There are a few essentials for backpacking that the seasoned professional always includes in their pack, and if you are looking for a packing list for backpack camping, you’ve come to the right place.
From hydrations, insulations, navigation, and first aid, you need to be super prepared when you are backpacking, always considering including the basic items for survival out in the great outdoors.
What things to bring for your backpacking trip
If you ask a backpacker what their essentials list is, you will probably get some mixed answers as it depends on the location, the length of time, and what weight of the bag you are willing to carry.
Aside from personal preference, if you are searching for a simple and effective packing list for your next hike, consider including the items listed below:
1. Map and compass
Don’t rely on your phone compass or info on your phone for a map. In the wilderness, there is not always power points, so you might need to get back to basics and invest in a traditional map and compass to help you guide the way along your journey.
2. Sun protection
Don’t leave home and head on a backpacking trip without sun protection. Even if you are hiking under the canopy of trees or it is snowing, you will need to ensure you have adequate protection from the sun. Use a highly SPF sunscreen that will stay on for the entire day and also hats and coverage to suit the environment.
3. First aid kit and medical supplies
An injury or medical issue can turn a backpacking trip into a nightmare, and you will want to ensure your first-aid kit is packed with plenty of the essentials should you need to patch yourself or someone else up in your group. Often a first-aid kit is an excellent source for a bandage or even tweezers to get out a splinter. Still, if you have a major medical issue on your hands, it can help to manage medical issues while you are waiting for professional medical assistance to arrive.
4. Firestarters
If it is wet or you’re struggling to find kindling to start a fire, you will be thanking the lucky stars you thought of bringing fire starters along. You can buy them in small packs so that they don’t take up a heap of room, and they are a quick way to get you warm and get a fire roaring in no time at all.
5. Lots of food
When you are backpacking, you will be needing plenty of healthy and notorious food that will give you lots of energy. Food to consider include breakfast bars, porridge, instant mash potatoes, freeze-dried foods, energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, seeds and nuts, and canned fish if you have this available. A quick search online will provide some great menus and guides for great food for backpacking too.
6. Lots of water
Ensuring you are hydrated is the key to backpacking in the outdoors in particular. If you are going on a trip, you should pack plenty of water and also be aware of the water sources and if there is fresh water available along the way. You can purify water on a trip as you go. However, you will need special tablets that purify the water and ensure there are no nasties in there. Pack plenty of water, boil and purify water regularly, and always ensure you are focused on hydration throughout the trip.
7. Plenty of Clothes
Accidents happen, and you will need to ensure you have plenty of layers of clothes in the event you fall into a river, or you need a change of clothes a few days into your hike or backpacking expedition. Avoid materials that aren’t breathable and even explore the option of hemp clothing, which is antibacterial.
8. Sanitizer
Consider that the wilderness and most backpacking environments are always the cleanest locations globally and invest in some hand sanitizer to ensure you stay healthy and germ-free. You can attach it to your backpack for easy access and consider adding it to your routine ahead of cooking any meal. Remember that you are in the outdoors, and there will be insects, animals, and a range of creepy crawlies, so adding in sanitizer and even some roll-on insect repellent every few hours could save you plenty of issues down the track.
9. Headlamp
When you are backpacking, a headlamp can be a lifesaver when cooking, going to the toilet, gathering firewood, and generally getting around the campsite after dark. A headlamp is easy to use and will allow you to have the confidence to create a meal without needing a second person to hold up a traditional torch or lamp.
What not to pack on your backpack camping trip
When you are about to embark on your backpacking trip, be sure to leave any valuables at home, including fancy watches, rings, bracelets, and anything that might draw attention, especially in countries that have high rates of petty theft. You should also be careful of the weight of your clothes, as you will be carrying everything on your back, you should focus on layering rather than packing items that take up weight and space.
As well as this, don’t bother packing nice clothes or going out shoes. If you are backpacking, you really should embrace the entire experience and avoid the temptation to fill up your bag with expensive or bulky items that are more than likely not going to be used.
Your backpacking camping trip can be a great way to get out of the rat race and enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors. Leave all the gadgets at home and pack light while including all the hydration and food you need to experience a fun and rewarding backpacking trip.
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