Backpacking what to bring list


PACKING LIST—BACKPACKING TRIPS

Back to Information Main Page

Packing for a backpacking trip requires that close attention be paid to weight. Total weight of the backpack and gear should not be more than a third of the scout’s weight. When packing clothes, think in terms of layers. As temperatures get colder, more and more layers are worn. Ziploc bags are needed to keep clothes dry from rain or from accidentally being dropped in a stream. They also make good organizers.
Required
A well-adjusted backpack with frame, padded hip belt, and 2 straps for the sleeping bag (no bungee cords) Pack cover or large garbage bag Well worn-in hiking boots Lightweight sneakers or tennis shoes Rain Gear—rain parka or poncho; or rain jacket and rain pants Eating utensils—a light bowl, a cup, and a spoon Two quart-size or larger water bottles Small flashlight with working batteries Sleeping bag (with plastic lining for the stuff sack) and sleeping pad Sleeping clothes to be worn only in sleeping bag Light backpacking tent and ground cloth (plan ahead to share with a friend) Compass Two bandanas Small towel Personal medication and hygiene items (toothbrush, washcloth, soap, sunscreen, chapstick)—store in a small ditty bag to place in bear bag at night NOTE: all clothing should be in gallon-size ziploc bags Two or three pair light polypro liner socks Two pair heavy woolen outer socks Two or three changes underwear One hat or cap with brim One wool sweater or jacket One wool or flannel long sleeve shirt Two pair lightweight long pants Two pair shorts (one pair shorts and long pants may be combined)
Optional (remember that each item adds extra weight!):
Sweatshirt (with hood a good idea) Swimsuit Insect repellant Small pocketknife Matches in waterproof container Sunglasses	Camera and film One pair polypro long underwear One pair polypro or wool gloves or mittens Wool or polypro stocking cap Wallet with $5 to $10
Forbidden
Radios Cassettes Sheath knives	Slingshots Bows and arrows Electronic games
Keep your equipment as light as possible, as you are responsible for carrying all your gear on the trip, as well as your share of the crew food and gear!

Back to Information Main Page