Summer backpacking essentials
Unlike RV camping or car camping at established campgrounds, backpacking allows you to experience the backcountry on a more intimate level. You’ll have to rely solely on what you’re able to carry on your back, as there is a good chance you’ll be miles away from the nearest store or town.
For first-time backpackers, planning a trip might feel overwhelming. But no matter your skill level, every camper and backpacker can benefit from these important essentials, which will help keep you safe and comfortable while outdoors.
Types of backpacking
Not every backpacking trip is the same. Besides the differences you’ll experience in terrain and climate, depending on your location, the length of your backpacking trip and the total weight you’re willing to carry will also play a part in the gear and accessories you’ll need.
For simple overnight trips or shorter multi-day treks, you might be able to get by with a slightly smaller pack. However, if you’re planning a long-distance hike, you’ll need a pack that can comfortably accommodate all your gear.
Base weight for backpacks
The base weight of your pack is the total weight of all your gear minus your food, water and fuel.
For ultralight backpackers taking a minimalistic approach, the lower the base weight, the better. However, this style of hiking also means you might be sacrificing essentials in order to increase your speed and reduce back strain. A base weight under 10 pounds is considered ultralight.
Traditional backpacking will come with a heavier base weight, usually 30 pounds or less, which might be a little more challenging to carry, but allows you to include some extra equipment that can help improve your backcountry stay.
One style is not necessarily better than the other — what matters most is what feels and works best for you.
Essential backpacking gear
Shelter and sleep system
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent: available at Backcountry and Amazon
Minimizing weight whenever possible is important on long backpacking trips. The trail weight on this highly durable two-person tent is under three pounds, making it an ideal shelter to tote in your backpack.
Kelty Salida 2-Person Camping and Backpacking Tent: available at Amazon
Only slightly heavier than the Copper Spur, this budget-friendly backpacking tent has generous vestibule space for extra gear storage.
Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down Fill Sleeping Bag: available at Amazon and Backcountry
If your overnight trek takes you up into the mountains or higher in elevation, chances are the nights will be chilly. The Kelty Cosmic 20 will keep you warm without taking up too much space in your pack. Available in men’s and women’s styles.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Sleeping Pad: available at Amazon and Backcountry
A favorite among experienced backpackers, this sleeping pad will provide insulation on cold nights and weighs less than a pound.
Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad: available at Amazon
At a more affordable price and only 1.4 pounds, the Static V sleeping pad takes just 10 to 15 breaths to inflate and is rated for four-season use, perfect for any climate.
Trekology Ultralight Inflatable Camping Travel Pillow: available at Amazon
Some backpackers prefer to use a jacket or spare clothing as their pillow, but a small inflatable camping pillow can drastically improve sleep quality. Weighing only 3.4 ounces, this compact model is well worth it.
Backpacks
Osprey Atmos AG 50 and Aura AG 50: available at Amazon and Backcountry
The Atmos and Aura are the men’s and women’s version of Osprey’s classic backpacking pack. Both feature the brand’s signature anti-gravity suspension, and the 50-liter capacity is a great middle-ground option that won’t be too big or too small for multi-day treks.
TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack: available at Amazon
For those looking to backpack on a budget, the Scout 3400 pack is lightweight, but strong enough to hold all your essential gear and even has a separate sleeping bag compartment.
Footwear
Darn Tough Men’s Merino Wool Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Sock: available at Amazon and Backcountry
The anti-microbial merino wool blend will help keep your feet comfortable, blister-free and can even help fight odors. Women’s styles are also available.
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: available at Amazon, Backcountry and Dick’s Sporting Goods
With a stable, high-traction sole, waterproof design and extra ankle support, these boots ensure that you’re covered and protected on any terrain. Available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Safety/health and emergency essentials
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight Medical First Aid Kit: available at Amazon
Creating your own personal first aid kit is cheap and effective, but for those who prefer pre-made kits, this waterproof option contains all the vital medications and supplies for outdoor emergencies.
Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System: available at Amazon
Having clean, fresh water is crucial when out in the wilderness, which is why a portable water filtration system is necessary. The Sawyer MINI filters out over 99 percent of dangerous bacteria and protozoa so you can stay hydrated and healthy on the trail.
Leatherman Squirt PS4 Keychain Multitool: available at Amazon and Backcountry
Backpackers should never leave home without some type of multitool. They can be extremely helpful in emergency situations or for minor gear repair. The Leatherman Squirt will easily fit in your pocket or pack.
UCO Stormproof Matches: available at Amazon
Having more than one fire-starting method is always recommended. Many backpackers will carry a small lighter but keeping waterproof matches as a backup will guarantee you can start a fire regardless of weather conditions.
Garmin InReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator: available at Amazon and Backcountry
Chances are, you won’t have great cell service in the woods. The Inreach Mini lets you stay connected to family and friends and even send an emergency SOS signal no matter where you go.
Other gear and accessories
Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles: available at Amazon and Backcountry
These lightweight Black Diamond trekking poles are designed to aid in uphill climbs and provide support when attempting tricky river crossings.
MSR PocketRocket Ultralight Backpacking, Camping and Travel Stove: available at Amazon and Backcountry
There’s nothing better than having a hot meal after a long day of hiking. This small and reliable camp stove can boil water or cook your favorite food quickly and efficiently. Just don’t forget to pack the fuel.
GSI Outdoors Halulite MicroDualist Outdoor Cook Set: available at Amazon
This two-person packable cook set is perfectly suited for use on a camp stove and has everything you need for a delicious outdoor dinner, including a pot, mugs, sporks and lids.
Black Diamond Spot 350 Headlamp: available at Amazon
Even if you don’t plan on night hiking, a headlamp is a must have accessory for navigating around camp at night or for setting up your tent at dusk. The Spot 350 features both a dimming and red-light effect so you won’t bother anyone else trying to sleep.
Matthew Young is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money
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