Backpacking Checklist

Even experienced backpackers use a Backpacking Checklist. It is easy to forget something. It could be dental floss or batteries for your headlamp. Whatever it is, there is nothing worse than needing something and not having it.

Camping and backpacking require different equipment. Over the years I have created checklists for both types of camping. Each time I use a list I make notes to add something or scratch an unnecessary item. I have refined this list to this point for 3 season backpacking.

For winter camping you need more items such as crampons, snow shoes, snow shovel and warmer clothing. My wife doesn't care for the colder weather so I haven't done much backpacking in the winter. If I made a list for this type of backpacking it wouldn't be reliable.

This is a list that can be brought backpacking. After you copy and paste this list you can delete items that are not suited for you. You can copy and paste this list or you can print out this page but your printer will show you a copy of this page including the header and images. Click this link to get a printable backpacking list in PDF format.

First Aid Kit Snake Bite Kit Bear Pepper Spray Water Filter Water Bottle Tent Tent Footprint Tarp & Ropes Stove Stove Fuel Shovel Foldable Saw Fire Starter Survival Knife Flint and Steel Kit Waterproof Stuff Sack Compression Stuff Sack Sleeping Bag and Sheet Self Inflating Air Mattress Backpacking Chair Backpacking Lantern Headlamp and Batteries Camera Gps or Map and Compass Trekking Pole Rain Gear Pack Fly Clothes

Water Container Hiking Jacket Pans or Cookware Eating Utensils Cups Food and Seasonings Trash Bags Toilet Paper Towels and Soap Tooth Paste and Brush Sun Block Insect Repellent Medications If you take your dog Collar and Leash Dog Pack Training Collar Dog Bowl Food Treats Dog Medication

As you can see, weight is important and you want to minimize it where ever possible. Don't bring a large sleeping pad. Use one that is just large enough to fit on. Use the thicker and larger pads at the base camp. I made a pad cover out of a flannel sheet. The cover held our pads together and had a zipper to attach the sleeping bag. When we go backpacking and camping we bring just one sleeping bag. I wouldn't recommend this for winter camping but a few times we woke up and our water bucket was frozen but we were still warm and toasty.

I have omitted listing firearms and ammunition because when not properly trained a firearm can be more of a danger than protection to the user. If you only wound an animal it can become more vicious. Besides, in some places carrying loaded firearms is prohibited.

While you do not have to bring everything on this backpacking check list, this list is designed to help you to remember to pack an item. The list can be edited according to your preference and area where you intend to backpack. Click here for a printable backpacking checklist in PDF format.