This is a list of what I normally bring, with
some enhancements. Some things with a *
are considered optional in my opinion.
Food
Water filter – Or extra fuel to boil water, or water purification tablets.
Fuel - White fuel for the MSR.
Stove -MSR whisperlight.
Tent - A lightweight, 3 season tent, 2
person. 3-5lbs.
Camp Pillow* - Can easily use cloths bundled for a pillow and save space.
Camp Chair* - They are cozy and usually convert your mattress pad, so they
don’t add much weight.
Mattress pad – The half inch or so adds insulation from the ground and a bit of
comfort.
Sleeping bag – Synthetic mummy bag to at least 10 degrees.
Backpack – Internal or external depending on taste.
Food stuff pack – Hang your food back and organization.
Cooking pan (pan, cover, holder) – Something light.
Eating utensils (bowl, spoon) – Buy light camping silverware. Bring only what’s necessary.
Drinking cup/Measuring Cup* - Often I use my water bottles labeled with
ounces.
2 Water Bottles – Water is the key to the world.
Water Bag/bladder – I usually don’t hike with this full, unless I’m going where
there is little water.
Sunscreen* - Sunburn occurs at all times of the year. Even during overcast days.
Soap* - I rarely bring soap. Water
cleans you up pretty well without it.
Lip Balm – I’ve ended a trip one day short because my lips were almost
bleeding.
Bug Screen – DEET is the best repellant, but it will melt you and your clothes.
Writing Stuff (Paper, Pen) – Take only what you need.
Band Aids/Blister Aid – Moleskin is heavenly.
Rain Poncho* - I usually bring an instant one that cost $.99. Light and easy to use.
Toothbrush/Toothpaste (Small quantity) –
Don’t bring a whole tube.
Knife – Swiss army knife, or other nice blades. Keep it light.
Rope* - String up your food and backpacks.
Flashlight* - Handlamp.. can be useful.
Lighter/waterproof matches – You’ll need it.
Maps* - Bring quality maps to anyplace you don’t know well.
Pan Rag* - Nice to clean out your pan, but a luxery.
Camera* - Digital is best. Film has
gelatin in it.
Toilet Paper/Toiletries* - Can always use leaves.
Zip-lock bags* (Pack food in them. Use them after) - Keep food airtight and reuse as garbage bags.
Watch* - Burn watches for neat special effects.
Playing Cards* (For boat rides, rainy days) – Cards are fun, there is no doubt.
First Aid kit. I never bring it, but
you should.
Clothing:
Remember to not bring cotton clothing. You can if you must, but don’t put yourself
any situation where cotton is going to have to protect you in the cold or wet
weather.
Shirts – 2 is good enough
Sweatshirt – 1 should do, unless you have some that layer well.
Shorts – Depending on the weather.
Wind breaking waterproof pants -
Warm pants – Something that you can layer with long underware and rain gear.
Long Underwear – tops and bottoms, long sleeves.
Sandals* - They are nice to walk in water with, and to hang around the campsite
in.
Boots/shoes – Barefoot is noble, but not very attractive.
Socks – 2-3 pairs. Wash a pair each
day.
Gloves* - Mittens seem to keep my hands warmer.
Hair Tie – I have long hair, and it is nice to keep it out of my face.
Hat – Something that Protects you from the sun. Protect your neck and face.
Sunglasses – Again, protect yourself from the sun.
You can buy from many places online. Here’s a co-op outdoor store. The prices are a bit high, but you get money
back at the end of the year if you are a member: REI.com*