair Zero
What’s on your backpacking checklist that I missed? Is there anything you’d add or subtract? Do you have any questions about what to bring backpacking? Let me know in the comments below.
With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.
59 Comments
Pretty nice list! I need to have a look at the Nemo sleeping pad, my Thermarest is annoying me so much recently.. Need something light and rectangular.
I’m totally with you re: trying to find a comfortable and convenient way to carry photography gear. Have you tried the Peak Design capture clip? I’ve used it for day hikes and have liked it so far but am not sure how it will work for weekend backpacking trips. Of course, even with the clip you’d need some decent bag for protection if you’re going through rough terrain or if the elements don’t cooperate. I like your approach with the sling though. 🙂
I have tried the Peak Design clip. They are pretty cool and I might be taking one with me on my upcoming trip to Nepal.
Check out Cotton Carrier’s Strapshot camera holster for your DSLR. It wraps around your backpack shoulder strap and provides a secure place to hang your camera with a 1/4 turn quick release and safety tether. I use it and have the full chest harness.
(I’m not at all associated with them, just find their gear really convenient.)
Thanks for the good read.
I also use the cotton carrier system – a disc screws into the tripod attachment of my camera (I pack in a Sony a6000 with an 18-200mm lens) and then there’s a holster that clips/velcros on to my backpack strap on my shoulder. You keep the strap around your neck for safety (more than twice I’ve been over, the camera unhooked from the carrier and I would have dropped it without the neck strap!) and then the camera is easily accessible when you want to shoot something. The downside is no protection from dust/moisture, so on dusty trails I’m brushing off the lens a lot. But it went with me to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro and numerous 2-7 day backpacking trips with a large ziplock in my bag for water protection if needed. Love this setup.
I love my cotton carrier. I carry a full sized Nikon on it..have for 3 years… zero accidental disconnects… its tough for a piece of plastic too….
Great list Kristen, these checklists are so handy for people that are new to doing these kind of hikes.
Have a great holidays!
Stephen
– Uncharted Backpacker
This is an awesome and very specific list! It’s very helpful you listed brands that you specifically like to use!
Just got the Montrail hiking boots. Loving it so far. Great list.
I THINK I obtained permits for Havasu Falls for this spring (I received confirmation emails, but still have a fear something may go wrong, but I’m hoping for the best). Starting to plan and struggle with what camera equipment to bring. I have a Nikon d7100 that I love, but would like to get by with just my 35 mm/1.8 lens. Think that’s wide enough to get good waterfall shots?
Hey Des, I’d highly recommend a wide angle lens. I brought a 16-35mm last time and it worked out perfectly. Have fun!
Amazing list! Seems to be the go-to stuff when comparing to other lists. That said, I\’d strongly suggest bringing a compass and map! On a longer trip would you change change the gear or simply bring a few more items of clothes?
Thanks Sean for the added recommendation of a compass and map! For a longer trip I would just recommend having at least one change of clothes in case of weather or for added layering. I backpacked the entire PCT for 5 months with only 2 shirts and 2 pairs of bottoms, so you definitely don’t need to expand on bringing more items necessarily.
A great list and this is going to be so useful to me. I go on treks very frequently and usually don’t get much time for backpacking. Thanks a lot for posting!
You literally just saved my life. Thank you for making this list!
Its always good to have a small extra knife just to be sure and ready for everything. A roadeavour knife wont add that much. only a size of a credit card. but very reliable.
Also a good thing to have is a collapsible water bottle like the one in roadeavour
n NZ if I went hiking with an umbrella, I would be laughed out of the hills. It would be really good to see exactly what you take in all the small bags, as this is wear weight accumulates and my pack gets heavy. Thanks for sharing.
Hey man, this is a very specific and a great list. Thanks for sharing with us such a awesome list.
Great list Kristen. Thanks for taking the time to put this stuff together. Your site is full of great info. I do the same stuff on a much less professional level on my youtube channel. Your site always has a few gems that even experienced hikers can find useful. Keep up the good work!
Thanks good stuff
Wow you hit the lottery? Most hikers couldn’t afford have your list. Anyone can go into a REI and buy the best available but a true backpacker can use whats handy and go on a trip. I am an assistant scout master for a Boy Scout troop and do trips including gas for a 3 hour trip, food for 12 and snacks for around 12 bucks each using basic gear for 3 days on the trail. Contact me and I can teach you how to hike on a tight budget.
I am so grateful to have stumble across your website. I am a beach bum. I have only done one day hikes. But, I have been invited to a three day hike in Korea. I will be doing the Jirisan Nature Reserve over three days. I have a bag and sleeping bag. That’s it. What elae do I need to prepare for this three day trek? It will be in September. Your help would be appreciated. I am an Expat teaching in Korea. I am exploring Korea through Hikes and wone tasting. I am open to suggestion.
Hi Gabriela, we are so glad you found us! Will you need a tent for your trek or will they be provided? We would recommend a sleeping pad as well. If you’d like to reach out and email us at contact@bearfoottheory.com we can provide you with additional links to great articles and packing lists on our site to help you prepare for your trip. Sounds like an incredible adventure you have ahead of you!
Just what I was going to say. This is nice list of gear for anyone who has, say, a couple of thousand dollars to drop on a three-day (two-night?) backpacking trip.
What is your total weight of your pack?
Hi Rolando, that really depends on how long you are going to be backpacking. For a 3-day backpacking trip, we recommend trying to keep your pack weight as minimal as possible, depending on if you need to carry water or not. A good rule of thumb is not having your pack weight more than 20% of your body weight.
It is interesting that trekking poles can help manage the weight on your hips and legs by using your arms. My wife and I are going on our first backpacking trip in three months and we are trying to get everything together. We may consider going to a few camping stores near us to see what they recommend we bring too.
Hi James,
So exciting to hear you and your wife are getting into backpacking! Trekking poles are a game-changer on the trail. We have a ton of comprehensive blog posts here about backpacking that you’ll probably find helpful. I suggest you start here: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-101/ Let us know where you go and if you have any questions!
On my must pack list is a brightly colored bandana or two. So many uses; shade, neck warmer/cooler, dishrag, splint maker, wash rag, hunter safety gear (thus, brightly colored), and on and on. Thanks for great list, Kristen!
My thoughts, exactly…Black Diamond everything! If I’m going to spend $1000, might as well be in a hotel. There are countless other, just as good, options out there. Off-Brand does not always mean that you are compromising durability and/or performance. Do yourself a favor and think logically–don’t always believe sites like this. Some great info in here, I’ll agree, but focus on being “prepared,” and not showing off at the trailhead as you unload from your Volvo.
Ho! these are some really good checklist, thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank you. I will try everything on my first hike this fall.
Thanks for reading, happy hiking!
What are your thoughts on a woman hiking solo? Safe?
We thinking hiking solo as women can be done safely. In fact, it can be fun and empowering. Check out this blog post for more on this topic as well as safety tips for solo hiking: https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/
Thanks for this list, I’m planning out my first backpacking trip for myself and my husband and struggling to find a minimalist approach! I don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink but every blog seems to have twenty million things that are unnecessary. I’m looking forward to following your list! Any tips on seating? My husband is struggling with not being able to pack his giant camping chair.
Hi Claire – we know what you mean! Taking only what you need to be safe and comfortable will help you have a better experience. If you’re suffering under the weight of your pack it’s hard to have a good time. The Helinox Chair Zero in the blog post below is a good option. It’s super lightweight and packs down small making it great for backpacking. The REI Trail Chair in the same blog post is a good option as well if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Another option is a lightweight, folding stool (just search “camp stool” online and you should be able to find a few options). Happy hiking!
Look up thermarest trekker chair. It converts/folds your sleeping pad into a sitting position.
That’s a great suggestion, thank you!
I will definitely keep this in mind in my next travels. thank you!
Thanks for reading!
What is your total weight including pack for 3 days?
Also check out Lume deodorant on line. Some folks can go 72 hours with out stink. Safe for any body part. And no I don’t work for Lume, just having great results.
It varies depending on a few factors including the weather (how much warmth, rain gear, and shelter we have to pack for example) and whether a bear canister is needed which adds a little weight as well. I’d say our standard pack weight is anywhere from 15-30 lbs depending on how lightweight we’re going. And thanks for that deodorant recommendation!
Hi, thanks for taking the time to write these articles and share them, much appreciated. I have shared them on my own webpage/blog with my own followers as well – spreading the love.
Thanks Tania!
I was meant to find this post. I am a woman about to go on my first 3 day hiking/backpacking trip. I can’t tell you how helpful this info is. Thank you so much!
You’re welcome – happy trails!
The point is that if you’re looking to list existing products – it pays to ensure that you’re using the most effective techniques to instill trust, desire, and confidence in your buyers.
I love the mansplainers out there shaming her for touting nice gear. We all like to spend on different things. Some of us might go to REI to pick up a fun toy or two, and the rest of us probably have the brains to know how to substitute a cheaper item or repurpose something we have. First timers can also borrow gear from friends or neighbors before they commit to more frequent backpackers. It’s a great way to figure out what you like. This list was very helpful, Kim. Thanks.
As others have said…THANK YOU. I have not backpacked in 8+ years and this was a great reminder and check list. I actually cannot believe some of the folks who harassed you about buying quality gear…guess their Momma never told them that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything”…you would think they would have learned that on the trail. Their packs must get heavy carrying all that hate around…lose the weight! Franklly, I am always looking for ways to time weight and cost, but that is part of the fun and the process. Thanks again for a great list/refresher as I plan a 3 day in the Smokey’s!
So glad to hear you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip to the Smokey’s, and welcome back to backpacking! We actually have a fall travel guide for the park here in case you need help planning: https://bearfoottheory.com/smoky-mountains-fall-guide/
This is a very nice list, but if you put all these things together, the weight is not going to be ideal. The tent and sleeping bag is just about 6 lbs for start. All these are good products, but for the weight conscious, I would definitely be going for lighter items, if you don’t mind the weight, great list.
Hi Nikki, thanks for the input! These are the gear items we’ve personally carried when backpacking, even though they might not be the lightest on the market. For someone just starting out, buying gear can be really expensive so we’ve tried to strike a good balance between cost and weight in our recommendations. However, we’re working on an ultralight backpacking gear guide at the moment which will focus more on lightweight items.
Do you have an article on what you pack for food for a three day hike? I have always day hiked, and know my go to list for snacks, but haven’t ever done overnights, so not sure what to bring for calorie packed real meals. Thanks.
Thanks since I’ve become an old man I haven’t backpacked in a few years. So this was a good reminder. Appreciate you taking the time to post this. All the best for a safe and healthy season. Dave H Fort kent, Maine
Pretty nice list! I need to have a look at the Nemo sleeping pad, my Thermarest is annoying me so much recently.. Need something light and rectangular.
I’m totally with you re: trying to find a comfortable and convenient way to carry photography gear. Have you tried the Peak Design capture clip? I’ve used it for day hikes and have liked it so far but am not sure how it will work for weekend backpacking trips. Of course, even with the clip you’d need some decent bag for protection if you’re going through rough terrain or if the elements don’t cooperate. I like your approach with the sling though. 🙂
I have tried the Peak Design clip. They are pretty cool and I might be taking one with me on my upcoming trip to Nepal.
Check out Cotton Carrier’s Strapshot camera holster for your DSLR. It wraps around your backpack shoulder strap and provides a secure place to hang your camera with a 1/4 turn quick release and safety tether. I use it and have the full chest harness.
(I’m not at all associated with them, just find their gear really convenient.)
Thanks for the good read.
I also use the cotton carrier system – a disc screws into the tripod attachment of my camera (I pack in a Sony a6000 with an 18-200mm lens) and then there’s a holster that clips/velcros on to my backpack strap on my shoulder. You keep the strap around your neck for safety (more than twice I’ve been over, the camera unhooked from the carrier and I would have dropped it without the neck strap!) and then the camera is easily accessible when you want to shoot something. The downside is no protection from dust/moisture, so on dusty trails I’m brushing off the lens a lot. But it went with me to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro and numerous 2-7 day backpacking trips with a large ziplock in my bag for water protection if needed. Love this setup.
I love my cotton carrier. I carry a full sized Nikon on it..have for 3 years… zero accidental disconnects… its tough for a piece of plastic too….
Great list Kristen, these checklists are so handy for people that are new to doing these kind of hikes.
Have a great holidays!
Stephen
– Uncharted Backpacker
This is an awesome and very specific list! It’s very helpful you listed brands that you specifically like to use!
Just got the Montrail hiking boots. Loving it so far. Great list.
I THINK I obtained permits for Havasu Falls for this spring (I received confirmation emails, but still have a fear something may go wrong, but I’m hoping for the best). Starting to plan and struggle with what camera equipment to bring. I have a Nikon d7100 that I love, but would like to get by with just my 35 mm/1.8 lens. Think that’s wide enough to get good waterfall shots?
Hey Des, I’d highly recommend a wide angle lens. I brought a 16-35mm last time and it worked out perfectly. Have fun!
Amazing list! Seems to be the go-to stuff when comparing to other lists. That said, I\’d strongly suggest bringing a compass and map! On a longer trip would you change change the gear or simply bring a few more items of clothes?
Thanks Sean for the added recommendation of a compass and map! For a longer trip I would just recommend having at least one change of clothes in case of weather or for added layering. I backpacked the entire PCT for 5 months with only 2 shirts and 2 pairs of bottoms, so you definitely don’t need to expand on bringing more items necessarily.
A great list and this is going to be so useful to me. I go on treks very frequently and usually don’t get much time for backpacking. Thanks a lot for posting!
You literally just saved my life. Thank you for making this list!
Its always good to have a small extra knife just to be sure and ready for everything. A roadeavour knife wont add that much. only a size of a credit card. but very reliable.
Also a good thing to have is a collapsible water bottle like the one in roadeavour
n NZ if I went hiking with an umbrella, I would be laughed out of the hills. It would be really good to see exactly what you take in all the small bags, as this is wear weight accumulates and my pack gets heavy. Thanks for sharing.
Hey man, this is a very specific and a great list. Thanks for sharing with us such a awesome list.
Great list Kristen. Thanks for taking the time to put this stuff together. Your site is full of great info. I do the same stuff on a much less professional level on my youtube channel. Your site always has a few gems that even experienced hikers can find useful. Keep up the good work!
Thanks good stuff
Wow you hit the lottery? Most hikers couldn’t afford have your list. Anyone can go into a REI and buy the best available but a true backpacker can use whats handy and go on a trip. I am an assistant scout master for a Boy Scout troop and do trips including gas for a 3 hour trip, food for 12 and snacks for around 12 bucks each using basic gear for 3 days on the trail. Contact me and I can teach you how to hike on a tight budget.
I am so grateful to have stumble across your website. I am a beach bum. I have only done one day hikes. But, I have been invited to a three day hike in Korea. I will be doing the Jirisan Nature Reserve over three days. I have a bag and sleeping bag. That’s it. What elae do I need to prepare for this three day trek? It will be in September. Your help would be appreciated. I am an Expat teaching in Korea. I am exploring Korea through Hikes and wone tasting. I am open to suggestion.
Hi Gabriela, we are so glad you found us! Will you need a tent for your trek or will they be provided? We would recommend a sleeping pad as well. If you’d like to reach out and email us at contact@bearfoottheory.com we can provide you with additional links to great articles and packing lists on our site to help you prepare for your trip. Sounds like an incredible adventure you have ahead of you!
Just what I was going to say. This is nice list of gear for anyone who has, say, a couple of thousand dollars to drop on a three-day (two-night?) backpacking trip.
What is your total weight of your pack?
Hi Rolando, that really depends on how long you are going to be backpacking. For a 3-day backpacking trip, we recommend trying to keep your pack weight as minimal as possible, depending on if you need to carry water or not. A good rule of thumb is not having your pack weight more than 20% of your body weight.
It is interesting that trekking poles can help manage the weight on your hips and legs by using your arms. My wife and I are going on our first backpacking trip in three months and we are trying to get everything together. We may consider going to a few camping stores near us to see what they recommend we bring too.
Hi James,
So exciting to hear you and your wife are getting into backpacking! Trekking poles are a game-changer on the trail. We have a ton of comprehensive blog posts here about backpacking that you’ll probably find helpful. I suggest you start here: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-101/ Let us know where you go and if you have any questions!
On my must pack list is a brightly colored bandana or two. So many uses; shade, neck warmer/cooler, dishrag, splint maker, wash rag, hunter safety gear (thus, brightly colored), and on and on. Thanks for great list, Kristen!
My thoughts, exactly…Black Diamond everything! If I’m going to spend $1000, might as well be in a hotel. There are countless other, just as good, options out there. Off-Brand does not always mean that you are compromising durability and/or performance. Do yourself a favor and think logically–don’t always believe sites like this. Some great info in here, I’ll agree, but focus on being “prepared,” and not showing off at the trailhead as you unload from your Volvo.
Ho! these are some really good checklist, thanks for sharing 🙂
Thank you. I will try everything on my first hike this fall.
Thanks for reading, happy hiking!
What are your thoughts on a woman hiking solo? Safe?
We thinking hiking solo as women can be done safely. In fact, it can be fun and empowering. Check out this blog post for more on this topic as well as safety tips for solo hiking: https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/
Thanks for this list, I’m planning out my first backpacking trip for myself and my husband and struggling to find a minimalist approach! I don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink but every blog seems to have twenty million things that are unnecessary. I’m looking forward to following your list! Any tips on seating? My husband is struggling with not being able to pack his giant camping chair.
Hi Claire – we know what you mean! Taking only what you need to be safe and comfortable will help you have a better experience. If you’re suffering under the weight of your pack it’s hard to have a good time. The Helinox Chair Zero in the blog post below is a good option. It’s super lightweight and packs down small making it great for backpacking. The REI Trail Chair in the same blog post is a good option as well if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Another option is a lightweight, folding stool (just search “camp stool” online and you should be able to find a few options). Happy hiking!
https://bearfoottheory.com/best-camp-chairs/
Look up thermarest trekker chair. It converts/folds your sleeping pad into a sitting position.
That’s a great suggestion, thank you!
I will definitely keep this in mind in my next travels. thank you!
Thanks for reading!
What is your total weight including pack for 3 days?
Also check out Lume deodorant on line. Some folks can go 72 hours with out stink. Safe for any body part. And no I don’t work for Lume, just having great results.
It varies depending on a few factors including the weather (how much warmth, rain gear, and shelter we have to pack for example) and whether a bear canister is needed which adds a little weight as well. I’d say our standard pack weight is anywhere from 15-30 lbs depending on how lightweight we’re going. And thanks for that deodorant recommendation!
Hi, thanks for taking the time to write these articles and share them, much appreciated. I have shared them on my own webpage/blog with my own followers as well – spreading the love.
Thanks Tania!
I was meant to find this post. I am a woman about to go on my first 3 day hiking/backpacking trip. I can’t tell you how helpful this info is. Thank you so much!
You’re welcome – happy trails!
The point is that if you’re looking to list existing products – it pays to ensure that you’re using the most effective techniques to instill trust, desire, and confidence in your buyers.
I love the mansplainers out there shaming her for touting nice gear. We all like to spend on different things. Some of us might go to REI to pick up a fun toy or two, and the rest of us probably have the brains to know how to substitute a cheaper item or repurpose something we have. First timers can also borrow gear from friends or neighbors before they commit to more frequent backpackers. It’s a great way to figure out what you like. This list was very helpful, Kim. Thanks.
Where’s your straw hat from though?? So cute!
It’s a Wallaroo Sedona Hat. My favorite wide-brimmed hat!
As others have said…THANK YOU. I have not backpacked in 8+ years and this was a great reminder and check list. I actually cannot believe some of the folks who harassed you about buying quality gear…guess their Momma never told them that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything”…you would think they would have learned that on the trail. Their packs must get heavy carrying all that hate around…lose the weight! Franklly, I am always looking for ways to time weight and cost, but that is part of the fun and the process. Thanks again for a great list/refresher as I plan a 3 day in the Smokey’s!
So glad to hear you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip to the Smokey’s, and welcome back to backpacking! We actually have a fall travel guide for the park here in case you need help planning: https://bearfoottheory.com/smoky-mountains-fall-guide/
This is a very nice list, but if you put all these things together, the weight is not going to be ideal. The tent and sleeping bag is just about 6 lbs for start. All these are good products, but for the weight conscious, I would definitely be going for lighter items, if you don’t mind the weight, great list.
Hi Nikki, thanks for the input! These are the gear items we’ve personally carried when backpacking, even though they might not be the lightest on the market. For someone just starting out, buying gear can be really expensive so we’ve tried to strike a good balance between cost and weight in our recommendations. However, we’re working on an ultralight backpacking gear guide at the moment which will focus more on lightweight items.
Do you have an article on what you pack for food for a three day hike? I have always day hiked, and know my go to list for snacks, but haven’t ever done overnights, so not sure what to bring for calorie packed real meals. Thanks.
Hi Melanie, this blog post gives tips for what to pack for backpacking food, how much to bring, and our personal favorites: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-food-ideas/
Thanks since I’ve become an old man I haven’t backpacked in a few years. So this was a good reminder. Appreciate you taking the time to post this. All the best for a safe and healthy season. Dave H Fort kent, Maine