Choose the lightest-weight versions of the items on this list that you can find, afford or feel comfortable with. Organizing your gear into systems can be a good way to remember to pack what you need.
Hiking System
Navigation System
- Map
- Compass
- Cellphone (opt.)
- Solar/portable charger (opt.)
- GPS (opt.)
- Personal locator beacon (opt.)
- Route description
- Permits
Shelter System
Sleep System
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow (opt.)
Cooking System
- Stove
- Fuel
- Mini lighter and stormproof matches
- Mug and/or pot
- Spork
- 1” x 2” sponge
- Small metal drain screen for rinse water
Food Storage System
- Food bag
- Stuff sack for hanging (opt.)
- Bear bag/bear canister (if required)
Water System
- Water filtration system
- Purification drops or tablets
- Soft-sided water bottles
Clothing Systems
For Hiking:
- Hiking or trail-running shoes
- Synthetic or wool T-shirt
- Hiking or running shorts (1 pair)
- Hiking pants (1 pair)
- Synthetic or wool underwear (2 pairs)
- Sports bra
- Synthetic or wool socks (2 pairs)
- Sun-protective hat
- Sun-protective gloves (opt.)
- Bandana
For Camp:
- Long-underwear top
- Long-underwear bottoms
- Warm hat
- Wool or synthetic socks for sleep
- Puffy insulated jacket or vest
- Sandals (opt.)
For Foul Weather:
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Waterproof rain pants
- Warm gloves
- Waterproof gloves/mitts
Hygiene/Toiletries System
Bring only as much as you anticipate needing.
- Zip-top bags (varied sizes for waste, food, etc.)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toothpaste or baking soda
- Small toothbrush
- Biodegradable soap
- Toilet paper (2-4 squares per day)
- Pre-moistened wipes (2 per day)
- Sanitation trowel
- Menstrual products
- Women’s pee funnel
- Women’s pee rag (1/4 cotton bandana)
- Prescription medications
First-Aid Kit
- Blister pads
- Gauze pads
- Bandages
- Antibiotic ointment (small packet)
- Pain-relief pills
Miscellaneous
- Headlamp or microlight with fresh batteries
- Extra batteries (opt.)
- Safety whistle (with neck cord)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Sunglasses
- Hat with insect-mesh (opt.)
- Gaiters (if needed)
- Ice traction devices (if needed)
- Ice axe (if needed)
- Small amount of cash
- Credit card
- Itinerary copies (for friend + under car seat)
Repair Kit
Bring only as much as you anticipate needing.
- Gear-repair and/or duct tape
- Sewing needle and nylon thread
- Razor blade or small knife
Luxury Items
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Journal or sketchbook
- Pen or pencil
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