Backpacking Checklist

Our Backpacking Checklist is offered as a near minimum for a safe and comfortable backpack outing.

At first glance the list may appear extensive, but many of the items will be shared with other members in your hiking party. Pre-planning will prevent duplication. Divvy up shared items among all the packs.

When you return from a trip, eliminate the "extras" you thought you'd use and didn't. After a few trips you'll know your personal requirements and the best place for everything in your pack.

Printable version (PDF)

Happy Hiking!

FOOD/COOKING

  • __ Stove/Stove Fuel
  • __ Cook Kit/Drinking Cup
  • __ Eating/Cooking Utensils
  • __ Matches In a
        Waterproof Container
  • __ Spices/Seasonings
  • __ Powdered Milk/Sugar
  • __ Coffee/Tea/Drink Mixes
  • __ Cooking Oil
  • __ Dehydrated Food
  • __ Trail Snacks
  • __ Plastic Bags For Food
        Storage And To Pack
        Out Trash

Most backpacking foods, drink mixes, and snacks are packaged in aluminum foil. Aluminum foil doesn't burn and isn't degradable. If you pack it in, please pack it out!

Many grocery store food items backpack well, but they often use excess packaging. Eliminate and recycle as much of this extra material as possible at home, before you load your pack.

NECESSITIES

  • __ Topographical Map or
        Map Case
  • __ Silva® System Compass
  • __ Flashlight
  • __ Extra Flashlight
        Batteries/Bulb
  • __ Knife/Sharpener
  • __ Nylon Cord (30 Ft.)
  • __ Candle Lantern/Candles
  • __ Needle/Thread
  • __ Nylon Repair Tape or
         Duct Tape

SHELTER

  • __ Eureka!® Tent, Floor
        Saver & Optional Vestibule
  • __ Sleeping Bag
  • __ Sleeping Pad
        (Foam Or Self-Inflating)
  • __ Lightweight Tarp for a
        Ground Cloth or
        as an Emergency Shelter

TOILETRIES

  • __ Toothbrush/Paste
  • __ Biodegradable Soap
  • __ Toilet Paper
  • __ Sanitary Supplies *
  • __ Towel

CLOTHING

  • __ Socks—Both Heavy Weight
        & Light Liners
  • __ Underwear
  • __ Hat
  • __ Polypropylene Underwear *
  • __ Down Vest or
        Light Sweater or
        Synthetic Fleece Jacket
  • __ Parka *
  • __ Windbreaker
  • __ Rain Gear—Poncho
        Or Rain Suit
  • __ Bandanas
  • __ Swim Suit *
  • __ Gloves *
  • __ Hiking Shorts/Trousers
  • __ Shirt
  • __ Hiking Boots
  • __ Running Shoes/Moccasins
        for in Camp
  • __ Polarguard/Down Booties

MEDICAL

  • __ Moleskin
  • __ First Aid—Survival Kit
  • __ Allergy Restrictions *
  • __ Medic Alert ID
  • __ Sunglasses
  • __ Lip Balm
  • __ Sunscreen *
  • __ Insect Repellent
  • __ Water Purification Filter
        or Tablets

PERMITS/IDENTIFICATION

  • __ Fire/Camping Permits
  • __ Fishing/Hunting Licenses
  • __ Personal Identification

SAFETY MEASURE

Always leave a detailed trip schedule, in writing, with a responsible person!

OPTIONAL

  • __ Camera/Film
  • __ Notebook/Pen
  • __ Field Guides
  • __ Playing Cards
  • __ Nylon Water Bag
  • __ Nylon Stuff Bags
        for Organizers
  • __ Compact Board Games
  • __ Assorted Fish Hooks
        and Light Line


* optional depending on the season, weather, geography, and personal need.