Essential Guide to Packing for a Backpacking Trip – Must-Have Items and Pro Tips

Packing efficiently for a backpacking adventure can determine whether your journey is pleasant or, at best, stressful and draining—or at worst, puts you in harm’s way.

Proper equipment, thoughtful preparation, and strategic packing will set you up for a rewarding backpacking adventure. No matter your skill level—novice or seasoned trekker—this guide outlines the must-have gear for backpacking, along with advice for tailoring your loadout according to weather conditions, landscape, and trip length.

Essential Items to Pack for a Two-Night Backpacking Adventure (Complete checklist provided at the article’s conclusion):

• A backpack with a capacity ranging from 30 to 50 liters.
• Sleeping equipment: Tent or hammock, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, camping pillow (if desired)
• Camping and meal essentials: Portable stove, cooking pot, spork, Backpacker’s Pantry food items, light bites
• Water purification: Water filtration or treatment setup, 2-3 liters of water storage per individual
• Essential equipment for navigation and safety: map, compass, GPS unit, medical supplies, emergency whistle
• Clothing: Base garments, insulating layers, weatherproof shell, additional socks, trail footwear, leisure shoes for camp
• Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste, hand sanitizer, a trowel or Wag Bags, eco-friendly toilet paper, and any necessary personal medications.
• Wildlife protection: Bear spray along with bear-resistant containers, Ursack, or equipment for hanging food away from bears

Must-Have Items for Your Backpack: A Detailed Guide

Backpack

Selecting the right backpack is essential for your journey, as it’s among the most important gear you’ll carry. The correct size, fit, and functionality are crucial factors to consider.

Internal versus External Frame:Internal frames are currently the most popular choice, featuring a streamlined design and improved weight balance, whereas external frames can offer enhanced airflow and are ideal for carrying large, cumbersome items. While you might come across old pictures of hikers with external frames and classic outfits, the majority of modern backpackers prefer packs with internal frames.

Capacity:When backpacking, a good guideline is to keep your pack under 20% of your body weight. This limit will help determine the appropriate pack size. For a two-night excursion, a 30-50L pack usually works best, whereas extended trips might necessitate a 50-70L capacity. Make sure there’s sufficient space for food, water, and equipment so you don’t have to attach items externally.

Fit:To achieve a proper fit when adjusting a backpack, it’s essential to customize the torso length and ensure the majority of the weight rests on your hips rather than your shoulders.

Features:Do you favor a roll-top backpack? Is having an integrated rain cover essential for you? Would you rather hike using a hydration reservoir or carry water bottles? Given the wide variety of backpacks available, you can explore different options to find the ideal features suited to your needs.

Shelter and Sleeping Equipment

Selecting gear that is light, sturdy, and suited to the weather is essential for both safety and maintaining high spirits, even on a short weekend trip.

Selecting a backpacking tent requires attention to the season rating, capacity, and weight. A 3-season tent is generally lighter and offers better ventilation, making it ideal for spring, summer, and fall excursions. It can handle light rain and wind but isn’t suited for heavy snowfall. For winter adventures, a 4-season tent is the better choice, featuring stronger poles and durable fabric to endure extreme weather, though this robustness increases weight and bulk. Unless you’re backpacking in winter or severe conditions, a 3-season tent is recommended—it’s lighter, more affordable, and performs effectively for most trips.

A 2-person tent is an ideal option if you want just one tent, as it provides ample room for both you and your equipment (or a hiking buddy) while remaining lightweight. Carrying it solo won’t be a burden, and sharing the tent with a partner can make the experience more enjoyable. Keep in mind that a tent’s stated capacity isn’t a recommendation—it’s an extremely snug fit. Unless you’re traveling with children, don’t count on fitting three adults comfortably in a 2-person tent.

Consider the setup style as well. Freestanding tents are simple to assemble and can be repositioned before securing them, making them ideal for rocky or irregular terrain. Additionally, they maintain their structure effectively.

Semi-freestanding tents are not as widely used and typically need stakes to maintain their shape. They provide a balance between the spaciousness of freestanding designs and a lighter overall weight.

To reduce weight, explore options such as tarps, single-wall tents, and non-freestanding shelters. Single-wall tents are lightweight and simple to pitch, though they tend to be compact. Tarps and non-freestanding shelters are extremely light but offer limited protection and often lack a floor, making them ideal for trips in mild conditions.

Your decision hinges on the situations you’ll face and your personal comfort needs. For the majority, a freestanding 3-season tent weighing 2-3 pounds offers an ideal mix of convenience, lightweight design, and adaptability.

Discovering the Ideal Sleep Equipment for You

Selecting a sleeping bag requires checking temperature ratings and picking one that aligns with the coldest conditions you expect. Down sleeping bags, while costly, offer superior warmth relative to their weight, along with long-lasting performance and easy compression. Synthetic bags, though heavier and less insulating, excel in resisting moisture. For backpacking in hot climates, a lightweight camping quilt could be the ideal choice.

When choosing a sleeping pad, insulation and comfort are the primary considerations. Although inflatable pads were traditionally heavier, newer ultra-lightweight inflatable models now rival foam pads in weight while offering greater comfort and elevation from the cold ground. However, inflatable pads carry the potential for punctures, whereas foam pads—which attach securely to your pack—are more dependable and far more affordable.

Some consider it a luxury, yet it’s remarkably lightweight. For us, a camping pillow offers significant comfort and a morale lift while adding just ounces to your pack. An inflatable version is often a worthwhile investment compared to using dirty clothes in a stuff sack. Check out our guide on improving sleep during backpacking trips for additional insights.

Preparing Meals and Kitchen Gear for Backpacking Trips

When organizing meals for your backpacking trip, prioritize high-energy foods and the essential cookware. For a lightweight and straightforward approach, opt for freeze-dried Backpacker’s Pantry meals and instant oatmeal, which only need a compact water pot, bowl, and spork. If you prefer more elaborate dishes, like fresh vegetables with dinner, include a lightweight cutting board, knife, and an additional pot or pan separate from your boiling vessel. Although you might use small kitchen items from home, specialized backpacking equipment designed to be light and compact could be a worthwhile investment.

Consider packing protein bars, freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, or chocolate bars to boost spirits after a demanding day. PB&J wraps remain a trail lunch favorite. Striking the right balance between weight and convenience can be challenging, but carrying an additional day’s supply of food is wise in case of injuries or unexpected setbacks.

A compact stove is a must-have for any backpacking adventure, serving the dual purpose of preparing meals and purifying water. It’s advisable to purchase—and inspect before each outing—either a canister stove or a white gas stove equipped with a reusable fuel container. Numerous models include a matching lightweight pot for added convenience.

Planning Water for a Backpacking Trip

Water is the most crucial element in your food preparation, and your strategy for planning and packing it depends heavily on the location and timing of your backpacking trip.

When hiking in areas with lakes or streams close to the trail, you might choose between a water filter, purification drops, or a combination of the two. While some travelers prioritize reducing weight by skipping the filter, we recommend using one to gather larger quantities of water more efficiently.

Even with dependable water sources available, organize your daily trail route based on where you can refill and the amount of water you must carry. Aim to have 2-3 liters of water with you if clean sources are reasonably accessible along your path. For instance, while backpacking in the Rockies during early summer, every mapped lake and stream will provide plenty of water for refills, eliminating the need to top off your dromedary at each stop. However, if hiking the same trail in October, refill your bottles and dromedaries whenever possible, as some creeks or small lakes may have dried up by then.

When planning a backpacking trip in the desert, prioritizing water is essential. If your chosen trail has unreliable water sources, ensure you carry sufficient water for yourself and your group until the next confirmed source—after verifying its availability for that season. For trails with no water access, pack a minimum of two liters per day and avoid using water for cleaning unless absolutely necessary.

Planning water needs for backpacking doesn’t follow a strict rule, yet dehydration remains one of the most critical risks in the wilderness. No matter how much drinking water you calculate for daily use, it’s wise to pack extra to handle potential first-aid situations, such as cleaning wounds.

Navigational and Safety Equipment

Navigating the backcountry successfully requires unwavering focus. Always bring a traditional map and compass, regardless of whether you rely on a GPS watch or apps such as AllTrails. Should your electronic device fail, these tools are essential for staying on track or regaining your path. If you become lost or face an emergency on the trail, it’s crucial to have a satellite communicator (such as the Garmin inReach) or a personal locator beacon to signal for assistance or aid search and rescue efforts.

A well-stocked first aid kit must contain essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter and personal medicines, and blister treatment at the very least. The kit ought to be carried by the individual with the most advanced medical expertise during your journey and kept within easy reach in their backpack. Consider adding items such as tape or wraps for sprains, along with burn treatment or a SAM splint, depending on your needs.

In addition to a first aid kit, carry a multi-tool equipped with a knife, screwdriver, and scissors for handling minor trail or camp repairs. Your first aid kit should also contain emergency supplies such as a fire starter and an emergency blanket for more serious situations. Every member of your group must have a whistle attached to their pack. While sticking together or pairing up when leaving camp is ideal, a whistle becomes crucial if someone gets lost—it helps locate the missing person or signals the group’s position. The sound can also alert search and rescue teams or deter wildlife. When traveling in bear country, each individual should have a can of bear spray (and be familiar with its use) readily accessible on their backpack.

Essential Products for Hygiene and Personal Care

Maintaining cleanliness on the trail is crucial for both your well-being and comfort, but it’s equally vital to evaluate which toiletries are truly necessary for backpacking and which ones can be left behind. Begin with the fundamentals: a compact toothbrush, toothpaste, eco-friendly soap, and any required personal medications.

Before your trip, check if you’ll require a trowel to dig a cat hole along with biodegradable toilet paper or a Wag Bag for waste disposal. If you expect to use menstrual products, choose hygienic and comfortable options, and plan to carry out all used items.

What should you avoid bringing? Ideally, anything with a scent, if possible. For beginners, skipping deodorant might seem awkward, but you’ll soon realize that a lighter pack makes the trek more manageable—and nobody notices once you’re on the trail.

Choosing the Right Clothing and Layering for Backpacking Trips

Layering is essential for maintaining comfort in changing weather, and since pack space is limited on multi-day trips, carefully selecting your clothing is crucial. Just like the other equipment mentioned here, your choices largely depend on the timing and location of your backpacking adventure.

A summer desert backpacking adventure and a late-season mountain excursion differ significantly, but adopting a solid layering strategy remains essential. This method provides flexibility, enabling you to adjust layers as weather shifts or temperatures vary.

Outdoor apparel for hiking

Choose hiking attire that you’ve worn before and find comfortable. Even in hot weather, pants are recommended for protection and to reduce chafing. In warm conditions, avoid wearing a thin tank top or going shirtless to prevent shoulder irritation. Opt for a synthetic sunshirt or merino wool top instead. Based on sunlight, temperature, or insect activity, think about which layers to keep handy for easy adjustments during your backpacking trip.

Baselayers

When camping in hot weather during midsummer, you might refer to your baselayers as “camp clothes.” However, if you’re backpacking in the shoulder season or at high elevations where temperatures drop at night, these layers serve as the foundation against your skin. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends for both tops and bottoms, as they efficiently draw sweat away from your body to maintain dryness and warmth. Steer clear of cotton, as it retains moisture and takes longer to dry, raising the likelihood of hypothermia.

Mid-layers

No matter the time or location of your camping trip, a fleece layer or down jacket is excellent for sleeping or relaxing at camp. During chilly daytime hikes, these layers can also be useful. A fleece top works well as a mid-layer, providing warmth without adding excessive bulk. For extremely cold weather, fleece pants are a worthwhile addition. Alongside your fleece, a lightweight down or synthetic insulated jacket offers additional warmth and can be conveniently packed away when not in use.

Outer coverings

No matter if you’re exploring the desert or traversing the tundra, a reliable waterproof shell is essential for your gear. A rain jacket or shell with proven waterproofing, along with rain pants, doesn’t just shield you from moisture—it also provides warmth and wind protection. Since hypothermia poses a serious threat in remote areas, keeping your core dry is absolutely vital.

Extra elements

Essential items to include are hats (for sun protection and warmth), gloves (particularly during nighttime), a buff or neck gaiter, and sunglasses. Also, remember to pack socks. Aim for a minimum of two pairs made from synthetic or wool material, with an extra emergency pair stored in your sleeping bag. Wet socks can lead to serious issues, from hypothermia to painful blisters, so staying prepared is crucial.

While changing outfits daily or packing your bulkiest winter gear may not be practical, it’s smarter to be slightly overprepared to ensure warmth and dryness. You’ll regret not having your rain pants or gloves far more than you’ll mind carrying unused items.

Prepare Ahead! Try On Your New Shoes Before Wearing Them

When it comes to footwear, personal preference varies between trail runners and hiking boots. Hiking boots, though known for their weight, provide stability and shield hikers from rough landscapes, as well as wet or snowy conditions. On the other hand, trail runners are exceptionally light and comfortable but may lack the ability to handle heavy loads compared to boots. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual needs, but every backpacker should ensure their footwear is well-worn and tested before embarking on a journey.

Non-Mandatory Items

Camera:For photography enthusiasts, a small and lightweight camera can be incredibly useful, particularly when conserving your phone’s battery life is a priority.

Portable outdoor seat:Compact, lightweight camp chairs (such as Crazy Creeks) improve comfort at camp while remaining easy to carry and minimally bulky.

Trekking poles:Ideal for enhancing balance on uneven ground while minimizing stress on your knees.

Engaging with playing cards:You can even discover backpacking cards that weigh less than a typical deck.

Compact mobile power bank:Many backpackers no longer depend exclusively on paper maps, thanks to handy and intuitive apps such as AllTrails. Today’s market offers ultra-lightweight phone chargers that ensure your navigation app stays active and your device retains enough power to call for assistance when necessary (though signal availability in remote areas remains unreliable).

Smart Spending: Balancing Budget and Quality for Backpacking Essentials

Backpacking equipment often comes with a steep cost, though not every item has to be purchased new. Below are our recommendations on which gear is best bought fresh and which pieces you can consider finding secondhand.

Where to Allocate

Outdoor equipment is famously pricey—step into any outdoor store, and you could easily rack up hundreds of dollars in your basket within moments. However, we don’t think you need the most cutting-edge gear to enjoy a rewarding backpacking adventure. Still, there are specific items worth buying new due to their long-term value.

Two of the most common vacation spoilers are blisters and staying wet, which is why we prioritize spending on these areas.

Footwear:There are only a handful of items worth buying brand new. A proper pair of hiking boots or trail runners is crucial for a pleasant outdoor experience. We recommend visiting a nearby outdoor retailer and trying on several shoe options. While it’s tempting to prioritize cost, footwear is the one thing worth investing in if you’re going to treat yourself.
Waterproof clothing:Once you’re soaked in the backcountry, drying off isn’t an option… Top-tier rain gear plays a critical role in safety, comfort, and morale. Though many backpackers may not require cutting-edge technology, it’s essential to choose rainwear that fits well and offers reliable waterproofing (opt for a jacket constructed with a three-layer fabric).

Where to Store

When you can personally check used equipment and confirm it’s in good condition, purchasing secondhand backpacking gear is a smart choice. Many individuals visit outfitters and purchase all the gear they think they’ll need for their initial backpacking adventure, only to realize backpacking isn’t their passion. Stores specializing in used gear and online platforms often carry top-brand items, such as backpacks, that could perfectly fit your needs. If you’re patient, identify the equipment you require and hold out until you locate it in pre-owned condition.

Clothing:Even if it’s not waterproof, you can discover premium merino and synthetic layers at a significantly lower cost when bought new.
Tent:If you get the opportunity to check and re-seal the tent, you can often find a great bargain. While online marketplaces are fantastic, outdoor consignment shops maintain strict criteria for the items they take, ensuring you receive a reliable used product.
Essential kitchen equipment:Even if your lightweight cookware isn’t the latest or the lightest available, it can still outperform using regular kitchen items. A thorough cleaning will make your used backpacking cookware as good as new.

What to Exclude and Avoid Packing for Backpacking

When preparing for a backpacking trip, the inventory of unnecessary items can be extensive. Below are a few typical things novice backpackers often consider packing, though it’s best to avoid bringing them altogether.

• Surplus personal care products
• Thick coats
• Garments made from cotton fabric
• Food that comes with too much packaging
• Fruit that is prone to bruising
• Reusable drink containers made from metal
• Preserved food in metal containers or glass vessels
• Excessive alcohol consumption poses significant risks to physical and mental health, leading to potential long-term consequences such as liver disease, addiction, and impaired cognitive function. It also increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and risky behaviors. Moderation or avoidance is essential to minimize these dangers and promote overall well-being.

Adjusting Your Equipment Based on Journey Duration, Seasonal Conditions, and Personal Requirements

These lists serve as a basic reference for a weekend backpacking excursion, though the amount of gear you bring may vary based on trip duration. Avoid packing too much, but remember that carrying an extra shirt or spare socks can be highly beneficial.

When backpacking in cold weather, it’s essential to bring well-insulated equipment—especially clothing, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad. Additional gear like a ground tarp can help maintain dryness inside your tent and provide extra insulation. Carefully consider what you’ll need to ensure you’re fully prepared for your journey.

Your camping gear should reflect your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize comfort—such as using a camp chair, wearing a cotton sleep shirt, or preparing heartier meals—you might be willing to accept the added weight. Similarly, even in summer, packing an insulated jacket could be necessary if you tend to feel cold quickly.

The more you travel with a backpack, the better you’ll understand what suits your needs.

Additional Guidance from Specialists

I typically avoid keeping items that serve only one function. For instance, a Nalgene bottle works just as well for coffee as a dedicated mug, and a rinsed Backpacker’s Pantry bag from the previous night’s meal is perfectly suitable for preparing oatmeal in the morning!
I always make sure to have a special pair of cozy socks reserved just for sleeping, never forget my Kula Cloth when heading out, and if I treat myself, it’s usually for a game. With a deck of cards, a cribbage board app on my phone, and a few dice, I can enjoy hours of fun without carrying extra weight.

Hannah Matranga. Alpine Guide, Educator in Backcountry Skills, and Long-Distance Hiker

Extra Guidelines for Packing and Ethical Considerations

Structuring and Water-Resistant Solutions

Organize your equipment using stuff sacks and dry bags to keep things tidy. This simplifies locating items and allows for more efficient packing. Position heavier gear near your back, ensuring it’s centered and balanced. Store essential items within easy reach and minimize external attachments to avoid unnecessary movement while hiking.

Make sure your equipment stays dry by utilizing dry bags and a rain cover for your backpack. Preventing moisture is far simpler than trying to dry out gear once it’s already wet.

**Wildlife Safety: Bears**

When traveling in bear country, always store food in a bear canister. Certain regions mandate the use of bear canisters, while others simply advise it—be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines for your destination. After dark, place all scented items (including chapstick) inside the bear canister or bag, keeping them a minimum of 100 yards away and downwind from your campsite. For additional details on proper food storage while camping, click here.

Make sure every member of your group carries bear spray when in an area with known bear presence. Follow local rules and recommendations, but prioritize caution for wildlife safety at all times.

Leave No Trace (LNT)

The seven LNT principles are crucial. Understand these guidelines and consistently consider ways to reduce or avoid affecting the environment during your backpacking trips. Removing all waste begins by intentionally limiting the amount of trash and packaging you bring. Prior to staying overnight at any campsite—whether established, dispersed, or backcountry—learn all relevant rules, including those for food storage and waste disposal. Above all, stay informed about the latest fire regulations in your wilderness area and ensure any fire you light is completely extinguished. Since these rules frequently update, it’s best to verify them right before your departure.

Essential Items for a Two-Day Hiking Adventure:

Packaging and storage

• Backpack (includes waterproof cover)
• Waterproof storage sacks or sealed dry bags

Navigation

• Area map and directional compass
• Navigation tool or path-tracking application on a mobile device
• Portable charger (if needed)

Shelter and Resting Arrangement

• Tent
• A bag designed for sleeping, typically used outdoors or while camping.
• Sleeping mat
• Pillow filled with air

Nourishment and Hydration

• Portable camping stove and fuel canister
• Lightweight cooking equipment and kitchen tools
• Food (freeze-dried dishes, light bites, and similar items)
• Bear-resistant container or bag (where mandated)
• Water purification tablets or water filters
• Containers holding 2 to 3 liters of water

Apparel/Layering and Footwear

• Base layers (made from synthetic materials or wool)
• Insulating middle layer (fleece or down jacket)
• Water-resistant outerwear
• Outdoor apparel for hiking
• Additional undergarments and pairs of socks
• Hat and gloves (to stay warm or shield from the sun)
• Sturdy footwear designed for hiking, such as hiking boots or trail shoes
• Camp footwear

Essential Medical Supplies and Personal Hygiene Items

• First aid supplies (gauze, disinfectant, personal medications)
• Eco-friendly toilet paper and a small shovel or Wag Bags
• Compact toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Hand sanitizer

Essential Equipment and Crisis Resources

• Headlamp equipped with new batteries
• A versatile tool or blade
• Matches that are both lightweight and resistant to water
• Lightweight thermal rescue covering
• Repair supplies (duct tape, sleeping pad repair kit)
• Whistle

Factors to Take Into Account

• Hiking poles
• Optics like a camera or binoculars
• Journal or publication
• Engaging with a deck of playing cards