Backpacking Checklist: What to Pack for an Overnight Trip
vosemo.com/outdoors/backpacking-checklist
Backpacking means carrying everything on your back, so every item earns its place. Start with the big three (pack, shelter, sleep system), then the rest of the list.
The big three
Kitchen and water
Clothing
Navigation and safety
Hygiene and Leave No Trace
Paperwork
Tips
- Do a shakedown: pack everything and walk around the block, then remove anything you didn't need.
- Aim for a total pack weight of about 20% of your body weight or less.
- Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams, and use existing campsites when you can.
Backpacking tent
Look for a two-person tent under about 4 pounds for comfortable solo or tight two-person trips.
Shop backpacking tent on Amazon ↗Canister stove
Small, fast and simple for boiling water.
Shop canister stove on Amazon ↗Bear canister
Required in parts of the Sierra and other parks. Check your area.
Shop bear canister on Amazon ↗Shop links go to Amazon search results so you can compare brands and prices. Vosemo may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
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