Backpacking

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Ten backpacking essentials (according to REI and BSA)

  • Navigation (map & compass)
  • Sun protection
  • Insulation (extra clothing)
  • Illumination (flashlight)
  • First-aid supplies
  • Fire (matches and hot-spark)
  • Repair kit and tools (pocketknife and or multi-tool)
  • Nutrition (extra food, trail food)
  • Hydration (water and water purification)
  • Emergency shelter (at least rain gear)

Individual checklist

  • backpack
  • food and bear cannisters or stuff-sacks
  • watch
  • towel
  • tent, ground cloth (a.k.a. "footprint")
  • warm sleeping bag in stuffsack
  • pad (for under sleeping bag)
  • spaceblanket
  • eating utensil (spoon is recommended)
  • Sierra cup or bowl
  • measuring cup
  • warm jacket
  • sweater or sweatshirt
  • beanie (tuque)
  • water bottles (2)
  • trekking poles
  • toilet paper
  • personal first-aid kit
  • compass
  • map
  • sturdy hiking shoes
  • rain poncho
  • flashlight
  • change of clothes (especially socks)
  • grooming kit (washcloth, soap, toothbrush, comb)
  • garbage bag (to use as backpack cover in case of rain)
  • sunscreen
  • pen or pencil
  • matches
  • hot-spark kit or magnesium block
  • pocketknife
  • hat
  • line
  • carabiner
  • whistle
  • back-up batteries (for any battery-powered items)
  • length of rope
  • sharpening stone
  • playing cards
  • insect repellent
  • pack cover (in case of rain)

optional individual gear:

  • bathing suit
  • ditty bag
  • water shoes
  • camp shoes
  • playing cards

Group gear:

  • light water-boiling pots
  • backpacking stoves and fuel
  • water filter or purifier
  • powdered Gatorade
  • camera
  • scrubee
  • food
  • dish soap
  • rain fly, poles, cord
  • trowel
  • repair kit
  • pencil and [First Aid Report]
  • duct tape
  • sewing kit
  • saline spray
  • triangular bandages

Tips for successful treks:

  • Some will always go faster than others. Wait, at least in pairs, at the next trailhead.
  • Make sure the front group and the end group each have a water filter.
  • Provide each participant with a single-sheet page showing the itinerary.