Backpacking Checklist

Note: This list is intentionally extensive; not every backpacker will bring every item on every trip.

For printer-friendly version, click Print Checklist (PDF) at right.

The Ten Essentials

(for safety, survival and basic comfort)

1. Navigation

• Map (with protective case)
• Compass

• GPS (optional)

2. Sun protection

• Sunscreen and lip balm

• Sunglasses

3. Insulation

• Jacket, vest, pants, gloves, hat (see Clothing)

4. Illumination

• Headlamp or flashlight (plus spare)

• Extra batteries

5. First-aid supplies

• First-aid kit (see our First-aid checklist)

6. Fire

• Matches or lighter
• Waterproof container

• Fire starter (for emergency survival fire)

7. Repair kit and tools

• Knife or multi-tool

• Kits for stove, mattress; duct tape strips

8. Nutrition

• Extra day's supply of food

9. Hydration

• Water bottles or hydration system

• Water filter or other treatment system

10. Emergency shelter

• Tent, tarp, bivy or reflective blanket

Beyond the Ten Essentials

• Backpack
• Daypack or summit pack
• Pack cover
• Tent, tarp or bivy sack (with stakes, guylines)
• Tent-pole repair sleeve
• Footprint (if needed for tent)
• Sleeping bag
• Stuff sack or compression sack
• Sleeping pad
• Pillow or stuffable pillow case
• Whistle (plus signaling mirror)
• Multifunction watch with altimeter
• Trekking poles
• Ice axe

• Meals
• Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
• Energy beverages or drink mixes
• Stove
• Fuel
• Cookset (with pot grabber)
• Dishes or bowls
• Utensils
• Cups (measuring cups)
• Food-storage canister (or hang bags)
• Nylon cord (50 feet for hanging food)
• Backup water treatment (e.g., halogens)
• Collapsible sink or container
• Packable lantern

Clothing options: Warm weather

• Wicking T-shirt (synthetic or wool)
• Wicking underwear
• Quick-drying pants or shorts

• Long-sleeve shirt (for sun, bugs)
• Sun-shielding hat
• Bandana or Buff

Cool weather (insulation in Ten Essentials)

• Wicking long-sleeve T-shirt
• Wicking long underwear (good sleepwear)
• Hat, cap, skullcap, balaclava or headband

• Gloves or mittens
• Rainwear (jacket, pants)
• Fleece jacket or vest, and pants

Footwear; assorted personal items

• Boots or shoes suited to terrain
• Socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares
• Gaiters
• Sandals (for fording, in camp)
• Camera and memory cards
• Binoculars
• Permits
• Route description or guidebook
• Field guide(s); star identifier
• Notebook and pen or pencil
• Credit card; small amount of cash
• Music player with headphones
• Toilet paper
• _______________

• Sanitation trowel
• Hand sanitizer
• Insect repellant
• Headnet
• Toothbrush and/or toiletry kit
• Biodegradable soap (and shower bag)
• Biodegradable soap
• Quick-dry towel
• Two-way radios
• Cell or satellite phone
• Post-hike snacks, water, towel, clothing change
• Trip itinerary left w/ friend + under car seat
• _______________

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