Backpacking Gear Checklist

This summer, I went on two awesome backpacking trips in Montana’s Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and California’s Lost Coast.

Here is my 3-4 day backpacking gear checklist based on those trips, along with links to the gear I brought with me.

If you are planning your first backpacking trip, GetOutfitted offers convenient gear rentals on backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and pads.

Keep in mind, when you have to carry everything on your back, sharing is caring. For a group of 5, you may only need to bring 2 stoves, 2 water filters and 3 tents. Split the weight, and your body will thank you!

Essentials
Sleep
Clothing/Accessories
Hygiene
Cookware
Food
Optional
Camera Equipment
Additional Resources

Is there anything you’d add to this list?

Disclaimer: I’m not an expert backpacker – these are just guidelines based on my experience. Also, this article includes affiliate links. If you purchase an item, Shoestring Adventures gets a small commission at no added cost to you. Thank you for supporting us with your purchase!

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2 replies on “Backpacking Gear Checklist”
  1. says: Robb Keele

    You did a great job with this list. I tend to err on the side of safety, so I’d modify the matches to be waterproof or stormproof, since they’re a backup to your lighter. Add a small flashlight as a redundancy for emergencies. And don’t forget a map and compass. A GPS may be optional, but a map and compass never are.

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