Backpacking and Hiking Checklist

The Ten Essentials (for safety, survival and basic comfort)

• Map (with protective case)
• Compass
• GPS (optional)

• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Sunglasses

• Jacket, vest, pants, gloves, hat (see Clothing)

• Headlamp or flashlight (plus spare)
• Extra batteries

• First-aid kit (see our First-aid checklist)

• Matches or lighter
• Waterproof container
• Fire starter (for emergency survival fire)

• Knife or multi-tool
• Kits for stove, mattress; duct tape strips

• Extra day's supply of food

• Water bottles or hydration system
• Water filter or other treatment system

• Tent, tarp, bivy or reflective blanket

Beyond the Ten Essentials

• Backpack
• Daypack or summit pack
• Pack cover
• Tent, tarp or bivy sack (with stakes, guylines)
• Tent-pole repair sleeve
• Footprint (if needed for tent)
• Sleeping bag
• Stuff sack or compression sack
• Sleeping pad
• Pillow or stuffable pillow case
• Whistle (plus signaling mirror)
• Multifunction watch with altimeter (optional)
• Trekking poles
• Ice axe (if hiking on or near snowpack)
• Meals
• Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
• Energy beverages or drink mixes
• Stove
• Fuel
• Cookset (with pot grabber)
• Dishes or bowls
• Utensils
• Cups (measuring cups)
• Food-storage canister (or hang bags)
• Nylon cord (50 feet for hanging food)
• Backup water treatment (e.g., Micropur tablets)
   

Clothing options

• Wicking T-shirt (synthetic or wool)
• Wicking underwear
• Quick-drying pants or shorts
• Long-sleeve shirt (for sun, bugs)
• Sun-shielding hat
• Bandana or Buff
   

• Wicking long-sleeve T-shirt
• Wicking long underwear (good sleepwear)
• Hat, cap, skullcap, balaclava or headband
• Gloves or mittens
• Rainwear (jacket, pants)
• Fleece jacket or vest, and pants
• Boots or shoes suited to terrain
• Socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares
• Gaiters
• Sandals (for in camp)
• Camera and memory cards
• Binoculars
• Permits
• Route description or guidebook
• Notebook and pen or pencil
• Credit card; small amount of cash
• Music player with headphones (optional)
• Toilet paper
• Sanitation trowel
• Hand sanitizer
• Insect repellant
• Headnet (optional)
• Toothbrush and/or toiletry kit
• Biodegradable soap
• Quick-dry towel
• Two-way radios
• Cell or satellite phone
• Post-hike snacks, water, towel, clothing change
• Trip itinerary left w/ friend + under car seat