Gear Checklist
Let's talk camping must-haves / can't camp withouts. Everyone is different when it comes to this stuff, so do what's right for you. Have your survival essentials, and the rest is just an adventure!
Personally, I always run cold, so I pack a few extra base layers to bundle up when the temperature drops in the middle of the night. Meanwhile, my husband thinks he's a human furnace and will typically only bring his single long underwear base layer. I have to convince him to bring his ultralight down jacket (often, barely needs it) just in case.
​
Treat the lists below as just a guide. Added links to some of my favourite gear in case you are curious!
Survival Essentials
Navigation*
Gear and tent repair kit
First Aid kit and supplies
Headlight
Folding locking knife, or full blade
Nylon cord***
Emergency survival blanket / bivy
Sun protection (including sunscreen and sunglasses)
Water bottle / hydration pack**
Purifying water tablets / water filtration system
Matches / fire starter / lighter
Insect repellant / bug spray
Extra meal supply
Recharging device (e.g., USB, Solar, Power Bank)
*Navigation equipment - compass, topographic map, GPS device, or satellite messaging. I always pair this with the latest trail instructions/route guide.
**I always carry at minimum a 1L water bottle and a 2L hydration pack
***Never know when you will need rope to make a quick shelter, use as a backup shoelace, etc.
Backpacking Checklist
This is in addition to the above survival essentials list.
Keep in mind - when it comes to packing your pack, carry what you need as required for your trip. Again, these lists are just meant to be a guide (not an exhaustive list) and items to think about - I don't necessarily carry all these items on every trip.
​
​
Overnight Hiking
Shelter
Depends on what type of adventure you want - Do you want to sleep in a tent? Set up shelter with a tarp and a footprint mat? Sleep in a bivy under the stars with the bare essentials?
This is what's fun about the backcountry - trying out different camping styles to find what works for you. Take the time to research park and campground regulations, figure out what you want to get out of your trip, then dive deep into the gear and planning needed to make it happen!
Durable Backpack
Hiking poles*
​
Bear spray** / bear bell / bear bangers / air horn
​
​
Sleeping bag
​
Sleeping mat
​
​
Lightweight camp chair***
​
Gaiters (snowy / rainy / muddy conditions)
*Just always a good idea - protect those knees!
**A must-have item. Pack bear spray always at arms reach outside your backpack.
***100% yes for me, especially after a long hike day.
Food and Cooking
Cooking sets (pots, cooking utensils, etc.)
​
Backpacking stove
​
Fuel for stove
​
Eating utensils (spoon, knife, fork / spork, etc.)
​
Camp dishware (bowl, plate, cup, etc.)
​
Bear bag / bear canister*
Main meals**
​
Energy / hiking snacks
​
Caffeine (coffee, tea, whatever you desire)
​
Electrolytes (Hydralite, Emergen-C, etc)
​
Cleaning supplies (small cloth, scrub, biodegradable dish soap, etc.)
​
*Some parks require a bear canister to keep all your food and scented/non-scented items in.
**Dehydrated meals are easy and lightweight options. If you bring fresh foods, just be sure you have a plan for keeping it from spoiling!
Clothing
Merino baselayer(s)
​
Midweight layer for top / sweater / fleece layer
​
Hiking tops (avoid cotton)
​
Softshell hiking pants
​
Shorts
​
Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
​
Waterproof shells - jacket and pants
Toiletries & Hygiene
Biodegradable toilet paper
​
Toothbrush
​
Toothpaste
​
Biodegradable shampoo
​
Hand sanitizer
​
Sanitation trowel
​
Other items specific to you as required (glasses, contact case and solution, non-scented lotion, etc.)
Other personal items
Mask*
Ziplock bags
​
Camp towel
​
Sandals / water shoes / camp shoes**
​
Trail permit, if required
Lightweight tarp
*VERY helpful for when in the pit toilets :)
**Let those feet breath!
Things To Consider
-
Consider the trip length, time of year, hike difficulty, location remoteness, and water sources along the trail.
-
i.e., Packing for the winter vs. summer season
-
-
​Check weather forecast and pack for possible temperature drops and weather changes
-
Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the alpine
-
Research weather patterns in the area​
-
-
Join region/trail group chats to keep up with trail conditions/closures
-
Determine if tent pads are available. If not, determine what other overnight shelter equipment you will need.​
-
Avoid bringing scented items that could attract wildlife.
-
Avoid cotton clothing (heavy and not quick drying). Stick to moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing.
-
Personalize your First Aid Kit.
-
i.e., I am prone to ankle blisters, so I precut strips of Moleskin and keep them in my first aid kit.
-
-
Always tell someone your hiking plans, such as day-to-day backcountry itinerary. Research distances, elevation gain, and any alternative/emergency exit routes.