How To: Pack & Plan for Your First Backpacking Trip

_{Can you spot my tent?!}

Whether you’re new to backpacking or just looking for some extra tips, you’ve come to the right place! Backpacking, much like hiking, is such an essential part of my life. While hiking is a great day time activity, backpacking really lets you delve deeper into the wild and explore further into nature. For these reasons, it is especially important to ensure you have all the proper gear and tools for an enjoyable adventure while also staying safe!

Let’s start first with the essentials. I’ve also included links to all of the items below for reference.

Please note: items listed vary depending on the time of year and season. This list is not all-inclusive, but rather is meant to serve as a helpful guide.

Gear Essentials:

Backpack- 55L Pack good for 5-6 days worth of adventure
Tent- REI Half Dome (2 persons) or REI Trailmade (1 person)
Ground pad- Big Agnes, great for side and back sleepers like me, it’s also insulated to keep you warmer from the cold ground in those frigid winter months
Sleeping system (quilt or bag)- highly recommend Enlightened Equipment Quilt for an ultra-lightweight option or the Klymit sleeping bag
Extra lightweight blanket- pair with your sleeping system for an extra layer of warmth or to keep you cozy around the fire at night-if you’re able to build one at your campsite!- Rumpl NanoLoft
Dry bag- make sure to keep your belongings dry in this Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack, Ultralight Dry Bag because who likes putting on wet clothes and gear?
Nalgene + hydration bladder– good for carrying extra water if there won’t be many water sources available on your trek
Water purification tablets– in case you run out of your packed water and need to recharge quickly. Note: some tablets have different wait times once you plop them into your water- I like the 30 min tablets versus the 2 hr ones myself
Power bank/charger– I like the slim design and triple input sources on this one.
Headlamp– I like mine to have a redlight option for those late nights/early mornings. Note: it’s always a good idea to have a spare set of batteries just in case!
Food- Backpackers Pantry or Mountain House are always solid choices
Utensils– although hands work too, I prefer this option most times after a long day on the trail
Bear canister– make sure yours is specifically approved by the IGBC or you run the risk of being turned away from your trek. I’ve also included the list of currently approved canisters below.
Bear spray– depending on the time of year
Multi-tool
Medical kit

Nice to haves:

Jetboil– because there’s nothing quite like warm food/coffee in the backcountry–I would even argue hot coffee is an essential item, but that’s just me!
Cookset– I like the one by Snow Peak, it even comes with 2 cups perfect for your morning coffee or late night beverages
Camping chair
Pillow
Trekking poles
Backpack rain cover
Bug spray/sunscreen
Chapstick– because no one likes sunburnt or chapped lips
Sunglasses
Hat/beanie

Don’t Forget About Your Furry Friend(s)

Portable bowls
Dog saddlebag so your pup can finally pull their weight on the trails
Doggie med kit or blood clotting kit
Booties and/or paw wax to protect those sweet little toe beans
Sleeping bag- if your pup doesn’t have as much floof like mine!
Poop bags and Pack Out Bag because remember to “leave no trace”

Bear Canisters That Are Currently IGBC Approved:

All in all, wherever you choose to go, don’t forget these few, but crucial, planning and safety tips:

Check the weather
Download your map(s) ahead of time
Share your location and/or tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back
Have a copy of your backpacking permit if required

I hope this has been a helpful resource to get you better acquainted to the world of backpacking and more comfortable in your outdoor adventures. Happy trails all!

3–4 minutes