Our Backpackers Checklist is offered as a near minimum for a safe and comfortable backpack outing.

At first glance the list may appear extensive, but many of the items will be shared with other members in your hiking party. Pre-planning will prevent duplication. Divvy up shared items among all the packs. Equipment marked with a "*" is optional depending on the season, weather, geography, and personal need. Equipment listed in bold type should be carried at all times, even when day hiking, as an unexpected emergency may keep you overnight.

When you return from a trip, eliminate the extras you thought youd use and didnt. After a few trips youll know your personal requirements and the best place for everything in your pack.

FOOD/COOKING
__ Stove/Stove Fuel
__ Cook Kit/Drinking Cup
__ Eating/Cooking Utensils
__ Matches In a Waterproof Container
__ Spices/Seasonings
__ Powdered Milk/Sugar
__ Coffee/Tea/Drink Mixes
__ Cooking Oil
__ Dehydrated Food
__ Trail Snacks
__ Plastic Bags For Food Storage And To Pack Out Trash

Most backpacking foods, drink mixes, and snacks are packaged in aluminum foil. Aluminum foil doesnt burn and isnt degradable. If you pack it in, please pack it out!

Many grocery store food items backpack well, but they often use excess packaging. Eliminate and recycle as much of this extra material as possible at home, before you load your pack.

NECESSITIES
__ Topographical Map/Map Case
__ Silva System Compass
__ Flashlight
__ Extra Flashlight Batteries/Bulb
__ Knife/Sharpener
__ Nylon Cord (30 Ft.)
__ Candle Lantern/Candles
__ Needle/Thread
__ Nylon Repair Tape/Duct Tape

CLOTHING
__ SocksBoth Heavy Weight & Light Liners
__ Underwear
__ Hat
__ Polypropylene Underwear *
__ Down Vest or Light Sweater or Synthetic Fleece Jacket
__ Parka *
__ Windbreaker
__ Rain GearPoncho Or Rain Suit
__ Bandanas
__ Swim Suit *
__ Gloves *
__ Hiking Shorts/Trousers
__ Shirt
__ Hiking Boots
__ Running Shoes/Moccasins for in Camp
__ Polarguard/Down Booties

MEDICAL
__ Moleskin
__ First AidSurvival Kit
__ Allergy Restrictions *
__ Medic Alert ID
__ Sunglasses
__ Lip Balm
__ Sunscreen *
__ Insect Repellent
__ Water Purification Filter or Tablets

PERMITS/IDENTIFICATION
__ Fire/Camping Permits
__ Fishing/Hunting Licenses

SHELTER
__ Eureka! Tent, w/ Floor Saver & Optional Vestibule
__ Sleeping Bag
__ Sleeping Pad (Foam Or Self-Inflating)
__ Lightweight Tarp for a Ground Cloth or as an Emergency Shelter

TOILETRIES
__ Toothbrush/Paste
__ Biodegradable Soap
__ Toilet Paper
__ Sanitary Supplies *
__ Towel
__ Personal Identification

SAFETY MEASURE
Always leave a detailed trip schedule, in writing, with a responsible person! Make sure you tell them when to call for help if you haven't returned by a certain day.

Of Course you can add or take away form this list as you see fit. Always use comman sense and have a great camping/hiking experiance!