{"id":21154,"date":"2016-08-04T11:21:26","date_gmt":"2016-08-04T18:21:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=21154"},"modified":"2025-01-10T13:50:26","modified_gmt":"2025-01-10T21:50:26","slug":"arches-national-park-backpacking-packing-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/travel\/arches-national-park-backpacking-packing-list","title":{"rendered":"Arches National Park Backpacking Packing List"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The following list is designed for a non-guided backpacking trip in Arches National Park. (For information about visiting the park, see\u00a0our guide<\/a>.) The list includes some environment-specific options for the park\u2019s desert backcountry. If you\u2019re going with a commercial group, check with the guide company to see what items they provide.<\/p>\n

Included in this list are the Ten Essential Systems you should have on every backcountry trip: navigation; sun protection; insulation; illumination; first-aid supplies; fire starter; repair kit and tools; nutrition; hydration; emergency shelter. To learn more, see our\u00a0Ten Essentials article<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Equipment<\/h3>\n

When it comes to backpacking in Arches, water is a special consideration. Natural sources of water are few and far between. Water you might find in potholes is needed by wildlife and can be easily contaminated by skin oils, salt, sunscreen or soap. Packing in all you\u2019ll need will make your time in the backcountry safer and simpler. One to two gallons per day is recommended, depending on your activity level and the temperature. That\u2019s just for drinking. For hygiene and cooking, you\u2019ll need more.<\/p>\n

The backpacking pack you choose will need to have enough space for your whole water supply.<\/p>\n