List: Overnight Backpacking Gear

I sometimes get asked to speak about backpacking at local outfitters. It’s great meeting beginners and seasoned backpackers alike, and there are always some great questions at the end. The downside is that there’s never enough time to answer all the questions, or give greater detail. This post is in response to a question I get asked nearly every time: “What should I take (specifically) on my first overnight trip?”

While each trip is different, based on terrain, weather, and the number of people going, there are things I take with me each time. A lot of this may be considered excess, but I’m willing to exchange a lighter pack for more comfort items when it’s just a night or two. Remember, a lot of these items can be shared between two or even three people, which makes the weight lighter for each person. And you don’t have to spend $1,000 to go on your first trip – use whatever gear you already have (school backpacks included) and try to borrow the rest. A titanium spork is awesome, but a plastic fork from a fast-food restaurant will work for a short trip. Think outside the box.

Here’s a list of the gear I normally take (first column is generic, second column is the specific gear I own or use). As always, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the hike you will be doing, the forecasted weather and temperatures, and your group’s safety plans before setting out.