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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Home » Gear » backpacking packing list

The ULTIMATE Backpacking Packing List: Everything You Need To Travel (2024)

Deciding what to take on a backpacking trip and what to leave behind can be quite the challenge.  You have one bag and so much stuff you could bring. How do you decide exactly what are the backpacking essentials, and what is excessive?

One of the most common questions that we consistently get from folks about to hit the road is – what gear should I take backpacking? What are the essential items I need? Well, read on cos we will show you exactly what to pack while backpacking by giving you my top-secret lightweight backpacking checklist.

This is the definitive backpacking checklist. We’ve put together this epic guide filled the backpacking essentials – just the things you do need, and some bold claims about the things you don’t need to take backpacking.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

 Backpacking Checklist

Choosing what to pack, what to bring backpacking – 10 essential backpacking items, best backpacking clothes checklist, backpacking necessities – technology checklist, backpacking packing list – adventure checklist, backpacking supply list – hiking gear checklist, backpacking packing list – toiletries packing list, backpacking packing list – medical checklist, backpacking packing list – documents checklist, faq about the best backpacking packing list, final thoughts on our definitive backpacking checklist.

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Our Top Tips and Packing Hacks…

Before we get into the details of this, let us start by sharing our absolute tip-top tip for travel packing – pack light.

Whether you are camping or hiking, travelling to Europe or Asia as a baller or on a budget, it doesn’t matter what sort of backpacking trip you’re planning. You need to travel as light as possible. This is why we’ll only be talking about the  backpacking necessities .

Note that This is a purposely lightweight backpacking checklist to help you achieve this. We’ve only included things to take backpacking that you really need!

This is the most important backpacking packing tip I can give you. Travel light! And here are some of the reasons why packing light is so damn important;

• By travelling lighter you are saving yourself the strain and the stress of a weighted pack. Heavy bags suck, and more shit = more weight.
• Travelling lighter will enable you to have spare space, meaning you can fit more stuff in your bag if need be. See a nice souvenir for mum? Want to pick up some camping gear? If you pack light, you’ll have the space to add more gear to your pack…

You might be thinking, ‘But there are over 100 items recommended on your backpacking essentials checklist! I’ll need 4 backpacks to fit them all!’

This is true! We make a ton of backpacking travel gear recommendations in this guide, and it would be silly to try and bring all of them along with you on your backpacking trip.

We’ve done our best to break this backpacking checklist down into several sections so you can pick what to take backpacking based on the kind of trip you’re doing. Not everyone is going to need a sleeping bag and hiking boots, some will reserve more room for specialist camera gear and extra batteries. Others will rightly prioritise room for emergency toilet paper!

One thing that everyone should prioritize though is respecting mother nature and not leaving anything behind. The less you pack, the less you can leave behind. Packing eco-friendly products is an extra bonus of course 😉

So keep this in mind as you peruse this list – only pack the gear that best fits  your travel style and itinerary. Doing so will turn this epic checklist into your perfectly tailored minimalist backpacking list. 

Another great tip is to always pack appropriately for your destination and for the kind of trip you intend to have. For example, keep a firm eye on climate – if you are backpacking Europe in July then you won’t need too much in the way of warm clothes (except a jacket for the UK!). Likewise, if you’re just going to be hitting the beach or exploring cities then hiking shoes are probably not all that essential! And if you aren’t a Digital Nomad or aspiring entrepreneur, then you can probably take that laptop off your backpacking list.

By keeping note of the travel style and itinerary of your backpacking trip, you’ll be able to quickly and easily identify which gear on this backpacking checklist is right for you to bring along on your travels…

Looking for a backpacking clothes list, hold your horse a little because that comes later, first you need to check off these backpacker essentials.

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Need more work inspiration? Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

Out of all the things you could bring on your backpacking adventure, these are my 10 highest recommendations. This is the backpacking gear that we have been using for over a decade as we travel around the world.

There’s a lot of gear out there that you don’t need but in my opinion, every traveller should have these ten backpacking essentials on their checklist…

#1 Travel Backpack! (Like the Osprey Aether Plus 70 Pack)

The most important item on this backpacking gear list is a good backpacking backpack! After all, you can’t be a backpacker without a backpack and picking the right backpack is key! I mean, it wouldn’t be a backpacking trip packing list without something to pack it all in!

I myself am a big fan of Osprey packs They are really bloody comfortable, well designed, ergonomic, hard wearing and they come with a lifetime warranty. Backpacks come in all kind of shapes and sizes but we suggest picking a backpack in the forty- to the sixty-litre (40l – 60l) range.

Lots of us here at TBB use the Osprey Aether backpack  (read the full review here ) but there are lots of great options out there.

Picking the right travel backpack is very important; you are, after all, going to be pretty much living out of your pack.

You can’t compile your ultimate backpacking gear list without the right backpack! Remember to throw in some good packing cubes too so you can keep everything organised, they’re another must have for backpacking.

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#2 Daypack – (Like the Osprey Daylite Pack)

Most of us here at TBB travel with a big backpack which we use for keeping most of our stuff and traveling and then a smaller pack which we use for day trips and stuff.

We recommend looking at the Osprey Daylite ; it’s super comfy and of great quality. It’s versatile as hell so can be used for beach days, going shopping, day hikes, overnight camping trips or simply for carrying your backpack to the coffee shop.

Want a few more options? Have a look at our guide to the best travel backpacks to see which suits you best.

If you don’t like the look of the Exos then go and check out our detailed post on how to choose the best daypack for travel.

#3 A Proper Travel Towel (Gotta stay dry!)

Towels are essential backpacking gear as a lot of hostels don’t provide them or if they do, they may not really be all that clean. However don’t bring a ‘normal’ towel on your backpacking journeys, they are big and take up loads of room in your pack and they take ages to dry.

Travel pros like use micro-fibre dry towels series that roll up into tiny, space saving proportions AND they dry unbelievably quick. Granted, they are not quite as comforting as a cotton towel but its a trade of that travellers need to make. A good micro-fibre travel towers is essential travel gear on any ultimate backpacking gear list.

The Matador micro-fibre towel range are made by travellers for travellers. They are super light, and most importantly dry very quickly and are perfect for all types of backpacking trips.

#4  Travel Security Belt  (hide your cash!)

I take travel security very seriously, so I never travel without this incredible product.

To keep your money hidden on the road, I strongly recommend picking up one of these beauties – it has a hidden inner pocket in which you can hide up to twenty notes or some marijuana…

I never travel without a security belt and it’s helped me keep my money hidden and on my body whilst travelling through more dodgy countries but it’s useful for all types of backpacking trips. Travelling with a money belt is a small investment that helps keep your money safe.

#5 Combination Padlock (For your backpack and hostel lockers!)

Travel Padlocks are very important for a few reasons.

First, you can lock your bag up when you need to. Connect the lock between the two zippers and BOOM! Your bag is safe from any intruders. This will help keep you at ease when you have to be apart from your bag.

Padlocks are also VERY handy when staying in hostels. Most hostels provide some sort of lockers, but not all of them provide locks for those lockers (or even worse – they charge for them!). However, I don’t always trust hostel padlocks for security reasons and of course, little padlock keys are all too easy to lose.

Always pack a few good quality, combination padlocks. They slot easily into the little pockets and compartments of your backpack and are so very useful. Just remember to remember the combination…

#6 World Travel Adapter (a MUST have)

Travellers all hope for the same thing, that one day the world will unite, and all decide upon a universal size for power adapters…

Well until that happens, you’re going to need a travel adapter and they’re useful for all types of backpacking trips.

There are currently 15 different types of power adapter sizes in use around the world! The best way to ensure your beloved electronics get charged regardless of the country you are in is by using a universal adapter.

It’s worth splashing out a bit here and getting one that can charge a laptop and two USB devices at once.

#7 Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few and they are the perfect way to organise yourself when you’re packing for a backpacking trip.

These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money.

#8 A travel-friendly laptop!

We only really recommend bringing a laptop traveling for a few reasons. 1) You make money or need to work online, or 2) you really really love your laptop. Otherwise, backpacking is a great opportunity to unplug and get offline for a while.

For the Digital Nomads and laptop enthusiasts out there, you’ll want a high-quality piece of technology – and we’ve got just the thing for you.

One of the best investments we ever made was our MacBook Pros. It’s got a great UI, it’s very durable, and it helped us take The Broke Backpacker to the next level.

If you looking to start a blog, or make money online, it’s our highest recommendation. Check out this post for a full breakdown of travel-friendly laptops. 

#9 Nomatic Toiletry Bag (Convenience in ways you never thought possible)

Hygiene, haircare and skin care all need to be maintained during a backpacking trip and so you will need to bring along some toiletries.

The best way to do this is to invest a dedicated toiletry bag.

This one by Nomatic is possibly the best toiletry bag on the market. It is made from water resistant, wipe cleanable material that guarantees longevity and it offers excellent organisational capabilities. It is also comes with a hang-up-hook so you can hang it over the shower head or your hostel bed.

We like to say that we’ve never really feel like I’ve moved into a place until we hang up our toiletry bags. Backpacking travel toiletry bags rock!

#10 GoPro Hero9 Black

Every traveller needs a camera, right?

The performance of action cameras has increased significantly, whilst the overall price has come down – making them more affordable. GoPro is the leading action cam brand for a reason: the image quality and stabilization technology of their cameras are unmatched. What’s great is that you get a decent piece of camera gear in such a small package.

Of course, not everybody needs a camera as many of us are quite content to use our smart phones. Still, investing in one of these means you can take some awesome videos and capture those special treasured travel memories.

#11 – eSim by Onesim

The good news about Planet Earth is that there is excellent 4g and 5g Internet coverage, taxi apps and food delivery apps in pretty much all cities and towns (but it does get patchy once you venture out into the wilds and wilderness). The bad news is that your native SIM card will probably not work once your leave your native country and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can is,ply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the OneSim site, choose the package for whatever country you wish to visit, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

#12 – GPS Luggage Tracker

You may know this, but right now airlines are losing record amounts of bags and suitcases some of which are never to be seen again. To help to find your bag in the event it does go missing, just pop a GPS luggage tracker inside it and you will be able to identify exactly where on earth it is.

A good, reliable GPS luggage tracker has emerged as an essential piece of travel packing.

Psst! Wanna know what I also always travel with? A travel chess set , because I’m mad for it!

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Whilst we were all born naked, and have some of our best times naked, clothes are nevertheless a part and parcel of life pretty much anywhere on earth. Whilst dressing for day-to-day life at home is presumably second nature to you by now, dressing for travel can be a bit more complicated.

As such picking the right clothes when backpacking is super important. Here are a few tips to get you all started when compiling your backpacking clothes checklist…

• Pack light clothes – Hot or cold weather, pack clothes that fold up small and don’t weigh too much – avoid denim jeans and pack hiking pants instead! Even if you are heading to freezing weather, it’s better to bring clothes that you can layer up with rather than bringing a big heavy jacket. Cotton is light and breathes. Splurge on the more sweat-resistant stuff if you can and always pack some rain gear!
• Dress dark – Unleash your inner goth and dress dark! Darker clothes hide annoying stains and can be worn for longer. This is extra important because you can expect your backpacking clothes to be on a quicker rotation than your normal wardrobe.
• Bring fewer clothes  – Clothes can be found for pretty cheap in most parts of the world, so rather than overpack, bring slightly less than what you need and pick up anything else you might need on the road. This is especially true for places like India and Thailand where you can find amazing, local made clothes for amazing prices.

These are my top recommendations for the best clothes to wear while travelling/backpacking. This travel packing list will see you through heaps of different scenarios.

• Underwear (x5) : It can be surprisingly hard to find underwear that fits in Asia… Pack enough before you go backpacking!
• Thin hiking trousers (x1) : Craghoppers  for both men and women make the best stuff and their NosiLife range is impregnated with mosquito repellent. I’ve been wearing Columbia hiking pants for years and swear by them – it’s tough, light, good value and keeps mosquitoes at bay.
• Long-sleeved mosquito repellent shirt : A long sleeve sun shirt is a backpacking necessity when travelling to certain areas, mosquito repellent shirts are a lifesaver when trekking or hanging out in tropical climates.

• T-shirts / Tank tops (x4) : Easy to find on the road, don’t stress too much about these.
• Base Layer (x1) : Crucial for keeping warm, I swear by my Helley Hansen . Many can also double as a long sleeve sun shirt.
• Lightweight technical fleece : Essential when you’re on buses or trains that have the AC turned to ‘freezing’.
• Evening wear (x1)  While not quite backpacking necessities, it’s nice to have for a night on the town! Again, I tend to stick to Craghoppers; they have some smart shirts which are also tough and practical.

• Sunhat (x1) : If you’re heading to the scorched plains of Backpackistan, you need to keep your head covered. My Barmah bush-hat has accompanied me on many adventures.
• Buff (x1) : One of my favourite travel accessories on this backpacking checklist, I wear one on my wrist at all times; it’s great for keeping the sun off or covering your mouth and nose to keep dust out. I also use it as an eye mask on long haul transport and in dorm rooms.

• Indestructible sunglasses : I have probably destroyed over one hundred pairs of sunglasses… For a backpacking adventure, it’s worth investing in a decent pair of sunnies and I recommend Abaco; these are specifically built for travellers and are pretty much impossible to break.
• Warm Gear : If you’re heading into the mountains this is the most important section of the backpacking gear list. Do yourself a favour and pick up a pair of water-resistant gloves , a  hat with ear-flaps , a down jacket, good quality rain gear and some lightweight hiking shoes.

I’ve been using my RAB Neutrino for years and it was a great investment. I never travel without my RAB, I know that if I have to sleep rough I can survive a night as long as I have my trusty down jacket. It weighs just 650grams, folds down super small and will keep you very warm indeed.

• Trekking trainers : Don’t go travelling around the world without decent shoes! I personally swear by North Face Hedgehogs and have been wearing them for nearly a decade. They are a good lighter option to hiking boots.
• Technical sandals : If you’re going to be spending a lot of time trekking in the jungle, hanging out on the beach or sailing then it’s worth bringing a pair of good quality technical sandals; Teva  make the best hiking sandals in my opinion. Alternatively, you could pick up some lightweight hiking shoes.
• Flip Flops : Not all backpacking clothes has to be techy. You can make yourself comfy by packing a pair of these along. They’re essential on any backpacking clothing list!

Camera: If you want to take a camera and you’re new to photography I suggest getting something by Lumix , they offer great bang for your buck and is ideal for taking quality travel photos.  Check out this incredibly detailed post for a breakdown of the best travel cameras,  or best travel tripods if you’re really interested in travel photography.

Laptop : Since I make a living online, I travel with some top-notch tech. Buying a MacBook Pro was the single best investment I ever made. Whilst a laptop might not be on every backpacking trip list, if you’re blogger or photographer then you’ll be needing one.

Check out this incredibly detailed post for a breakdown of the best travel laptops for digital nomads and backpackers.

USB flash drive : Endlessly helpful.

USB card reader : Essential if you’re into your photography.

World Travel Adapter : This could easily top the list of backpacking essentials. It’s worth splashing out a bit here and getting one that can charge a laptop and two USB devices at once.

Smartphone : If you have a good smartphone, you might not need a camera – it totally depends on how much you care about your photos.

Portable battery : Extremely useful for keeping your phone and camera charged whilst adventuring. I travel with two as I’m often trekking and away from power.

If you’re a keen hiker or adventurer, you know that you’ll need to carry more gear… It’s great to pack light but if you’re spending a lot of time camping out or hiking through the mountains, it’s important to be prepared.  This camping gear checklist has got you covered on everything you’ll need for your epic hikes and camping delights.

Head-torch : One of the most useful items on this backpacking checklist! Head torches are useful for caving, hiking and bathroom trips when the power’s gone out.

Check out my post on the best headlamps for travel.

Pocket Blanket:  Lightweight, waterproof, super compact pocket blanket is a great addition to your backpacking checklist. Doubling up as an emergency poncho, a picnic blanket is worth its weight in gold when chilling, or camping, on the beach. This is a great item to have, even for someone looking for a minimalist backpacking list and if you want to roll around with your significant other, a picnic blanket is well worth packing.

Camping Hammock : Lighter and more portable than a tent. Plus, chicks dig hammocks… I always travel with a parachute hammock. Not an absolutely essential item, but one of my favourite items on this backpacking packing list.

Mosquito Net : Put a box-shaped net on your backpacking list if you’re headed to the Tropics.

Cable ties : Always worth packing a couple, especially if you’re off on a motorbiking adventure.

Carabiners : I always pack a couple of these. Simply clip them to your pack and use them when you need to attach stuff to the outside of your pack, fix things, hang up mosquito nets… They’re super useful on any backpacking trip checklist.

Sleeping bag liner : Useful when the sheets are not so clean or you want to sleep under a blanket but it’s damn hot. Check out all our favourite sleeping bag liners . If you’re serious about camping you might also want to look at some lightweight sleeping pads too.

Small sewing kit : Fix your own shit, you’ll save some money. In fact, whether you’re camping or not we reckon this should be on any backpacking packing list.

Pens and notebook : Don’t go travelling without them!

Travel workout equipment: You may want to throw a jump rope, a light yoga mat, and stretching strap to stay on top of your travel fitness game.

You may not need a lot of the gear below, but if you’re planning an epic expedition and will be away from civilization a lot it does make sense to invest in some of this must-have hiking gear. Some of us at TBB always travel with a tent as it has saved a ton of money on accommodation over the years. This is our hiking/camping gear checklist…

Multi-tool : We’ve been using our ultra-lightweight Leatherman Skeletool for years, it’s the perfect companion for any backpacking adventure. Check out our guide to the best multitools here for some more options.

Portable Stove : If you are hiking/camping, then this obviously needs to be on your backpacking equipment list. I have a pocket rocket which serves me well – check out my post on the top backpacking stoves  to find out if you really need a stove for your travels.

Tent : If you’re camping, you’ll need a tent… Check out my detailed post on  the best tents to take backpacking. 

Hammock: Even if you’re not sleeping on the beach, a camping hammock always comes in handy when backpacking and most hammocks take up next to no room in your pack. Check out my article on the best camping hammocks for travelling!

Sleeping pad and sleeping bag : Klymit makes the best value sleeping pads. Check out my post on the best sleeping pads to take backpacking. If you are hiking and camping a lot, this is obviously a must when it comes to your backpacking equipment list – without a sleeping pad, you will get seriously cold. You can also pick up a top-quality travel pillow too if you want to get extra comfy – we suggest one from the good people at TRTL .

Water bottle : Every backpacker should hit the road with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and help reduce your plastic footprint on our amazing planet.

Grayl Geopress: The best option for purifying water. – Once upon a time I lost my original Grayl… and soon after contracted a parasite from some questionable water. Since replacing it with the Geopress, I’ve been able to stay parasite-free at multiple high-altitude campsites and other escapades. It’s revolutionized my travels, and by buying one, you’ll also be helping out the planet by not adding to the plastic problem.

Water purification tabs : A much cheaper option for purifying water.

In our wash bags, my backpacking essentials are…

• Microfiber trav e l towel   -super lightweight and fast-drying
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Cotton buds
• Pack of tissues
• Decent sunscreen (often expensive to buy abroad)
• Razor with replacement blades
• Shaving gel
• Lau ndry bag

This travel toiletries list has all the essentials. Ladies – pack more as you may need.

It’s always worth packing a small first-aid kit. On our travels, we’ve been hospitalized multiple times between us, been in a couple of motorbike accidents and had more hangovers than you can count. They’re essential on any backpacking packing guide and our first aid kits saved my ass on more than one occasion…

I recommend picking up a pre-assembled first-aid kit  and then pimping it out with all of the below.

• Personal medicines such as inhalers
• Paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin
• Disinfectant spray
• Disinfectant wipes
• Mosquito repellent (at least 40% DEET)
• Antihistamines
• Bandages and gauze
• Plasters in various sizes
• Steri-strips
• Throat lozenges
• Ciprofloxacin (the best thing to take for traveller’s diarrhoea. Prescription only in the UK so please take medical advice before taking)
• Malaria pills if applicable

It helps to be organized before you hit the road; we travel with all of the below in a plastic wallet, it may sound nerdy but when you’re at a politically charged border crossing you will get across a lot faster if you are organized.

• Flight, train, and bus tickets
• Travel Security Belt: The best way to keep your money hidden.
• Address of your first hostel (even if it’s fake).
• Valid Passport
• A laminated copy of your passport
• Debit Cards x 2
• Credit Card
• Dollars or Euros
• Some, one-dollar bills for tips
• Driver’s license
• half a dozen passport photos for visas on arrival (you normally need two per visa).
• Insurance information, home contact details, and health information as part of a laminated card.

Backpacking Essentials – Travel Insurance!

Do you need Travel Insurance for your trip? Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. Have fun, but take it from us, overseas medical care and cancelled flights can be seriously expensive – insurance can, therefore, be a life-saver.

Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home. This is a backpacker’s essential item that many either forget about or ignore and we don’t want you to regret that!

We use World Nomads which specialises in covering digital nomads and backpackers. Why not get a quote from them yourself?

Do be sure to read the terms and conditions to make sure that the policy covers your needs.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Still, have some questions about our backpacking travel essentials guide? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the essential items for backpackers?

Every backpacker needs a good backpack ! After that pick up a good water bottle, some hiking boots and a compass.

What to pack for 3 months of backpacking?

Make sure you have a good travel backpack . Then bring a rain jacket, good shoes, 10 sets of underwear, and always remember a headtorch!

How much weight should you carry in a backpack?

Don’t pack more weight than you can carry and don’t put too much pressure on your backpack. As a general rule, don’t try to carry more than 20% of your own body weight.

What size backpack do I need for 3 months?

It depends on your travel style and what activities you hage planed. However typically we would suggest you bring a size between 50-65L.

We’ve been around the world a handful of times. My backpacking list comes with ten years of travel blood, sweat, and tears so have a proper read over this backpacking checklist and heed my advice, pack light but be sure to pack the things you need for your own travel style…

With the help of these packing lists, you’ll be able to figure out exactly what to pack for your trip so you can gallivant around the world knowing you’ve got everything you need for your adventure…

For more travel gear inspiration, check out my buddy Gianni’s ultralight packing list  and for the ladies, this excellent  travel packing list for women by Two Scots Abroad.

My friend Gemma has put together this detailed post on how to choose high-quality hiking pants for men.

Have we missed anything off our backpacker checklist? Are there any backpacking must-haves that you swear by that we’ve forgotten? Let us know below.

Joe Middlehurst

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73 Comments

Great post.

I’ve searching for exact items that need on my backpack journey. I’m still gathering the list and getting the items. Somethings I’ve found are a real necessity as emergency blanket, disposable rain coat and powerful power bank.

Be aware that some airports have restriction on the mAp of the powerback you can travel with. After years of travelling with a power bank that had a high mAp count, it was finally confiscated on an internal flight in Thailand, May 24.

Hi all !!! I’ve been going through your website for days now as I am planning my FIRST 6-months solo backpacking trip in southeast Asia (a way to end my student years on a high note ?).

Being a big nature addict, I will be traveling off the beaten paths as much as I can… (ex : planning several five-day-ish hikes in the mountains) BUT I also plan on enjoying some touristy, beach, chill activities + working from my laptop!!!

Therefore, I’ve been wondering how much of all this camping gear I should take with me… For instance, it’s great to have a portable stove when you need one, but is it necessary to carry it around for six months ? Is it realistic to carry a tent+a laptop+all the backpacking necessities+all the camping gear ? In short, how would you recommend combining adventure, working nomad and tourist modes in my backpack ? + Where do you leave your unnecessary stuff (ex: laptop…) when you go camping in the mountains for a week ?

Thanks a lot for taking the time to answer me, and for your amazing website !!!

Generally you can pay to have your stuff stored either at hostels or guesthouses in most SEA countries. If you are really going off grid you will need to be self sufficient and have the items you need with you, including a way to cook.

Some things you will be able to get in SEA but quality camping gear can be harder to come by and expensive. It’s certainly feasible to carrying all the gear you need plus laptop etc and store other things while camping.

Really good post you have there. One thing I would like to add is this Cocoon Grid It Organiser my boyfriend got for his Christmas present. It keeps all your techy electrical things together in one place and they never fall out. We have the one which stores his MacBook air, his kindle, charging cables, adaptor plugs, spare batteries and pens. You can mix and match. You should have a look as you have quite a bit of gadgets there.

great tips for backpackers and checklist. Must give suggestions about hygiene during such adventurous trips.

Long time fan, first time caller. Thanks for this excellent packing guide, and for all the other useful content on the site. I’m off to India & South America so this resource has proved super useful!

My question was, do you have any “best practice” tips on how best to store your passport + other small valuables? I’m guessing keeping them on you is your best bet, but was specifically wondering if there was anything similar to the cash storage wallet that you’d recommend?

Many thanks in advance!

Hey Will! So personally, I always keep emergency cash and a photocopy of my passport rolled up and hidden in a zipper in my security belt – it’s basically a normal looking belt but on the inside there’s a zip and you can hide stuff in there – really helpful! For my passport, personally I hide it as deep in my backpack as possible, it isn’t practical to take it out on nights out or when exploring so it stays, hidden, with my main backpack.

The broke backpacker promoting links to a towel that costs 45-50 quid. You think you might have lost touch with your target audience from getting so much sponsorship you’ve forgotten what it’s like to be an actual broke backpacker?!

Hi Kayleigh,

I think you may have happened upon a listing on amazon.co.uk for one of our Active Roots towels. This is not being sold by us, nor does that company act as a reseller for us.We would not recommend buying from them. We only sell on amazon.com, the towel is around 19.99usd. Hope that helps clarify.

Hi, the link for the Backpacker Bible isn’t working! Is there another link I can try? I’d like to check it out and possibly purchase! Preparing for a huge RTW trip, and this site has been a literal lifesaver!

Hey, the link is now working! It looks like there was a temporary error, but NO FEARS!!! Now you get your free reading material for your adventure! 🙂

I just want to say thanks for this entire site. Everything about it is super useful and you’ve made it easy to read and navigate. I’m very grateful for you! Best wishes in your future travels xx

Thanks as always for visiting! Good luck on your next backpacking adventure!

Such a complete list. I will keep it in my mind and remember this before my next trip. Thanks for the sharing such an informative article.

Glad you found it useful.

thanks for the post

Thanks for the information

Nice list…except for the 70Lts backpack. as much space you have, you always tend to fill it up. I wont go for more than 40Lts

At the last minute, I chucked a small roll of duct tape into my pack. This tape patched a ripped daypack, stopped a cracked glass bottle from leaking, made a makeshift handle for heavy bags after the handles broke, and covered the open ports on my phone/camera when I went to the beach. Genius product which made other travellers extremely jealous 🙂

Antibiotics (ciprofloxacin) should only be used in special cases of traveller’s diarrhoea, and at least not self-diagnosed! You shouldn’t be advising people bringing it on their trip.

Trust me buddy, when you are in the middle of the mountains with no clinic or hospital for several days walk, it’s worth having a well packed medi-kit.

Being a 46 year old backpacker myself this was still extremely informative! I’m heading out next month for what may be my last year solo. Doing All of South America! Would you happen to have this list in a printable format?

Hi! Great tips – great list, thank you.

I have backpacked a lot – and am now dragging my husband and kids around the globe as much as I can. Sadly, I have discovered that I am getting more sqeamish about sleep. Really prefer to avoid other people’s grime and itchy blankets (argh the thoughts of wet, dirty, woolly blankets in a hostel i Nainitaal)… So, am thinking of investing in some ultra-thin sleeping bags for us – or travel sheets. Do you have any thoughts or recommendations? I realise something ultra-thin and backpack friendly won’t be warm, but it is just so we can sleep in our own dirt – dirty, wet woolly blankets can go on top…

Wow, I do sound like an old, prissy lady!

Thanks in advance

– where are you now? we are going to Iran next month 🙂

I traveled with a silk sleeping bag liner for this exact reason – they are really great! 🙂

that’s what i thought, thanks 🙂

there are items on this list that cannot be in a carry on backpack (like the leatherman multitool), how do you solve that issue?

thanks in advance.

Valid point about the leatherman skeletool… normally however I travel overland or with hold luggage as I DO have a fair bit of stuff – camping equipment mostly 😉

Hi Will!!! Big fan of your blog as your writing is captivating and has inspired me to do more with the years left on my clock! and for that my friend I thank you! Now I was really curious how you keep your stuff save from petty theft when camping out with your hammock? Vietnam in particular.

Hey Josh! Personally, most or all of my valuables usually stay in my daypack which never leaves my side unless I’ve been able to lock it up somewhere… petty theft can be a problem for sure, for a longtime though I had nothing worth stealing 😛

Great list. After reading this I realized my packing suit needs to be upgraded. And first of all, I need to replace the heaviest items with lighter ones. And it’s high time that I obtained a dry bag. Have no idea how I could do without it. Thank you for sharing this.

Hi question about the day pack you recommend, the zomake small pack… some of the reviews I ve read say it s not waterproof as advertised. what is your experience with it in the rain? We are traveling to Colombia at the end of their rainy season and I would like a day pack that is waterproof. By the way I love your website, Thank you.

Hey Michelle, it certainly isn’t super waterproof but it can take some rain… just not being dumped in a river! 🙂

Wow what a tremendous checklist. I just love your list. I love travelling. And i have been thinking about my next travelling. Many time i love to pack my backpacking. This time i will must follow your checklist and hope so it will be more comfortable for me. From here i know some new items which is essential for bring with me when i am packing my backpack. If you had more insight i will greatly appreciate it. Thanks for the sharing such a informative also helpful article.

Thank you so much for sharing your tips and experience. I always bring my travel towel and my hammock – it can be a lifesaver.

Awesome checklist, man! I have to say that the most important thing I’ve ever brought with me on my backpacking trips—especially to South Sudan—has been a hammock. Having a hammock is like having a heaven bed and a partner at the same time. I’ve laughed with, cried with, and disclosed my innermost secrets to my hammock, whom I consider to be my best friend and potential marriage partner.

Well, I don’t want to be rushing about from place to place, going everywhere and not really getting to see much if you know what I mean, so SE Asia?

Hi, I really like your list, my boyfriend and I have just started to plan our travels. We are going for a year, I’d love to go for longer but I’m a nurse and the longer I go without working the harder it is to get back into nursing. Is there anywhere in particular you would recommend? So far we are thinking a month of interrailing in Europe then getting the Trans-siberian railway to Beijing and winging it from there so any adivce would be appreciated!

A year of backpacking sounds like an epic trip! As for advise – can you be a bit more specific about what you’re looking for? There’s so many epic places in the world to visit…

So very hard to know what to pack in that small bag, but your guidance and tips certainly help with the selection.

Great work.

Cheers Sharon…

Great article! I love reading about what other travelers bring with them. A few of those I wished I realized before I started my travels (eg first-aid kit and ear plugs). I also love that you included condoms twice…you can never be too careful.

I read one of the comments above that discussed how bringing as many electronics as you suggest makes it “too comfortable.” I disagree, I believe that travel is different for everybody and you should be as comfortable as you want to. I have no plans on going on any vision quests or anything, so making sure I have my laptop and chargers on me is a necessity.

My trip might be a bit less intense than yours (less camping), so if you’re ever curious on what a city-dwelling traveler brings in his bag you can check out my new “what’s in my bag” post:

http://www.citizensofeverywhere.cc/2018/02/09/round-the-world-packing-list/

Look forward to reading the rest of your posts, looks like I have a lot to catch up on!

Adam http://www.citizensofeverywhere.com

Hi Will, Love the packing list and your blog in general! Despite having travelled for years I have just started in the travel blogging world. I’m developing my website at the moment and would love it if you have the time to take a look and give me your feedback. Apologies if you get requests all the time but if you are game then I would appreciate it! Kind Regards Charlie

Great packing list!! Most of the time i over pack my backpack. This will help me a lot. Which size backpack do you prefer for travel?

You have shared a great list. And I must say that a simple and light weight camera is a must. Who would not want to capture the great moments while on a trek

I think this is a great list.Your Article is Wonderful! A lot of Great Tips and Very nicely written. I have learned a lot from your article Thank you for sharing with us.

Great list and images alongside 🙂 Think we need to upgrade some of our gear before our next trip after reading this! Cheers.

After reading your list I tend to leave the laptop at home and just stick with my phone, I try to reduce the whole electronics and leave what I can behind.

But I agree you have to pack for the kind of trip your taking. I tend to find that backpacking is a great way with getting to know yourself more and you do meet a lot of people from all walks of life. The amount of friends I have made over my time backpacking its nice.

But I do try and stick to the essentials when I backpack. 🙂

Great Read and great list 😉

Cheers dude and yeah I totally hear you – there are advantages to leaving the electronics behind; harder when you’re going for years at a time though!

Hi there,Im heading to south east asia for about 5 months end of november, i was just wondering the vaccinations you recommend which I should get done as hospitals try hook you up with things that are not really needed.

Tetnus and the Heps are usually worth getting… 🙂

Will, great list of gear…but how much does your kit generally weigh? Seems like it could be damn heavy!!!

I agree that toiletries is the most important things we should carry with us whenever we plan to travel somewhere. If you’re going on a short trip and you don’t have any check-in baggage, you need to make sure that any toiletries you bring don’t fall foul of the 100 ml/3 oz limit.

This is especially relevant for women (who tend generally to carry more cosmetics type stuff) and first time travellers. The number of newly bought toiletries I have seen confiscated at airport security, by now, would number in the high hundreds of litres. Check it in or keep it under 100ml for hand luggage. I can only imagine where all that product ends up.

Hello Will,It’s a good list for easy living.I have just done a 4 month motorcycle trip around most of S/East Asia and as far as electronics go,all I took was a $15 cell phone.My total pack weight was 18kg and did trip in the wet season.Lots of fun.I feel that too much gear and all the electronics you suggest,makes the trip to easy,(comforts of home)might as well stay home.It is fun getting lost,you do finish up in some cool places,you might never have,discovered.

I love your bio. I from Venezuela

very nice post. thanks for sharing! will definitively check it before I travel next time.

All this goes in one bag that you have on you all the time? it all fits?

Nah, I tailor what I take based on what kind of trip it is…

But i dont get it, what do you do to all the stuff, i mean, you are backpacking, if you have sleeping bags to go hiking and then you go to a city and you dont need it, you throw it away?

sorry my english sucks haha love your blog, i click on every sponsor you have 😉

Epic list Will! I wish we bought a GSP device when we started travelling. I thought it was a bit overkill but it would have saved the day a few times in India!

A valid point!! It’s not often I miss something like that… my hat off to you Sir!

for the more adventurous ones, hammocks and a good tent. travelled 4 months in SEA, and quite possibly spent a month in the tent to reduce accommodation expenses.

A hammock or a tent are a great way to save money but they do weigh you down, you need to work out what kind of trip you want and plan accordingly – whenever I hitchhike, I take camping gear 🙂

Excuse me, when you sleep outside in a tent how do you go to the bathroom?

Dig a hole my friend, dig a hole.

Bandanas (2), shemagh scarf, Paracord, pharaoh rod (metal match). What does your pack weigh? Mine is currently 35lbs. Id prefer 30 but doesn’t seem possible to lose anything.

You can never have enough Bandanas….. Mine is around the 30 mark 🙂

You can do almost anything with a shemaugh and paracord!

Thanks, Serena

I haven’t heard of this but it sounds pretty awesome; going to check it out now! 🙂

Digital copies of your preferred travel guides can be loaded onto your tablet. Save the weight, don’t take the book!

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The ultimate packing list | travel checklist for for wherever you travel.

Our curated travel checklist to help you pack and prepare for your next vacation.

So you’ve finally booked your travel but now comes the most annoying and confusing part — packing and making sure you’ve done everything to be fully prepared. We travel thousands of miles a year so we have this packing thing down to a science. That’s why we’ve created this travel checklist (which also includes our favorite travel gear) to ensure you don’t forget anything during the pre-travel chaos.

We’ve divided this packing list into multiple sections:

Summer Clothing

Winter & off-season clothing, travel accessories, travel technology.

• Luggage & Packing Aids

Pre-Travel Checklist

More packing resources.

Let’s start with clothing since this is the bulk of what you’ll be packing.

• Underwear/Bras: A few quality pairs of underwear will make traveling much more comfortable — especially on an extended trip. Check out our favorite travel underwear to learn more.
• Sleepwear: Travel is exhausting so a good night’s sleep is essential. Wear whatever is comfortable.
• Athleta : Athleta has really stepped up their travel clothing and they have a lot of solid options. Some of their offerings feel like yoga clothes but there are some non-yoga choices.
• Lululemon : Lululemon has a number of good travel clothing options. Again, many of their options look a little too “athleisure” but there are some nice-looking choices.
• Prana : Prana is a company that has traditionally made outdoorsy clothing but they’ve recently started making more fashionable items.
• Anatomie : Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end, fashionable travel clothing.
• Uniqlo : Uniqlo always has a few great travel clothing options that are friendly on your bank account. Their stock is always changing so be sure to check them out.
• Shorts & Skirts: Warm weather calls for shorts and skirts — plus they take up very little space in your bags.
• T-Shirts: We always pack a couple of t-shirts for day-to-day travel and they work well for sleep. We like wool t-shirts from Wool & Prince and Unbound .
• Dress/Dress Shirt: We pack one slightly more formal outfit if we want to dress up a bit. Wool & Prince has nice wool options and Bluffworks has some nice synthetic options.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget a swimsuit if you’re heading to somewhere with a beach or pool.
• Light Jacket: Unless you’re traveling in the middle of summer, it’s usually smart to pack a light jacket — they’re also nice for chilly plane rides. Fleece or lightweight puff jackets are our favorite options. We love our Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater but anything will do.
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain jacket is nice if you’re traveling during rainy times. REI has a nice selection.
• Waterproof Shoes/Boots: We highly suggest waterproof or weather-resistant footwear if you’re not traveling during the summer. We like waterproof sneakers since they’re comfortable and functional. There are also more hiking-style shoes if you want a little more support.
• Shower Sandals: If you’re staying in a hostel or other budget accommodation then we highly recommend a cheap pair of sandals.
• Belt: Keep your pants on. Worried about safety? Check out these hidden pocket travel belts .
• Hat: You’ll probably spend a lot more time outside then normally so be sure to bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunglasses: We also suggest bringing a protective case or bring a pair that you won’t mind losing.
• Watch: Don’t miss that train because you’re late. We like using a watch instead of looking at our phone all the time simply because we don’t have to constantly pull our phones out.

Winter is great as long as you know how to dress for the cold weather and possible rain/snow. The real key is layering a few key pieces of clothing to create maximum warmth without adding a ton of bulk.

• Good Socks: A few nice pair of socks will help keep your feet warm and dry — which is essential in the cold weather. We like to put on a fresh pair halfway through the day. Smartwool & Darn Tough are our favorite brands but there are plenty more on REI .
• Base Layer: A thin base layer will add a ton of warmth so we always throw on a pair of long underwear. Our favorite fabric is fine merino wool since it is warm and resists odors. Synthetic is a much cheaper option but it doesn’t do a very good job of resisting odors. Browse REI to find something in your price range.
• Mid-Layer: A nice fleece or lightweight puffer jacket will add a ton of warmth when worn under a larger coat — and it’s especially warm when paired with a base layer. We use the Patagonia Nanopuff and Patagonia Better Sweater .
• Long-Sleeve Shirt: A long-sleeve shirt, whether a sweater or a button-up, are both great ways to add warmth without adding bulk.
• Hat, Gloves, & Scarf: Keep your extremities warm.
• Water-Resistant Footwear: Ideally, you’ll want a pair of waterproof shoes for those rainy or snowy days. Weather-resistant footwear is also a good option because fully-waterproof shoes aren’t always easy to find — especially if you don’t want boots or if you’re concerned about fashion.
• Winter Coat: A warm waterproof coat is a must if you’re traveling in really cold climates. REI has the best selection so check them out.
• Notebook & Pens: A small notebook is a great travel accessory because you never know when you’ll need to jot something down. We like to write down addresses and confirmation numbers so we don’t have to go searching through emails. Moleskine Notebooks are the classic choice.
• Guide Books: We’re still fans of guidebooks since they’re a quick and easy way to see what to check out in each location we visit. We’re fans of Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
• USB w/ Important Info: Honestly, these days I save all my important information (credit card info, passport copy, etc.) to my Google Docs but it’s not a bad idea to have the information saved to a USB that you can hide.
• Travel Towel: If you’re staying in a hotel or rental apartment you don’t need a travel towel but people staying in hostels should consider packing a quick-drying travel towel .
• Money Belt: While we’ve never been big fans of money belts, there are a lot of people who swear by them. Check Amazon as there are multiple options there.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: An eye mask can be nice for sleeping on planes/trains and earplugs can be nice for noisy environments.
• Stain Remover: Washing your clothes isn’t easy while on the road so a stain remover will come in handy. Tide2Go Pens is our top pick.
• Handwashing Stuff: If you want to wash clothing in your sink then you’ll want a sink stopper , travel soap , and possibly a travel clothesline .
• Lint Roller: Be gone vile lint!
• Door Stop/Lock: If you’re staying in an unfamiliar place or traveling alone then using something like a portable doorstop or this portable door lock adds some extra security.
• Padlock: You’ll want a basic padlock if you’re staying in hostels so you can lock your lockers.

• Portable Battery Pack: Travel (especially GPS) kills your phone’s battery so a portable battery is a must these days. Amazon has multiple chargers so get whatever fits your budget.
• Plug Adaptor: If you’re traveling internationally then you’ll need a few plug adaptors for your electronics.
• Headphones: Confession, I love my Apple AirPods cause they’re amazing for travel. Not having to deal with wires or bulky headphones is a godsend — especially on flights. That said, we still pack a pair of normal earbuds just in case.
• Extra USB Cables: You can never have too many USB charger cables since I always seem to lose at least one when I travel. That’s why we throw an extra cable into your daypack so we always have one within reach.
• Portable Power Strip: Many hotels and hostels don’t have a lot of electrical outlets so a portable power strip is a nice thing to have. We use this Belkin Travel Power Strip because it also has USB ports.
• International Data Plan: Check your phone plan’s international rates because international data could cost you a fortune. While we’ve never used one, mobile hotspots have become a popular option if you need reliable data wherever you’re traveling.
• Camera w/ Extra Memory Cards: If you’re a photo geek then you’ll want to pack your digital camera. These days we mostly use our phones to take photographs but a camera is a must if you want really nice photos.
• Laptop/Tablet: We rarely travel with a laptop but we love our iPads. They’re great for travel since they’re small and powerful.
• Blowdryer/Curling Iron: Make sure your accommodation provides a blowdryer. If not, we suggest a travel hairdryer since they take up less space. Traveling abroad? Ensure you get a dual-voltage hairdryer or you’ll fry your North American dryer since Europe uses a higher voltage. The same goes for hair straighteners/curlers.

Travel Toiletries

• Pepto-Bismol Tablets: Travel can wreak havoc on your digestive system and Pepto tablets are easy to throw in your bag.
• Band-Aids: We mostly use bandaids for those pesky blisters on our heels so we always pack a few heavy-duty bandaids. There are also bandages for your heels if you’re prone to blisters.
• Body Powder: Lots of walking in hot weather can lead to chaffing — which is never any fun. Body power is a great way to help prevent some uncomfortable situations. We like Anti Monkey Butt or good ol ‘ Gold Bond powder .
• OTC Pain Medicine: Medicine is often only sold in pharmacies but many pharmacies are only open for limited hours so we always pack some so we at least have a few pills on hand.
• Basic Makeup: It’s easy to go overboard with makeup so we suggest only bringing the basics. Here are some skincare products and cosmetics .
• Toothpaste: We either start with a small tube and buy it once we arrive or throw in whatever we have at home. It also depends if we’re flying carry-on only or not.
• Toothbrush and Toothbrush Cover: We just pack our normal toothbrush and we clip on a self-sanitizing brush protector to help keep it clean.
• Floss: We’ve found floss to be expensive in some places so pack some.
• Shampoo/Bodywash: If you’re traveling with a carry-on then we highly recommend putting your liquids and gels into Go Toob travel containers because they won’t leak.
• Deodorant: Don’t stink.
• Sunscreen: We buy ours online since it’s expensive in the stores.
• Lip Balm: We pack a few tubes of lip balm because always end up losing a couple.
• Face Wipes : A pack of Resealable Face Wipes is great for freshening up after a long plane ride. Throw a pack into your carry-on.
• Moisturizer: Travel can be very dehydrating — especially flights.
• Jet Lag Pills: Arrive not feeling like a zombie. Miers Labs No Jet Lag is the most popular choice.
• Hand Sanitizer: To sanitize your hands.
• Contact Solution: Finding contact solution can be surprisingly tough in some places
• Perfume/Cologne: Scents and memory have a powerful connection so we like wearing a new fragrance when we travel somewhere new. We’re cheapos so we’ll often get some free samples from the store. But we suggest packing a Refillable Perfume Bottle Atomizer if you already have a fragrance you already own.
• Nail Clippers: Keep your nail game strong.
• Wet Wipes: These can be a lifesaver when you’re on the road.

Luggage And Packing Aids

• To learn more, check out our article on the best travel backpacks & the best travel backpacks for women .
• Daypack: You’ll want a smaller bag or backpack to wear while you’re out exploring during the day. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy but we recommend something with secure zippers to deter pickpockets. Here’s a list of our favorite daypacks .
• Toiletries Bag: Keep all your toiletries organized. We prefer toiletry bags that have a hook in case you’re staying in a bathroom with little/no counter space. Amazon has multiple options.
• Packing Cubes: The best way to keep all your clothing organized and relatively wrinkle-free is by using packing cubes. We always use packing cubes these days so check out our guide to the best packing cubes to learn more.
• Travel Liquid Bottles: There is nothing worse than when your liquids leak all over your stuff so we highly recommend using the GoToob Leak-Proof Travel Bottles .
• Plastic Bags/Ziplock Bags: Throw in a few plastic bags and ziplock bags since they come in handy. We pack our important documents in a ziplock bag for protection and we’ll put extra shoes in a plastic bag to protect our clothing from dirty shoes.
• Coin Bag: If you’re traveling to Europe then we suggest packing a small change purse/pouch since you’ll get lots of coins.

Ok, so you have everything packed but there are a few more things to think about before you depart.

• Get Travel Insurance: If you’re going on a big trip then you might want to consider picking up some travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical emergency or travel interruptions. We use World Nomads since they offer affordable insurance.
• Triple Check Your Travel Dates: You would be surprised at how many people mix up their travel dates — especially with international flights where you arrive a day later than when you left because of the time zones.
• Book Accommodation: You’ll almost always get the best deal on hotels, hostels, and rental apartments by booking early. We like Hostelworld for hostels, Booking.com for hotels, and Airbnb for rental apartments.
• Book Train Travel: Traveling Europe by train? You might save a good amount if you book your tickets early. Check out our guide on How To Travel Europe by Train . Also, if you’re traveling with a Eurail Pass then you’ll want to order it a few weeks before departure.
• Get Your Passport: Double-check your passport and make sure it is still valid since it can take a few weeks to get a new passport. Check out the State Department’s Passport page for information.
• Write Down Reservation Numbers: We like to write down all our reservation numbers in a small notebook so we don’t have to go searching through our email for those elusive numbers.
• Call Credit Card & Bank: Let your bank and credit card companies that you’ll be traveling because they might cancel your cards once you start using them overseas. We also recommend bringing an extra credit card for emergencies.
• Make Copies of Important Documents: Take a photo of your passport and credit cards and save them to your Google Drive or email them to yourself. This will help you get them replaced quickly if they get lost/stolen.
• Research Where You’re Going: You don’t have to plan out every minute of every day but spend a few hours researching things like what to see, cool restaurants, and nice bars. This way you don’t have to worry about missing something you really want to experience.
• Figure Out How To Get From Airport/Train Station: There are often a handful of ways to get from the airport to your accommodation so it’s smart to do your research before you arrive — especially if the destination is known for crooked taxi drivers.
• Download Audioguides: We’re big fans of Rick Steves’ free audioguide walking tours so we make sure to check if he’s made one for our destination.
• Check Your Phone’s Data Plan: Be sure to check your phone’s international data plan to see if you can use it abroad or see how much it will cost to use data.
• Hold Your Mail: If you’re going to be gone for a long time then you’ll want to have the post office put a hold on your mail.
• Break-In Your Shoes: Don’t make the mistake of wearing brand-new shoes as that’s a surefire way to get painful blisters. So put some miles on your shoes before you depart.
• Research The Weather: It’s impossible to predict the weather but you should take a look a few days before you depart so you can tailor your clothing choices.
• Arrange Visas: Not every country requires a visa for entry but some do so you’ll need to take that into consideration and give yourself enough time to get them.
• International Drivers License: Not every country requires an international driver’s license so do some research you plan on driving.
• Don’t forget to weigh your luggage to make sure you’re under the weight limits. We suggest picking up a luggage scale .
• Pack Some Travel Snacks: Having a stash of simple travel snacks like beef jerky, granola bars, etc. is always a good idea.
• Consider Getting Some Currency: Some people like to get a small amount of foreign currency before they depart. ATMs are easy to find these days but having a little cash on hand when you arrive gives you a nice piece of mind.

We’re always writing about the best travel gear and giving your our favorite packing tips. Here’s a list of more articles we’ve written in the past:

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Best Travel Pants for Men
• Best Travel Underwear (Men’s and Women’s )
• Best Hiking Socks For Backpacking Europe
• Guide to Fashionable Travel Clothes and Performance Techwear
• Best Daypacks and Day Bags for Traveling Europe
• Best Packing Cubes
• How To Properly Pack Your Backpack for Maximum Organization & Wrinkle-Free Clothing
• Guide to Ultralight Backpacking and Travel in Europe
• Tips for Choosing Between a Backpack or Wheeled Luggage
• Guide To Dressing For Winter in Europe
• How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe
• Women’s European Fashion — Tips for Dressing like a European
• Skincare, Makeup and Beauty Essentials For Travel
• Recent Posts
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3189 Edited Articles

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Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Vacation (with Printable Travel Checklist)

Africa Packing Lists , Asia Packing Lists , Central America Packing Lists , Europe Packing List , Ireland Packing List , North America Packing Lists , Oceania Packing Lists , Packing Tips , South America Packing Lists

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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!

The Ultimate Packing List

This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:

• Printable Travel Checklist: editable spreadsheet with summary of all items
• Packing List by Categories: see table of contents below
• General Packing Tips: how to pack efficiently

This is the Table of Contents:

Printable Travel Checklist

• Packing List For Luggage
• Packing List For Clothes
• Packing List For Toiletries
• Packing List For First Aid Kit
• Packing List For Makeup
• Packing List For Hair and Grooming
• Packing List For Electronics
• Packing List For Backpacking Gear

Travel Documents and Money

Travel safety.

• Pre-trip Checklist

General Packing Tips

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

• you can write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• you can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• and most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item

Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!

  Packing List by Categories

Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.

Luggage: Delsey Turenne Carry On | Carry-on Personal Item: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Airplane Outfit: Top , Bottom , Shoes

I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.

Best Selling Carry-on: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage

Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.

If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel .

You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.

A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!

Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose

In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!

• Packing Cubes for Clothes
• Packing Organizer for Accessories
• Packing Organizer for Electronics
• Toiletry Bag
• First Aid (if applicable)
• Document Holder
• Other Organizers (as needed)
• Daypack/Personal item

Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest! 

Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless

No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?

Shirt | Tank  |  Shorts | Sandals | Hat

These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe . These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Best Selling T-Shirt: L.L. Bean Pima Tee

In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel . It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.

• Dress (or other) 1
• Dress (or other) 2

Visit our  travel clothing category for product suggestions including the best travel pants , stylish travel dresses , and the best  cold weather items .

TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly

Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.

You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe

Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel .

For underwear , we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear .

• Outerwear 1
• Outerwear 2
• Sleepwear 1
• Sleepwear 2
• Underwear 1-10

Add thermal underwear for cold weather trips!

Leith Dress  ( similar) |   Naot Sabrina Flat Sandal |  Rebecca Minkoff Backpack | Sunhat

Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.

Best Walking Shoes For Travel: Skechers Go Walk 4 Charcoal Comfortable Sneakers

For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.

We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats , walking shoes , travel sandals , hiking shoes , waterproof boots , ankle boots , and more.

• Purse – Day
• Purse – Night
• Sunglasses Case
• Watch (or Travel Clock)
• Gloves (if applicable)

Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.

Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries

Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.

“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.

Best Selling Toiletry Bag: eBags Pack-it-Flat Hanging Toiletry Kit

Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.

• Conditioner
• Leave-In Conditioner
• Soap/Body Wash
• Deodorant/Antiperspirant
• Body Moisturizer
• Face Moisturizer

Optional Toiletries:

• Baby Powder (hot climates)
• Pumice Stone
• Hair Styling Product
• Female Urinal Device
• Menstrual Cup
• Toilet Paper

Read this guide on how to choose toiletries for your trip .

First Aid Kit (optional)

Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit ”.

• Prescription Medication
• Contact Solution (if needed)
• Pain Relievers
• Travel-size Tissue Packet
• Digestion Tablets
• Upset Stomach Medication
• Allergy Pills
• Motion Sickness Tablets
• Antibacterial wipes/gel
• Bug Repellant (Deet-Free)
• Travel Size Sewing Kit

Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.

Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.

• Eyebrow Pencil
• Eye shadow palette
• Lipstick/lip gloss

Read this guide on how to downsize your makeup when traveling.

Hair / Grooming

Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer: BaBylissPRO Travel Dryer

Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.

• Travel Size Hair Brush
• Travel Size Mirror

Optional Hair Tools:

• Travel Size Blow Dryer
• Travel Size Hair Dryer Brush 
• Travel Size Flat Iron 
• Travel Size Curling Iron 

Read more tips on styling your hair while traveling .

A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!

Electronics

The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.

International Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad . Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.

• International Travel Adapter
• Phone Charger
• Phone Cover
• Camera Charger
• Camera Battery 
• Camera Memory Card
• Camera Cover
• Memory Stick (with important info)
• e-Reader Charger
• e-Reader Cover

Optional Electronics:

• Tablet Charger
• Tablet Cover
• Laptop Charger
• Laptop Cover
• Laptop Case
• Screen Protector
• Keyboard Protector
• External Hard Drive
• External Hard Drive Cord
• Portable Power Bank
• Portable Power Bank Cord
• Music Device
• Music Device Charger

Read this post for tips on preparing your electronics before a flight .

Editor’s Favorite Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (similar)

Backpacking/Budget Travel Gear

(if applicable)

If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.

Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.

• Sleeping Bag Liner
• 2 Travel Locks
• Travel Towel
• Swiss Army Knife
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Packable Tote
• Mosquito Net
• Pillow Case
• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Line
• Travel Pillow
• Disposable Poncho
• Travel Size Umbrella
• Passport Size Photos (for visas on the go)

If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post. If you’re staying at hostels, read this post. If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.

With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.

• Passport Copy
• Passport Holder
• Boarding Pass
• Itinerary (some airlines require this printed when you have to check in in-person)
• Visas in passport (if needed)
• Immunization Records (if there are health requirements such as yellow fever)
• Emergency Cash in USD (enough for one full day)
• Credit Cards
• Drivers License / Alternate Form of ID
• Language Guide
• Notebook (to note addresses in paper, not phone)
• Pen (to fill out immigration forms)
• Emergency Contact Info
• Travel Insurance
• Copies of all travel documents (in memory card, USB stick, or stored in email)

Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.

Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.

Compass Rose RFID Secret Bra Wallet

Anti-theft products  that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!

Best Selling Anti-theft Bag: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Black Messenger Bag

While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse  in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.

• RFID Anti-theft Bra Wallet
• Anti-theft Travel Purse (optional)

Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling .

Pre-Trip Checklist

These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.

• Call banks to inform of travel plans
• Immunizations
• Check weather at destination
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check visa regulations
• Check immunization requirements (i.e. yellow fever)

Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube ! 

In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.

The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!

The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes . When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint .

The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.

Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!

Destination Packing Lists

We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!

For destinations, please read:

• Europe Packing Lists
• Asia Packing Lists
• Africa Packing Lists
• North America Packing Lists
• South America Packing Lists
• South Pacific Packing Lists

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I hope you liked this travel packing list of things to bring on vacation! Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

96 comments.

Your packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!!

Is ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site!

Love this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel!

The idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to!

Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful.

This list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!!

Super helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it!

Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you!

I have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem!

I have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas!

I printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks !

Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information!

Love, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳

I have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack. I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot. Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!!

I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol!

Thanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe!

I’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes.

This is so helpful! I love the lists!

Love these tips!! Super helpful !!!

Never j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them!

Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful.

These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video.

I love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel.

I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip.

I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing.

I have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it. If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip! Thank you!!

I love this blog!! These packing lists are a lifesaver!!

Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time!

While researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!!

Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers.

I honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best.

When I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂

Love, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration!

This spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all!

Thank you for these wonderful suggestions!!! Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you!!!! Love those pants!!!! I need them!!!!

Love this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!!

I love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal.

The packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only?

Hi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

I love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media. All my best, and safe travels.

Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal!!!

Thank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise. Would recommend this to any traveller. M. J. Sutherland

That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean!!! Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢

Hey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken.

Hi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog.

If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at [email protected] and we will send you a copy straight away.

I pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested.

Hi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂

I’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack. I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try).

Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂

Thank you Theresa!

Hi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx

Hi Liz, read this: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-singapore-vacation-tips-from-local-fashion-blogger/

I love detailed lists – helped me stay organized when I travel. Thank you for this!

Great post! I will go to Sicily soon and this look like a great way to start organizing my trip.

Thanks Patrizia!

Thank you so much for this wonderful resource.

Glad you like it Michala!

As always I love reading all your post, but this one is probably my favorite!! It’s packed with really helpful tips, it’s something I always come back to, and is in many cases encouraging…. Lol but that couldn’t be any more true!!

Yay!!! Glad you enjoyed it even more than the others 🙂

This list makes me happy! Im an excel spreadhseet list make and this is perfect for a base to customize. Thanks!

Glad you like it! enjoy 🙂

So in going through the Ultimate Packing List (thank you for this by the way), I have a question about the clothes the traveler is wearing! I assume that’s included in the 10 items, but per the packing list, they are packed in something. You don’t get an extra set of clothes on top of the 10 items, right?? 🙂

For my Russia packing list (pre-UPL), I listed out all the items and then listed what was going in my suitcase, what in my backpack and then finally, what I was wearing! 😀

Great job for your trip to Russia Julie! That’s right, no extra clothes for travel – they are included in the ten items. However, ten is a good number to use as a guideline but it’s okay to go up or down a few items, too 😉

Hi, this is so helpful for me so I do not forget anything. The older I get and the more I travel, forgetting something seems to happen far too often. But not any longer!

Glad you like it Gayle!

I have been using these packing lists this Spring and Summer and they have totally changed the way I plan and pack for a trip! I love being able to customize it. The main thing this did was make me think about WHERE I wanted to put everything. I then also added a little “how many times I wore it/used it” column so I could analyze at the end as well and start planning for the next trip. Thank you so much for these organizers!

Wow that’s a great idea, good job Nadja!

So excited to use this packing list for my three big trips next year: mediterranean cruise, Machu Picchu and Cairo/Nile Cruise/Jordan!!

AMAZING destinations!

Great packing list post, we just spent 4 weeks in Alaska and now we are off to FiJi. Your packing list is a huge help.

That’s awesome David, thanks!

Great post! This is very helpful for people who need help on what to pack!

Thanks Valerie!

Please email completed packing lists! Thank you

Hi Isabelle, they are on the way towards your inbox right now!

Thank you for making this packing list editable! I’m particularly loving the “How to Pack It” column, which is missing on so many other lists. It really helps me figure out which packing cubes/organizers to use, how to place it in my bag and also to mentally include clothing I’ll wear while traveling.

Thanks Megan! Glad you liked the “How to Pack It” column 🙂

Excellent packing list!! This will be very useful for me!

Thanks Helene!

Thanks Helene! Glad you’ve found it helpful 🙂

Right now I am packing for my trip to Italy and I am using only your list. It is amazing. For the first time I feel that I do not overpack, that I have everything what I really need, and that I won’t forget any stuff. Your blog has changed completety the way I pack. Thank you 🙂 xoxoxo

Yay! That’s great to hear, thank you Justine!

Great post! One question: Do the clothing lists include items you’re wearing, or just what’s in your bag? Also, I always bring dental floss; in addition to keeping my gums healthy, it’s awesome for sewing!

They include all clothes including what you wear on a flight 😉 Dental floss is a good add!

Perfect timing for my trip to Europe next month. Thanks!

Glad you like it Kim!

Wonderful, detailed list. I recommend your site to anyone asking about travel and packing light. Especially friends who want to travel and still look fashionable!

Thank you Kim 🙂

This is so comprehensive! I plan on referencing this next time I travel. Thank you for the breakdown.

Yay! Glad you like it Heather 🙂

I am going to Italy in October and I am so excited to find this blog at travelfashiongirl.com. I have been stressing about what to pack. Now, I have a detailed list to follow and I couldn’t be more happy! Thank you TFG!

Love it! You thought of everything! Will use this on my next trip (instead of recreating a new list which I seem to always do). Thanks!

Yay!!!! Glad you like it ?

Love having all of this info in one post! Thanks for the tips!

While I enjoy all your posts, this one is SERIOUSLY the best I’ve seen on your site – or any site, for that matter! Thanks so much for gathering this all together for your readers. You’ve thought of everything!!!

Ah-maz-ing! Just what I needed!!!

There’s a lot of different types of products that need to be stored during travel, but finding those emergency items is what’s important when you’re out there all prepared! These print-out lists are exactly what I’ve been using for myself since high school, & for nostalgia sake, that original template I put together & taped over to “laminate” it, is still there slipped behind the zippered space in my overall bathroom bag. Thanks for sharing your process! It seems like a lot of work that many individuals have appreciated finding!!

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Table of contents

Ultimate Backpacking Checklist & Gear Essentials

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

We’ve spent decades honing our backpacking gear to (our) perfect balance of weight and creature comforts. After 20,000 miles and 1,000 nights on trail, we’re pretty dialed in to what we want and need for any adventure, and we love helping people find their perfect kit as well.

We’ve organized the Ultimate Backpacking Checklist into categories to make it easier for you to gather your backpacking gear for your next trip. We also have adownloadable checklist. Print it out and have a hard copy with you as you organize your gear.

Ultimate Backpacking Checklist

DOWNLOAD OUR PRINTABLE CHECKLIST

*We consider items in italics to be optional

• Tent poles or trekking poles
• Groundsheet for tent floor durability

BACKPACK & STORAGE

• Trash compactor bag or waterproof stuff sacks for interior rain protection
• Large Ziploc for garbage
• Shoulder strap camera pocket
• Summit pack

ENTERTAINMENT

• Book or Kindle
• Crossword puzzles
• Cribbage or dice
• Notebook + pen

NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT

Always be prepared and know how to use your map and compass, even if you plan to use a GPS or GPS app.

• Topo map(s)
• Waterproof map bag / Ziploc
• GPS or GPS phone app with maps downloaded for offline use
• Satellite Messenger/PLB for remote locations
• Download driving directions for offline use
• Photos of guidebook pages
• Check current weather before trip
• Call ranger station pre-trip for trail conditions + regulations
• 2 copies of itinerary: 1 left with friend + 1 under car seat
• Backpacking permits
• Band-aids of various sizes
• Antibiotic ointment
• Medical tape
• Latex gloves
• Safety pins
• Antihistamines
• Antidiarrheal
• Check out our Best First Aid Kits list for more suggestions

PERSONAL TOILETRIES

• Sunscreen + lip balm
• Bug repellant
• Toiletries (biodegradable shampoo, etc.)
• Prescription Rx
• OTC meds + vitamins
• Contact lenses + supplies/glasses
• Toilet paper/wipes + sealable bag to pack it out
• Digging trowel
• Menstrual products
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush, paste + floss
• Earplugs + eye mask
• Nail clipper
• Pre-trip: Clip nails, cut hair, shave, etc.
• Provisions – commonly between 2,500-3,500 calories per day
• Extra day’s supply of food for emergencies
• Food bag / Ursack
• 50’ nylon cord + small carabiner for bear bag hanging or bear canister where required

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR SNOWY & ICY TRIPS

• Ice axe – learn + practice proper self-arrest technique
• Traction devices

SLEEP SYSTEM

• Sleeping bag / backpacking quilt
• Pad attachment straps (optional)
• Sleeping pad
• Pump sack (optional)

TOOLS & ACCESSORIES

• Trekking poles
• Lightweight hammock
• Backpacking chair / sit pad
• Light pocket knife or multitool
• Phone (turn on low power/airplane mode)
• Waterproof phone case
• Bear spray for grizzly country
• Camera + waterproof case/Ziploc
• Extra camera battery
• Headlamp (check batteries pre-trip)
• Extra batteries for long trips
• Power bank + charging cords
• Wall plug for thru-hikes
• Assorted Ziploc bags
• Cash, ID, credit card, insurance card

EMERGENCY KIT

• Duct / Tenacious Tape for repairs
• Sleeping pad patch kit
• Needle + thread
• Small Sharpie
• Stormproof matches + small fire starters
• Small backup lighter
• Backup water treatment pills ( Chlorine Dioxide )
• 2-4 water bottles (ability to carry 2-6 liters depending on climate) or a hydration pack & bladder
• Collapsible water containers for carrying lots of water in dry locations
• Water treatment
• Pre-filter for water treatment, ex: pantyhose

All clothing items should be lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying (synthetic or wool, no cotton).

• Hiking pants ( Men’s / Women’s ) & shorts ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Wicking shirt/tank & long-sleeve sun shirt ( Men’s / Women’s )
• 1-2 pairs quick-dry underwear
• Down jacket and/or fleece jacket
• Rain jacket
• Rain pants for wet trips
• Windbreaker depending on forecast
• Base layers
• 2-4 Pair socks

PACK IN CAR

• Parking pass for car
• Clean clothes + shoes to change into
• Gallon of water for trailhead shower
• Camp towel to dry off
• Water + snacks

Backpacking Tips

LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD – Start by weeding out things you don’t need. Be careful with every choice you make, a few ounces here and there can add a lot of weight in the end. A lightweight backpacking checklist, like the one here, will help you to focus on essential items. Next, focus on lightening your heaviest gear: shelter, backpack, and sleeping bag. Switching your traditional big three out for lightweight options is the best opportunity for weight savings, especially when you’re starting out. If you invest in a lightweight shelter, backpack, and sleeping bag, you can easily cut 10 or more pounds and be well on your way to having an ultralight backpacking setup.

CLOTHING FOR BACKPACKING – The clothing you pack will change slightly depending on the conditions you expect to encounter on specific trips, but the fundamentals remain the same. Clothing made with quick-drying fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin are best to help your body thermoregulate and stay comfortable in both hot and cold environments. Nylon, polyester, wool, bamboo, silk, and synthetic blends are all good options. Avoid cotton – it absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry, which can cause a variety of problems including blisters and chafing. Choose items that can be worn together in layers. Fleece and goose-down have the best warmth-to-weight ratio and make the best insulation materials for backpackers. Rain gear should be lightweight, breathable, and waterproof.

BACKPACKING FOOD – Good food is really important for any backpacking trip, so it’s well worth the effort to put together a simple meal plan before your trip. Keeping food weight down is a critical backpacking skill that usually takes experience to master. A good place to start is our Guide to Lightweight Backpacking Food . Most seasoned backpackers opt for lightweight, calorically-dense foods that are very easy to prepare. Packaged freeze-dried meals and snack foods can be great, but keep in mind, they tend to be very high in sodium/sugar, which can take their toll, if eaten in excess.

Another approach is to prepare your own backpacking meals , using a food dehydrator to dry meats, fruits, veggies, and sauces. Combining them with spices and quick-cooking or easily rehydrated dried goods such as pasta, couscous, instant potatoes, instant refried beans, and minute rice is a great way to customize your own highly-nutritious meals. This method takes more time and effort, and you must be more willing to carry more weight, but making your meals can be more cost-effective and healthier for long trips. Our approach is usually a mix of both methods. For more specifics about food, check out our Best Lightweight Backpacking Food guide , where we outline our general backpacking food strategy and suggest some of our favorite meals .

CleverHiker Backpacking Video Series

If you’re new to backpacking, or have been hiking with outdated equipment, we highly recommend watching our two professionally-filmed video series (below), where we’ll teach you everything you need to know to start backpacking -the skills and the gear.

• Essential Trail Skills – 20 HD tutorial videos to teach the most critical skills for backpackers of all levels, such as: Leave No Trace, Backpacking Trip Planning, How to Find and Fit the Right Backpack, How to Pack a Lightweight Backpack, and much more.
• Lightweight Backpacking Basics – One of the main reasons to minimize your pack weight is to maximum your freedom on the trail. Backpacking with a lighter pack will reduce stress on your body, give you more free time on the trail, and allow you to hike farther with less effort. In this 10-episode series, you’ll learn all about the gear that will allow you to hike lighter to make the hiking the most enjoyable part of your trip.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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Table of Contents

Packing for a trip is one of the most important preparation steps. A minimalist approach to packing will make you more comfortable and more flexible. By keeping things carry-on size, you can even save a lot of money by avoiding extra check-in fees.

If you are planning to start your first trip, you might end up hauling 30 kg worth of belongings in a huge backpack. Everyone does this same mistake on their first few trips. They sweat, they curse, and finally swear they’ll never pack so much again. 

This packing list has been revised and optimized for minimalism while making sure you will have everything you need for your trip. 

Join our subscriber list to receive the best tips on solo travel, helpful travel guides, inspirational travel stories, and more. You can unsubscribe anytime with just one click.

Best Packing Tips  

Keep Your Pack light. Long term travel is all about packing light but making sure you have all the essentials to make travel as easy as possible. Whether you’re camping or hiking, traveling to Asia or Europe on a budget, you just need to travel as light as possible. 

Simple rules for minimalist travel:

1- Pack the must-haves, not the nice-to-haves

You might end up packing more things just because ‘more stuff’ feels somehow comforting and safe. But, many first-time travelers wish they’d packed half as much. So, think long and hard about every item, then eliminate anything you don’t absolutely need.  

2- Carry fewer clothes

It’s much easier to do laundry than to carry weeks worth of clothing. So, you don’t need to carry too many clothes. 

3- Bring versatile instead of special-case items  

Focus on items that will be useful to you all the time or have multiple uses. Keep in mind you can often rent gear locally, or find a cheap temporary fix instead of carrying something for one-time use.

If you forget something, there are shops all over the world and you can buy it there.

4- Don’t pack at the last moment  

Pack the day before your trip starts. If you’re in a hurry, you might stress out and stuff your bag too full.  

5- Try to keep a quarter of your bag empty  

Loading unloading would be so easier and you can use that free space for storing gifts and souvenirs.  

Backpacking Necessities - Essential Backpacking Items 

Your passport, wallet, and your phone . These are the most important things you have while you’re traveling. Here are some other essential items for any backpacking trip. 

1. A Backpack

You can’t be a backpacker without a backpack! This is the first important item on this backpacking packing list. 

It’s better to go for a lightweight and versatile pack (and possibly carry-on size). It’ll be more comfortable to carry. There are other few features worth keeping an eye on: 

Front loading . Many backpacks are top-loading, with a drawstring to close it at the top. It means having to dig around awkwardly to get something from the bottom. Instead, bags with a clamshell design are much nicer: you just zip them open face down, with everything within instant reach.  

Waist Strap . Do you want to avoid sore shoulders and bad backs? Using a waist strap distributes the load around your whole body instead of just your shoulders and it’s essential for avoiding sore shoulders and bad backs. 

Laptop compartment . A separate padded compartment keeps your laptop secure. You can also use these zipped compartments for books, travel journals, or many other things. 

Rain resistant . You don’t want the water to leak into your bag, right? So, you should always look at whether it’s weather-sealed or includes a rain cover. 

Lockable zippers . O-rings that let you attach a padlock or wire lock to prevent opportunistic theft. 

Internal or external compression straps . This will help you pack more and organize better. 

Good carry handles. It’s important when you’re not wearing the pack on your back. 

The Best Travel Backpacks

Osprey Farpoint 40 

Ideal for backpacking & staying in hostels. 

Only basic features, but it's light and inexpensive. 

Osprey Porter 46

A popular bag that’s sturdier and better organized than the Osprey Farpoint. 

But, exceeds carry on size limit, and the straps are not as comfortable. 

Osprey Farpoint 55 trek

Like a premium version of the original Farpoint

More space, adjustable suspension system, comfortable trampoline-style back & integrated rain cover

Ideal for long term travel. 

Tortuga Setout 

Best all-purpose budget backpack.

Great quality + value

Excellent organizer compartments

Peak Design 45L Backpack

Amazingly clever design filled with surprising features

35L but expands to 45L

Best premium travel backpack if the price is no concern. 

AER Capsule Pack

Great for city travel & one-bag travelers

Minimalist design with a large main compartment

A really solid carry-on that I like a lot 

Backpack sizes are typically expressed in liters (i.e., the volume they can contain). Here are some of the common sizes: 

15-30L . Too small unless you’re going on a weekend trip, or you’re super minimalist. This size is usually for day-packs or commuter bags.

35-45L . Perfect for shorter trips but equally for trips lasting many weeks or months (if you know how to pack light). Ideal for traveling within one climate and don’t need to pack for every type of weather. This size is usually accepted as carry-on luggage, saving you time and check-in fees when flying. 

50-65L. Good if you need extra space. Not everyone is a light packer so some will prefer these sizes despite the extra weight.

70-120L . Only for trekking and camping expeditions. The internal support frames often already weigh several kilos. This is overkill for most travelers. But if you need to store a tent and other gear, this might be the size for you. 

Carry-ons (around 40 liters) are often the best backpacks for traveling —  if you’re staying in hostels and don’t need to bring any bulky gear. You’ll end up with less weight on your back and more freedom of movement. 

2. A Good Day Pack 

Usually, you’ll have your day pack with you while your backpack is in the hostel. 

Daypacks are essential for urban and remote adventures. You can easily pack everything you need including your water bottle, snacks, layers, and anything you might purchase while exploring a new city!

3. A Micro-fiber Towel 

A proper travel towel is an essential thing to have for your trip. You don’t get towels in most backpacker hostels and you can’t take your hotel’s bath towel with you. 

Regular towels are heavy and take up a ton of space. You can use micro-fiber dry towels. Micro-fiber towels take almost no space, are lightweight, and dry easily so that they won’t get moldy and start smelling. 

4. Travel Security Money Belt

Nobody will know you have money on you! It has a hidden inner pocket in which you can hide your cash. 

Traveling with a money belt is a small investment that helps keep your money safe. 

Check out The 9 Best Travel Money Belts of 2020 . 

5. Combination Padlocks

Carry small combination padlocks to lock backpacks or hostel lockers. 

Padlocks are important for a few reasons. 

First, padlocks are essential when you stay in hostels. Most hostels provide some sort of lockers, but not all of them provide locks for those lockers. 

Second, connect the lock between two zippers and make your bag safe from thieves. 

If you frequently lose your room keys when staying in hostels, you can use a padlock to lock your room. 

6. International Travel Power Adapter 

Carry a universal travel adapter with two USB ports. This means you never have to worry about all the different electrical sockets used around the world. You can charge your laptop and two other electrical devices via USB at the same time.  

7. Swiss Army Knife

One of the most valuable travel tools is a swiss knife . This will be needed to open cans and cut stuff. 

Remember to put it in your check-in luggage before flights. 

8. A Backpacking Toiletry Bag

To keep all your toiletries and meds in one place, you need a backpacking toiletry bag . It will be extremely helpful when you use a shared bathroom. 

9. A Laundry Bag  

Having a laundry bag helps out so much if you want to separate your dirty clothes from the rest. 

10. An LED Headlamp

A headlamp comes in handy when you have to find your way through a dorm room at night when there’s a power cut (not unusual in developing countries), or when you’re hiking at night or going on a caving adventure. A regular torch works too, but having a light strapped on your head keeps your hands free.

Backpacking Packing List - Electronics Checklist   

1. A Laptop  

If you work on the road or take online classes, good quality, light, and a fast laptop is an essential item for you. But if you don’t, then an iPad or a tablet would be fine for watching movies, staying in contact with others, and reading books. 

2. Camera  

If you love photography, you can bring a bigger camera with an interchangeable lens system. The most lightweight option is obviously to use a compact camera or a smartphone. 

But if you prefer a fully-featured camera, you can use a DSLR camera.

Check out this detailed post for a breakdown of the best travel cameras , if you’re really interested in travel photography. 

3. A Smartphone

If you have a smartphone with a good quality camera, you might not need a DSLR camera on your trip. It totally depends on how much you care about your photos. 

4. Power Bank

It is extremely important to keep your phone, Go-pro, or other electronic devices charged whilst exploring. 

5. Earphones

Carrying earphones with you is a must. 

Backpacking Packing List - Backpacking Clothes Checklist

The clothing you pack will change slightly depending on the conditions you expect to encounter on specific trips, but the fundamentals remain the same. 

Nylon, polyester, wool, bamboo, silk, and synthetic blends are all good options. Avoid cotton , it absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry, which can cause a variety of problems including blisters and chafing.

Choose items that can be worn together in layers. The key to packing light and keeping warm in colder temperatures is layering instead of using bulky winter clothes. 

Rain gear should be lightweight, breathable, and waterproof. 

Clothes for Hiking

Hiking or trail-running shoes

Synthetic or wool T-shirt

Hiking or running shorts (1 pair)

Jeans (optional)

Hiking pants (1 pair)

Synthetic or wool underwear (2 pairs)

Synthetic or wool socks (2 pairs)

Sun-protective hat

Sun-protective gloves (opt.)

A set of swimming gear

Clothes for Camping

Long-underwear top

Long-underwear bottoms

Wool or synthetic socks for sleep

Puffy insulated jacket or vest

Sandals (opt.)

For Bad Weather

Waterproof rain jacket

Waterproof rain pants

Warm gloves

Waterproof gloves/mitts

Essential Gear List - Adventure, Camping and Hiking Gear Checklist   

If you camp, hike or dive a lot, you know you’ll need to carry more gear. This gear checklist has got you covered on everything you’ll need for your epic hiking or backpacking trip.

A backpacking tent 

Tent pole 

Stakes 

Groundsheet for tent floor durability (optional) 

Sleep System 

A sleeping bag 

A sleeping pad 

Pillow or stuff sack 

Pocket Blanket 

Camp Kitchen

Stove + fuel 

Small lighter

Spoon 

Cup or mug (optional) 

Biodegradable soap (optional) 

Spice kit (optional)

Tools & Accessories

Headlamp + extra batteries 

Lightweight hammock (optional) 

Mosquito net

Trekking pole (optional) 

Lightweight pocket knife or multi-tool 

Umbrella (optional) 

Bear spray (optional - only for the grizzly country)

Lip balm 

Pen and notebook

Navigation System  

A cellphone (opt.)

Solar/portable charger (opt.)

GPS with maps downloaded 

Personal locator beacon (opt.)

Route description

Backpacking Permits

Emergency Kit

Duct/Tenacious Tape (for repairs)

Sleeping pad patch kit

Superglue (optional)

Needle + thread (optional)

Small Sharpie (optional)

Stormproof matches + small fire starters

Small backup lighter

Backup water treatment pills (Chlorine Dioxide)

Food Storage  

Stuff sack for hanging (opt.)

Bear bag/bear canister (if required)

Hydration   

2-4 water bottles (ability to carry 2-6 liters depending on the climate) or a Hydration reservoir 

Water treatment (filter, UV purifier, etc.)

Pre-filter for water treatment, ex: pantyhose (optional)

Collapsible water containers (optional, for carrying lots of water in dry locations)

Backpacking Packing List - Toiletries Packing List 

Bring only as much as you anticipate needing.

Hand sanitizer

Toilet paper/wipes + sealable bag (to pack it out)

Digging Trowel

Menstrual products

Toothbrush + paste

Prescription Rx

Contact lenses + supplies/glasses

Lotion (optional)

Bug repellant

Eye drops (optional)

Small comb (optional)

Hair ties (optional)

Nail clipper (optional)

Backpacking Packing List - First Aid Packing   

Pack a first aid kit designed for where you are going. 

Thermometer . If you have a fever.

Bandages and gauze . For cleaning and covering wounds. Blisters and small cuts will be your main enemy.

Antihistamines . Used to relieve or prevent the symptoms of hay fever and other types of allergy.

Mosquito repellent . It can be an effective way to repel mosquitoes and prevent bites. 

Personal medicines such as inhalers

Paracetamol and aspirin . For mild or moderate pain.

Malaria pills ; if necessary

OTC meds. + vitamins

Backpacking Packing List - Document Checklist

Flight, train, and bus tickets

Valid Passport

A laminated copy of your passport

Driver’s license

Student ID; valid

Debit Cards x 2

Credit Card

Dollars or Euros

Some, one-dollar bills for tips; depending on the country

half a dozen passport photos for visas on arrival (you normally need two per visa).

Packing light will give you a lot of benefits, but not everyone will want to travel in the same way. If you feel a larger bag and more options are better, you should go for it.  If you’re going on a flashy holiday and you want to wear something fancy every evening or at the party, it’ll be more difficult to be truly minimalist.

I hope this post has been helpful. Just make sure you give it a good test run before your trip and avoid packing at the last minute. 

Happy travels.

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Backpacking Checklist for 2023

We cover everything you need for a successful backpacking trip, from essentials like shelter and insulation to extras like matches and sunscreen.

Switchback Travel

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a seasoned veteran, everyone could use a good list to make sure they’re prepared when they head out on the trail. Our detailed checklist below covers everything from critical backpacking equipment (tent, pack, sleeping bag, etc.) to kitchen gear , footwear and clothing , health and hygiene products , and personal items and extras . For more information on each product category, many of the headings link to our detailed product round-ups, which are the result of years of testing and opinions (we do love backpacking). And for all our product recommendations in one place, see the landing page for our backpacking gear reviews .

Editor's note: The table above provides a brief overview of what you'll need to get outside, but our full PDF version is printable and offers a more comprehensive breakdown of the necessities and nice-to-haves. See Our Backpacking Checklist PDF

Backpacking Equipment

Backpacking Tent

Our top pick: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 ($550)  What we like: Highly competitive combination of weight, livability, and ease of use. What we don’t: Expensive; thin floor is susceptible to tears (we advise using a footprint).

Backpacking Pack

Our top pick: Osprey Atmos AG 65 ($340)  What we like: Great carrying comfort, thoughtful organization, and class-leading breathability. What we don’t: On the pricey end and far from the lightest design available. 

Sleeping Bag

Our top pick: Feathered Friends Hummingbird YF 20 ($509) What we like: Very warm for the weight and built by a very reputable down specialist. What we don’t: Feathered Friends bags don’t come cheap; lacking some modern features.

Sleeping Pad

Our top pick: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT ($210) What we like: Three-season warmth and great comfort at a competitively low weight. What we don’t: Warm-weather backpackers can save with a lower R-value pad.

Water Filter or Purifier

Our top pick: Sawyer Squeeze ($41) What we like: Impressively light, fast flow rate, and covered by Sawyer’s lifetime warranty. What we don’t: Best for the solo backpacker—groups will likely prefer a larger gravity filter like the Platypus GravityWorks 4L.

Hydration Bladder and/or Water Bottles

Our top pick: Osprey Hydraulics 3L ($37) What we like: Highly reliable and built to last. What we don’t: Rigid backer adds weight and bulk (you can’t roll it up when empty).

Our top pick: Petzl Actik Core ($80) What we like: Great output, long battery life (via AAAs or the rechargeable battery), and easy-to-use interface in a feathery build. What we don't: Expensive and not the most water-resistant option on the market.

Optional Backpacking Equipment

• Trekking poles
• Backpacking chair/sit pad
• Backpacking pillow
• Sleeping bag liner
• Tent footprint/ground cloth
• Extra stakes and guylines

Kitchen Gear

Backpacking Stove and Fuel

Our top pick: MSR PocketRocket 2 ($60) What we like: Surprisingly powerful for how light and cheap it is. What we don’t: Noticeably less stable and wind-resistant than integrated canister systems like the Jetboil Flash.

• Backpacking Food

Our top pick: Backpacker's Pantry ($10-$13) What we like: Affordably priced, easy to find, and extensive selection of tasty meals. What we don’t: Relatively long cook times and less innovative than some upstarts.

Cookware and Utensils

• Spork or long spoon

Optional Food Items

• Instant coffee
• Coffee press or dripper
• Electrolyte tablets

Footwear and Clothing

Hiking Boots or Hiking Shoes

Our top pick: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($175) What we like: Trail runner-like agility with hiking boot protection and stability. What we don’t: Those shuttling serious weight might want to step up to a more cushioned and supportive design like Salomon’s own Quest 4.

• Hiking Socks

Our top pick: Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion ($21) What we like: Great padding and breathability for three-season use; backed by Darn Tough’s lifetime warranty. What we don’t: A bit too thick for sweltering summer days; highly durable build sacrifices a little plushness. 

Hiking Pants or Hiking Shorts

Our top pick: Outdoor Research Ferrosi ($99) What we like: Ferrosi fabric nicely balances weight, durability, and mobility. What we don’t: No built-in belt; not the most everyday-friendly option due to the thin construction and basic pocket layout.

Rain Jacket or Hardshell Jacket

Our top pick: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($179) What we like: Confidence-inspiring protection and classy looks at a hard-to-beat price. What we don’t : Fairly crinkly and stiff; doesn’t have a chest pocket.

Down Jacket or Synthetic Jacket

Our top pick: Patagonia Down Sweater ($279) What we like: Comfortable fabrics, competitive warmth for the weight, and highly versatile. What we don’t: Not the lightest option for dedicated backcountry use.

Our top pick: Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 1/4 Zip ($115) What we like: All-merino build is warm and comfortable, regulates temperature well, and doesn’t hold stink like polyester. What we don’t: Pricey, too warm for high-output use, and requires more care to last than synthetics.

Optional Footwear and Clothing

• Sun protection shirt
• Gaiters (for snow or water crossings)
• Neck gaiter/buff

Health and Hygiene

• Toilet paper and/or baby wipes
• Wag bags or trowel (check local regulations)
• Hand sanitizer
• Personal medications
• First aid kit

Sun and Bug Protection

• Insect repellent

Optional Health and Hygiene Items

• Mosquito net

Personal Items and Extras

• Basic repair kit (multi-tool, duct tape, extra cord)
• Navigation (map, GPS, compass)
• Cell phone with charger
• Extra batteries and/or solar charger
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Book or Kindle
• Bear canister and/or bear spray (if required)
• Ziploc bags (for trash and waterproofing electronics)
• Lighter and/or waterproof matches
• Backup water purification tablets
• Pack rain cover (if not included)
• Quick-drying towel
• ID, cards, and cash
• Backcountry permit or reservation (if required)
• Forest Service/park pass (if required)
• Satellite messenger device

Additional Backpacking Tips

• Check restrictions before you go to ensure you're up to date on current fire bans, required bear-proofing measures (such as bear canisters or bear bags for food), etc. 
• A balanced and organized load is key for maintaining comfort on the trail. It’s best to place heaviest gear in the middle of your back and pack in a way that allows you to access certain items easily on the go. For a detailed breakdown, see our article on How to Pack a Backpack .
• Use resealable bags for toiletries and other small items you don’t want to lose or get wet, such as lighters and matches.
• If you’re limited on space, consider using dedicated compression sacks for soft gear like your sleeping bag, clothing, etc.
• Research your route ahead of time to verify where you’ll encounter water sources for fill-ups. If they’re plentiful, you may be able to get away with carrying in less water.
• We recommend a 10-degree buffer for your sleeping bag. For example, if your bag is rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, expect to be comfortable down to around freezing.
• Pack foods that you know you’ll enjoy eating and remember to drink water often. It’s common to not feel hungry or thirsty after heavy exertion, but refueling properly is key to maintaining energy and feeling good on the trail. 
• Always bring backup water purification in case your filter fails. Iodine tablets are a cheap and easy way to ensure you’ll have clean drinking water, and adding electrolyte tablets will help eliminate any aftertaste. 
• Be sure to share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member before heading out, including your expected route and arrival/departure dates.

Where to Buy Backpacking Gear

Perhaps our Seattle roots makes us biased, but we do much of our gear shopping at REI Co-op . The selection is excellent, the return policy is generous (make sure not to abuse it if you want it to continue), the staff generally are knowledgeable and helpful, and you get the brick-and-mortar bonus. A good option for online shopping is Backcountry.com , which has free standard shipping on orders over $50 and solid selection overall (we use Backcountry more for winter purchases but it does well in the hiking/camping world as well). For cheaper items and those who need gear quickly, it’s hard to beat Amazon.com and the sheer volume of sellers and product options. Last but not least, we always support buying gear at your local shop. It’s a great way to support the community, get real information about your trip, and be able to try things on in person. Back to Our Backpacking Checklist   See Our Backpacking Gear Reviews

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THE Ultimate Backpacking Checklist

Photo by @kaylinb1231

The following backpacking checklist pinpoints all the things you need to think about before and after your trip, as well as essential gear items to have in your pack. We start off with the list and continue with a description of each individual item. If you want to download the list a PDF, click here.

Backpacking Checklist

Click here to download this backpacking checklist as a PDF.

Trip Planning and Preparation

Sleep system, first aid kit, accessories, optional extras, once you're back, before you head out, 📅 figure out the logistics.

First, pick the hike you want to do and the direction you want to go, the season and month you’re beginning your hike in may influence this decision. Then, check trail conditions and do some research into the parking and logistics of getting to the trailhead ahead of time.

How are the roads? Are there any current closures? Are there shuttles in the area? What's the parking situation like? Can you park your car overnight, and what passes and permits are required for the area?

Since you might lose cell reception on the drive to the trailhead, it’s also not a bad idea to have a print-out of the directions and a map of the area.

Our free trail guides contain all the information you need to know.

⛈️ Check the Weather Forecast

Temperatures won’t be the same at ground level vs. 3,000 ft. up a mountain. Even in the desert , temperatures can range reaching into the 100’s during the day and down below freezing at night, which means you’ll need a variety of clothing for your hike.

Moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics are a good place to start and packing extra socks, liners and layers are valuable to change into for avoiding hypothermia in wet or sweaty conditions.

Checking weather predictions and average yearly temps ahead of time will give you some ideas into what to expect, and from there you can zero in on footwear and any extras you’ll need (sunglasses, sunblock, gaiters, etc.) by looking into the climate and terrain of where you’ll be hiking.

📞 Alert an Emergency Contact

Whether going on a day hike, an overnight backpacking trip or beginning the first leg of a thru-hike, informing someone about your plans ahead of time is always a good strategy. Nature can throw some curveballs your way, and in case you do get injured, lost, or don’t return on the day you originally planned for, it’s reassuring to know there’ll be someone to send out the search parties.

Here are three things you should share with a family/friend prior to beginning your hike:  

• A detailed trip plan
• A map with the exact location of where you’ll be hiking
• When you think you'll be back

To avoid having search parties sent out looking for you, be sure to let your family, loved ones or whoever you designated to be your contact person know that you’ve made it home safe and sound following your trip.

Hiking Hack: Cairn App is a great new real-life tracking app that allows you to select a “safety circle” you can share your hiking progress and location with in case of an emergency. It also automatically alerts your circle in case you’re overdue from your trip.

🚰 Map Out Water Sources

One of the most important things to locate on a trail is available water sources, especially if you're hiking in dry desert climates where water is especially sparse.

Knowing how many miles lie between water stations will help you determine how much water you’ll need to carry on you between re-fills. It’s also important to consider your water purification system , whether that be drops, a filter, boiling, etc.

📦 Plan Your Resupplies

Food resupply can either take a little or a lot of planning, depending on how you go about it. Since you only have so much room available for food at a time, you’ll need to come up with a system for restocking your food supply along the way. Whether you stick with one method or combine a few, here are some of the most popular food resupply options:

• Buy food at towns, gas stations and resupply points along the trail.
• Set-up a “bounce box” where you take what you need and put the rest back in the box and keep mailing it ahead from point to point.
• Have food boxes arranged ahead of time to get shipped and held at post offices.
• Have someone drop food off at certain locations for you to pick up.
• Rely on hiker boxes and eat whatever’s available (not necessarily the most reliable plan.)
• “Cache” your food: stash food at certain points along the trail ahead of time for pickup.

🤝 Distribute Your Gear

If you’re hiking with a few mates, then why not disperse the weight? Chances are there are a few heavy items you’ll all want to use, and hiking is definitely the time to adopt the sharing is caring mentality. Plan ahead with your group on who’s bringing what.

You can even trade off on carrying things like the stove, the bulk of the water or food supply or any other items that could be mutually used among the group.

📝 Get Insurance (Optional)

Planning an exciting excursion abroad? Trip insurance could be one of the most important purchases you make prior to your backpacking trip. There are several different plans you can choose from, and it can be worth the peace of mind knowing you’re protected against accidentally racking up a whopping $50,000 medical bill overseas. Here’s a further look into why trip insurance may be right for you: The 5 Best Travel Insurances .

💲 Make a Budget (Optional)

Living in the great outdoors should be cheap, right? Not necessarily. Buying the proper gear, supplies, and food ahead of time can add up quickly, and if you’re planning to be gone for an extended period, you’ll also have bills back home to account for months in advance. Creating a budget can help lay out a plan and manage your finances. Some key things to consider when planning your budget include trip length, transportation and travel costs, bills, food, lodging, misc. expenses on the trail, your emergency cash stash and costs of buying gear.

Backpacking Essentials

Your backpack is one of your most important pieces of gear. Make sure to choose a pack that weighs less than 2 lbs, rests comfortably on your pack and is made of a breathable material like Dyneema or nylon. As for capacity, we recommend 40L to 65L, depending on the length and duration of your trip. And remember, the bigger the pack, the more stuff people tend to shove in it and the heavier their pack ends up being.

A liner helps protect your backpack and its content from the rain. If you don't own a liner, you can use a trash compactor bag instead. It is just a effective. 

Trail shelters, tents, tarps and hammocks all can work for shelter. However, depending on the environment you’ll be spending your nights in one option may certainly be preferable over the other. Bugs, weather, and terrain can influence shelter selection.

Relying on camp shelters can be hit or miss in availability.

Hammocks are great on saving weight—as long as you’ve got somewhere you can hang them.

Tarps can work, but the no walls thing can be a bummer.

For harsher climates ultralight tents can come in handy and are surprisingly durable, however, they can cost a pretty penny.

🛏️ Sleep System

Sleep systems consist of a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, a liner and a pillow (if you want one).

The sleeping pad is your comfort and protection from the ground. It’s advised to test it out ahead of time in a few different settings to ensure it's comfortable and has enough insulation. Sleeping pads come in a variety of lengths, thicknesses, and they can be inflatable or foam.

Sleeping bags should fall between 1-3 pounds. Depending on the environment and temperature range you’ll be in, you can choose between down or synthetic insulation, a summer, three-season or winter bag, and the style (mummy, quilt, rectangular, etc.).

Liners   are a good way to keep the inside of your sleeping bag clean and provide some extra insulation, although not indispensable.

Cooking equipment is all about ease and multi-purpose use. Take a spork, for example. The little utensil is light, practical, and gives the best of both worlds. On the note of utensils, plastic silverware can be tempting over steel or titanium because of its weight and cost, but it’s not durable.

You’ll also want to pack a good cutting knife, dishware (a steel cup or bowl should do) and plan on bringing something to boil water with like either a pot or jet boil with fuel .

Lastly, you can choose your clean up method: hot water and scrubbing or a biodegradable soap option .

🥑 Food and Water

As a rule of thumb, plan to carry 2 lbs of food for each day of hiking. For example, if your next resupply point is 5 days away, you should have about 10 lbs of food in your pack. A great way to optimize your food load is to stick with options that have a high calorie-per-ounce ratio. Here are some great candidates . 

As for water, it highly depends on how far water sources are from another. If water is abundant on the trail, you might get away with not carrying any water at all—simply drink at the source. If water sources are scarce however, you'll want to fill up one or two 1-L bottles and take those with you  on the trail. More on this topic  here .

👕 Clothes (Worn and Packed)

Climate and weather will be the biggest determinants here. This is also where layering comes in handy.

You want to pack at least one set of clothes for hiking and another set for camp (including shoes). Your hiking clothes are unavoidably going to get wet from either sweat or rain. So when you'll be done hiking for the day, you'll be glad to to have dry, warm clothes to change into.

Hiking in cold weather? You'll have to pack a few extra items to stay warm—down jacket, rain shell, wool beanie, gloves, etc.

📍 Navigation

There are many GPS, Satellite or downloadable app options to choose from for navigation. Many apps even allow you to pre-load trail maps on your phone so you can use them both on and offline.

But, how you plan your trail navigation is all about preference—and how linked into technology you want to be. If you do decide to go the tech route, it’s not a bad idea to have a backup navigation plan… just in case.

Having a compass , a map or a guidebook of the trail that marks campsites, water sources and other notable features can be a great resource.

Headlamps are the most popular lighting option since they allow hikers to go hands-free and are multipurpose (many have floodlights, red beams, distress signals, adjustable lighting). There are even rechargeable headlamps you can choose from.

But, there are still hikers out there that prefer the good old flashlight, lantern or tent light instead. Since lighting options come in all different shapes and sizes, some starting steps to help decide what’s right for you is to consider the desired light output level and time estimate (lumen count), beam distance, battery type, water-resistance rating and activity you’ll be using the light for.

🧼 Toiletries

Just because you’re hiking for days on end with no shower, doesn’t mean you need to forgo all of your personal hygiene rituals. Toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, washcloths and hand sanitizer can go a long way. Biodegradable wipes can also be great for a quick wipe-down when there’s no water around. Toilet paper is always an option too.

🚑 First Aid Kit

You never know what can happen on the trail. From cuts and blisters to fever, a complete first aid kit can take the worry out of your outdoor adventures. No need to overdo it though. A pair of tweezers, some gauze pads, antiseptic, band-aids and a handful of pain killers can go long way. To avoid excessive weight, repackage everything and stick to about a week's worth of supplies. If you find yourself running low, stock up at the next trail town.

🔥 Backpacking Accessories

Going hiking near a lake, or during the peak of mosquito season? Might want to bring along some bug spray . Does your hike lead into bear territory? Many parks require bear bags or canisters for overnight stays.

Ever heard how duck-tape can fix everything? It’s true, a roll can repair tears and rips and also be used as protection against an oncoming blister. A pocket knife or waterproof matches are a few other items you might want to consider packing.

☂️ Optional Extras

Depending on where you’ll be hiking, it may be valuable to pack gaiters, an ice ax, sunglasses, a sun hat, lip balm or a hiking umbrella . Some hikers even bring things like whistles, earplugs and trekking poles.

Then, there’s always the fun stuff you could bring along like a deck of cards, a journal to record your backpacking trip or a book for those evenings by the fire. What’s important to have on your thru-hike is up to you. Everyone’s experience is uniquely theirs, and after some time out on the trail you’ll pinpoint what extras you don’t want to go without.

✂️ Optimize Your Gear

Anything you can do to cut weight in your pack, do it! This could include re-packaging items, cutting off extra straps or tags on your pack or losing your toothbrush handle (who really needs that, anyway?) Whatever isn’t a necessity should get the boot, and there are tons of ways you can do this. Ultralight packing and living with the bare minimum is key here. Your back and legs will thank you.

After Your Trip

🧺 wash and store your gear.

You made it! You accomplished your trip and have had the experience of a lifetime. Congrats! Now before you start celebrating there are a few things you need to do first—like properly clean, dry out and store all your backpacking gear.

When washing clothes, shoes, sleeping bag, tent, jackets, etc. stick with specifically formulated washes rather than regular detergents, and always make sure you store your supplies when they’re fully dry.

Products like Nikwax (a DWR re-waterproofing agent) and Active Wash (a wash that removes odors) work well on a variety of items. Cleaning your gear will help it last and it also gives you a good opportunity to go through and inspect it for repairs (busted seams, tears, etc.)

📖 Record Your Memories

Like anything in life, practice will make you better at it. Backpacking is the same way. After a few trips, you’ll take note of the things you can and cannot go without. After each backpacking trip, take a moment to go back to your original packing list and make notes. Add things that were vital to you and cross out others you didn’t need, and do this while the experience is still fresh in your mind so you’ll already be setting yourself up for success next time around.

About Katie Licavoli

About greenbelly.

After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Chris Cage created Greenbelly to provide fast, filling and balanced meals to backpackers. Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail .

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The Ultimate Backpacking Checklist

Heading out on your first overnight use this handy list as your guide to packing for a three-season backpacking trip..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

A backpacking trip can be the experience of a lifetime—as long as you’re properly equipped. Using a backpacking checklist is the best way to take stock of your kit before heading out. Our handy list covers the essentials for anything from an overnight to a week out in the wilderness. This list is meant for three-season backpacking only—you’ll need additional or different gear for special situations, like snow camping, desert camping, or thru-hiking. Time to get packing! For a printable PDF checklist, click here . Taking a shorter trip? Our  dayhiking checklist  has you covered.

• Typically a 50- to 80-liter backpack
• Rain cover or waterproof pack liner
• Waterproof compression sacks or storage sacks (optional)

For three-season backpacking trips that take a weekend or longer to complete, you should carry a pack between 50 and 80 liters in size. If you’re simply doing an overnight trip or have an ultralight kit, you can make do with a smaller pack. There are many considerations when choosing a backpack, including carrying capacity, features like sleeping bag compartments and ice axe fasteners, pockets, materials, and overall fit. Read more about properly choosing and packing a backpack here .

• Tent , tarp, or hammock
• Trekking poles (optional, can be used to pitch certain shelters)
• Groundsheet (optional)

Tents are the most beginner-friendly option, and offer the best combination of livable space and protection. Hammocks can be a comfortable choice in warmer weather below tree line but may require extra time for setup and tree selection, along with extra equipment like a tarp to protect against rain or an underquilt to guard against cold. By themselves, tarps are a weight and space-saving option, but lack protection against bugs and take time and consideration to pitch correctly. Make sure to take stock of every pole and stake before setting off. Read more about choosing the right tent here. 

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag or quilt (15°F to 30°F comfort rating)
• Sleeping pad (foam, self-inflating, or inflatable with an R-value of 2 or higher)
• Camping pillow (optional)

Traditional mummy bags offer a good warmth-to-weight ratio compared to rectangular sleeping bags while offering more coverage than quilts. Quilts can provide great weight-savings as long as you bring a beanie or detachable hood for warmth but can take some getting used to. All sleeping bags have temperature ratings, which indicate the range that the bag is designed to handle. In warmer climates, like parts of the American Southwest, you can get away with a higher comfort rating. Your bag is only as good as your pad, so make sure it has the appropriate insulating R-value for your lowest expected temperature. (Normally 2 to 5 R-value for three-season pads; 5 or above in winter). Read more about choosing a sleeping bag here . 

Water Storage and Filtration

• Water bottle and/or water reservoir
• Purification system (squeeze, pump, gravity, or press filter, or a UV purifier)
• Backup filtration system (chemical purification tabs, drops, or small secondary filter)

Every filter or purifier, regardless of style, will eventually clog up; always bring the tools required to clean your filter. If using a UV purifier, bring a mesh pre-filter for sediment if you expect anything but pure mountain water. If there’s a chance of freezing temperatures, place your filter in a leak-proof bag and stash it in your sleeping bag overnight—if it freezes it is no longer safe to use. Read about some of our favorite water filters here . 

Stove and Cookware

• Stove (canister, liquid fuel, or alternative style)
• Fuel (isobutane-propane canisters, liquid fuel, or alternative fuel)
• Lighter or waterproof matches
• Pots if not integrated into stove system
• Cleaning rag or mini sponge
• Mug (optional)
• Biodegradable soap (optional)

Canister stoves are great for quickly boiling water to rehydrate food, purify water, and make hot drinks. Choose a stove with a wider burner head and a non-integrated pot for easier backcountry cooking. Many backpackers opt for canisters for their ease of use, but liquid fuel stoves can be more efficient in cold temps and higher altitudes, and readily accept multiple types of fuel. Read about some of our favorite camp kitchen equipment here.

Food and Snacks

• Enough food for each day of your trip based on your caloric needs, plus an extra day’s worth of food in case of emergency
• Snacks to stave off hunger and increase your caloric intake while you hike
• Hydration/electrolyte powder or tabs (optional)
• Bear canister (if required), Ursack-type bag, or 50 feet of nylon cord and a carabiner for a hang if you’re in bear country

Deciding how much food to bring comes down to personal physiology, pace, and trail conditions, although 2,000 to 5,000 calories per day is a rough range for many people. Packing calorie-dense foods like nut butter, cheese, and olive oil will help you save weight. When in doubt, pack more food than you think you’ll need. 

• At least two pairs of socks
• At least two pairs of underwear
• Shorts, pants, or other bottoms such as a skirt or kilt
• Long-sleeve shirt (for insects and sun protection)
• Insulating midlayer, such as a fleece or light puffy
• Packable down jacket
• Hardshell jacket or rain poncho 
• Warm beanie
• Top and bottom baselayers (optional)
• Light gloves or liners (optional)
• Rain pants (optional)

The saying “cotton kills” is popular amongst hikers for a reason: the material holds on to moisture and doesn’t insulate when wet—the perfect recipe for hypothermia. Only wear wool or synthetic layers for the best temperature regulation. Baselayers and gloves can be lifesavers in cold or high-altitude climates but overkill in warm, low-elevation climates. Bring adequate rain gear even if precipitation isn’t in the forecast, and always stash at least two pairs of socks (wet feet mean a miserable trip). Read more about dialing in your layering system here.

• Hiking boots , hiking shoes, trail running shoes, or hiking sandals
• Camp shoes or sandals (optional)
• Gaiters for snow/scree (optional)

Choosing hiking footwear is one of the most subjective decisions a hiker can make—there are fits and options for every hiker and hiking style out there. For stability under heavy loads, rough terrain, and better durability, mid-cut or high-top boots are a safer choice. Trail running shoes will help you move faster (a pound on your feet equals five pounds on your back) and tend to breathe better. Depending on how much weight you’re carrying, lighter shoes can be more comfortable over long distances in general. Some backpackers prefer to hike in sandals for breathability, weight, and easy water crossings but must contend with the potential for cold feet and stubbed toes. Read more about how to choose the perfect footwear here. 

Personal Hygiene

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
• Bug repellent
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• WAG bag (if required)
• Menstrual products and pack-out bags (if not using a menstrual cup)
• Female urination device (optional)
• Pee rag (optional)

How you take care of business in the backcountry depends on the environment. The easiest scenario involves moving 200 feet from a water source, trail, or camping area, digging a six- to eight-inch deep hole, clearly marking your spot, and cleaning your hands thoroughly. In certain environments—such as deserts or tundra—or protected and popular parks, a WAG bag may be required. And remember: tampons are always a pack-out item. Read more about backcountry hygiene here.

Electronics

• Power bank and/or solar charger (optional) with charging cables
• Headlamp with extra set of lithium batteries
• Satellite messenger or personal locator beacon (optional)

Most hikers can get away with a small power bank to charge their phone and headlamp on a backpacking trip. On extended trips with no resupply, a solar charger is the best (albeit slow) solution. Remember to keep batteries (always lithium, never temperature-sensitive alkaloid) in your sleeping bag at night—they lose juice more quickly as the mercury drops. Read more about some of our favorite backcountry electronics here.

• Map, compass, and the knowledge to use both
• GPS device (optional)
• Navigation app, like Gaia GPS (optional)

Always carry a topographic map and compass and know how to use them. GPS devices and smartphone apps are great tools, but can run out of battery or malfunction. Peace of mind requires carrying only a few extra ounces and a quick navigation course. Read more about backcountry navigation here.

Repair and Emergency

• First aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Knife or multitool
• Bear spray (in grizzly country)
• Sleeping pad patch kit
• Waterproof matches/ firestarter

You can easily buy a first aid kit that has everything you need (and more), or simply grab a waterproof bag and raid your own medicine cabinet or pharmacy for a low-cost alternative. Duct tape is one of the most useful all-purpose tools you can carry,  and can help with medical emergencies and gear repair. Sleeping pad patch kits are especially important if you’re sleeping on rough ground. Read more about building emergency kits here.

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The Ultimate Backpacking Packing List

Here's everything on outdoor experts' checklists for hitting the trails on an overnight trip.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist
• T+L's Top Picks and Tips
• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

It’s important to arrive in the great outdoors prepared — both for safety reasons and to have a more enjoyable experience altogether. Prepping for an overnight or weekend-long trek? We’re here to ensure you have a seamless journey with a rundown of the best products to have in your pack. The process of preparing for a backpacking trip can be daunting, so we chatted with Leilah Grace, an avid backpacker and vice president of the American Perimeter Trail, for tips and tricks that’ll have you feeling at home in nature in no time.

While it can be overwhelming and expensive to start backpacking, you'll know the prep was well worth it once you start hiking. “When you're out on [the] trail, [everything] strips away and you get this opportunity to just see who you are and be who you want to be. And I don't think you need to be on a long trail to do that. I think you can do that overnight. I think you can do that in a weekend,” Grace stressed.

Keep reading below to find our comprehensive packing list as well as expert tips and advice.

Packing Checklist for a Backpacking Trip

Here, you’ll find the necessities for heading out into the wilderness for an overnight trip. From putting together a comfortable sleeping system to prepping a portable kitchen, we shared our favorite products and plenty of expert tips.

• Best Backpacking Tent: MSR Freelite 2 Tent: 2-Person 3-Season
• Best Sleeping Bag: Therm-a-rest Hyperion 20F/-6C Ultralight Down Mummy Sleeping Bag
• Best Sleeping Pad: Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Sleeping Pad
• Best Backpacks: REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack for Women and Men  
• Best Packable Daypack: Sea to Summit Ultra-sil Travel Day Pack
• Best Rain Jacket: Marmot PreCip Rain Jacket for Women and Men
• Best Base Layers: Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top for Women and Men
• Best Fleece Layers: REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket for Women and Men
• Best Packable Jacket: L.L. Bean PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket for Women and Men
• Best Hiking Pants: Helly Hansen Brona Softshell Pants for Women and Men
• Best Hiking Socks: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock for Women and Men
• Best Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex Hiking boot for Women and Men
• Best Hiking Shoes: Merrell Speed Eco for Women and Men
• Best Hiking Sandals: Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals for Women and Men

Food and Kitchen

• Best Backpacking Stove and Fuel: MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Stove
• Best Cookware Set: Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo Cookset
• Best Water Filter: MSR AutoFlow XL 10-liter Backcountry Gravity Water Filter
• Best Water Bottle: Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best Backpacking Meals: Backpacker’s Pantry

Accessories

• Best Handheld GPS: Garmin InReach Mini
• Best Hygiene Wipes: Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes
• Best Headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 425
• Best First Aid Kit: Adventure .3 Medical Kit
• Best Trekking Poles: REI Co-op Traverse Trekking Poles

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Since gear will be the heaviest items you pack in your backpack, it’s important to find the most lightweight options possible that won’t take up too much space either. The first few pieces of gear on your packing list should be a backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. While your sleeping system should weigh around 7 pounds or less, ideally, your tent will weigh a bit more. There are several types of tents for backpacking, including freestanding and tarp tents that use trekking poles to stand up. No matter your tent preference, you should aim to get a tent that weighs less than 3 pounds so you can hit the trails without feeling too weighed down.

When it comes to buying a backpack , Grace stresses the importance of getting a pack that fits your body well and doesn’t weigh you down. “I'm 5-foot-3-inches, so it's always a challenge for me. I think it's really important, especially when you're talking about a pack, to try it on,” Grace shared. She also recommends purchasing a backpack from a retailer with a generous return policy like REI in case the backpack doesn’t end up fitting your body.

Best Backpacking Tent

Msr freelite 2-person tent.

Even if you’re backpacking solo , Grace recommends getting a two-person tent. “It just gives you a little bit of extra room and you're not going to feel so cramped at night or if it's raining and you're holed up in your tent,” she said. This MSR FreeLite tent was one of the best two-person tents we tested , proving to be surprisingly spacious and easy to move around in. Weighing just over two pounds, it's exceptionally light and ultra durable, and it blew us away with the lightweight design. It also endured a night of heavy rain and wind with not a single drop of water making it into the tent.

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Noll

Best Sleeping Bag

Therm-a-rest hyperion 20f/-6c ultralight down mummy sleeping bag.

The Therm-a-rest Hyperion mummy sleeping bag delivers a plush and warm sleeping experience thanks to its 900-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down material designed for temperature regulation and water repellency. Best of all, this spurge-worthy sleeping bag weighs just 20 ounces and fits into a compression stuff sack that gets it down to the size of a 32-ounce water bottle.

Best Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-rest neoair xlite nxt ultralight camping and backpacking sleeping pad.

To complete your backpacking sleep system, we recommend Therm-a-rest's NeoAir Xlite pad. The inflatable pad easily fills with air to get 3 inches of soft cushioning between you and the floor of your tent for a comfortable night of sleep in the wilderness. With four different sizes, (large, short, regular, and regular wide) you can customize your sleeping arrangements and avoid getting a sleeping pad that takes up more space than needed in your pack.

Best Backpack

Rei co-op traverse 60 pack for women.

Grace usually backpacks with her REI Co-op Traverse backpack in the now discontinued 35-liter size. However, REI still makes several sizes of their coveted Traverse Pack including a 32-liter pack (men’s version here ) for overnight or day trips and a 60-liter backpack (men’s version here ) for weekends or longer excursions. “I'm a pretty minimalist backpacker. I don't take a lot of extra things, but with my Traverse Pack, I've been able to take that out with creative packing for five days and four nights,” Grace said, singing the praises of the comfortable and thoughtfully designed pack. The Traverse Packs have ample padding in the back, shoulder straps, and hip belt; compression straps on top to pack down your gear; and a bottom sleeping bag compartment to keep you organized on the trails.

Best Packable Daypack

Sea to summit ultra-sil travel day pack.

Although we don’t recommend bringing a full-size daypack in addition to your backpacking bag, we do think this Sea to Summit daypack is super helpful to have on hand, as it compresses down to the size of an egg — yes, an egg. This remarkably compact backpack is ideal for storing snacks, a water bottle, or sunscreen for a quick day hike up to a waterfall or lake during your longer trek. It’s virtually weightless and comes with a handy stuff sack and carabiner for easily attaching it to your backpacking bag.

Travel + Leisure / Jill DeForest Colvig

To prevent overpacking, keep it simple by sticking with the basics and wear or bring a base layer top and bottom, a mid-layer top, and one or two outer layers. Since it’s likely you’ll be wearing the same pieces of clothing for several days, it’s worth the investment to get a few high-quality layers. No matter the season, Grace will bring one or two jackets for backpacking trips. “I almost always have my puffer with me, and then I have the raincoat, and sometimes I have this other lightweight shell coat that's nice to layer with, and it packs down super duper small. So sometimes I take that and I can just hang it off my pack,” Grace said.

In addition to outer layers, Grace never forgets to pack extra socks from her favorite sock brand, Darn Tough. “I always just have one extra pair of socks with me during the day. Because sometimes if you're out a really long time, changing your socks midday really helps your feet feel better,” Grace said. “So when you stop for lunch or a late afternoon snack, taking off your socks, giving your feet a chance to breathe, and then putting on fresh socks makes all the difference in the world.”

Best Rain Jacket

Marmot precip rain jacket.

A lightweight rain jacket is one of the best outer layer pieces you can bring while hiking, and we love Marmot's Women's PreCip Eco Jacket (men’s version here ). It’s our favorite lightweight rain jacket that provides a strong protection against the elements without sacrificing mobility. Grace brings a rain jacket no matter the predicted weather for a trip. “I usually bring my raincoat because a raincoat works well as a wind [layer] and it's pretty light. So even if it's not going to be rainy, I like to have that extra wind layer,” Grace shared.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Base Layers

Icebreaker merino 200 oasis long sleeve crewe thermal top for women.

These Icebreaker tops (men’s version here ) create the perfect foundation for layering while hiking. The crewneck long-sleeve shirts are made with a lightweight merino wool with off-the-shoulder seams to prevent chafing on your shoulders, which is ideal for also carrying a backpack for long periods of time. Plus, the quick-dry, thermal-regulating, and odor-resistant fabric makes the shirt ideal for combating sweat and varying temperatures while adventuring.

Best Fleece Layers

Rei co-op trailmade fleece jacket.

This lightweight and warm fleece jacket from REI (men’s version here ) is our favorite fleece we tested for hiking. Its thin yet cozy material is ideal for trekking up a rocky hillside or descending into a valley when you don’t necessarily need to break out a puffer jacket. Since the materials aren't super thick, we found it was super easy to pack the jacket into a backpack without taking up much room.

Travel + Leisure / Stuart Haas

Best Packable Jacket

L.l.bean primaloft packaway jacket.

Backpacking in cooler seasons or high altitudes ? Be sure to bring a warm, insulated, packable jacket like L.L.Bean's PrimaLoft Packaway Hooded Jacket (men’s version here ). Designed for hiking in colder temps, this jacket proved to have the perfect balance of warmth and breathability when we tested it during a hiking trip. Plus, it packs down to a fraction of its original size, which is perfect for backpacking.

Travel + Leisure / Brit Haines

Best Hiking Pants

Helly hansen brona pants.

A high-quality pair of hiking pants is crucial for a backpacking trip, so we recommend these from Helly Hansen (men's option here ). The pants are designed with technical features like a four-way stretch fabric for mobility, boot hooks, and a DWR finish for staying dry during a trek. We're also big fans of the articulated knee design for maximizing mobility, comfort, and fit when climbing up or downhill.

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Cleveland

Best Hiking Socks

Darn tough hiker micro crew socks.

According to Grace, Darn Tough socks (men’s version here ) are worth their weight in gold for hiking. Despite the higher price for a pair of hiking socks, Grace recommends them not only for their functionality but also because the brand offers an impressive warranty program that covers damage. These midweight hiking socks boast a variety of helpful features, including the cushioned footbed, moisture-wicking merino wool fabric, and height 7.5 inches above the heel.

Similarly to backpacks, Grace advises trying on a variety of hiking boots to find the right pair. Your hiking boots or shoes should have a relatively snug fit with some room up front to wiggle your toes. You want to avoid getting a pair that is too small, as that could cause some serious pain on long hikes. If you’re unsure of your size, consider going up a half-size to see if that offers a bit more room.

There’s no better feeling than sitting down after trekking for hours and peeling off your socks and hiking shoes. If you have room in your backpack, we recommend bringing a pair of sandals to wear around camp or for a short day hike to give your feet a nice break from close-toed shoes.

Best Hiking Boots

Salomon x ultra 4 mid gore-tex women's.

These Salomon hiking boots (men’s version here ) are just as lightweight as a pair of trail runners but boast the sturdiness and support of a typical hiking boot. The brand’s Contagrip MA outsoles have intricate traction for stability on a variety of terrain and the upper has Gore-tex laminate waterproofing so you’ll never have to worry about soggy feet after walking through a stream or slipping on slick surfaces. Plus, the footbed and upper is designed to cradle and stabilize your foot so you’ll have plenty of comfort and support for all the miles you cover while backpacking.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Hiking Shoes

Merrell speed eco.

The Merrell Speed Eco (men’s version here ) are a great option for hikers looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for summer hikes. We love that the shoes are broken in and can be worn right out of the box. The EVA footbed and built-in arch support offer the ideal balance of cushioning and support, and the breathable material kept our feet from overheating during a hot Arizona hike when we tested them out .

Travel + Leisure / Rachel Thalhuber

Best Hiking Sandals

Chaco women's z/cloud x2.

You can never go wrong with a pair of Chacos Z/Cloud Sandals (men’s version here ) for virtually any outdoor activity . Whether you’re day hiking along a river or setting up camp, these supportive sandals are built for adventure and only getting more comfortable the more miles that are put on them. The supportive cushioning, contoured footbed, and soft polyester Z-shaped straps make these sandals the best pair to toss in your bag for a multi-day backpacking trip when you might want a break from your hiking boots.

Travel + Leisure / Hannah Berg

The last thing you want to bring on a backpacking trip is food that goes bad easily, so stick to non-perishable or freeze-dried foods. Freeze-dried or dehydrated food is super easy to make in the woods — all you need is boiled water to rehydrate your meals. To boil your water, be sure to bring a lightweight camp stove and fuel, as well as a mini pot and utensils like a multi-use tool that can be used as a fork, spoon, or knife. Other must-have pieces of kitchen gear include a water filter so you can stay hydrated safely and a water bottle for storing your clean water.

Best Backpacking Stove and Fuel

Msr pocketrocket deluxe ultralight camping and backpacking stove.

For an all-in-one kit that includes fuel and a mini stove top, consider this compact, easy-to-put-together option from MSR. “It’s what I've had for the last four years. I've never had an issue with it. I love it — it's light and it's easy. The biggest issue I have is if it happens to be windy, you've got to make some type of windscreen, but then I just tend to use my feet, my body, or my food bag or all of the above,” Grace said. With an average boil time of just over three minutes, you’ll have your freeze-dried meals dehydrated quickly and efficiently.

Best Cookware Set

Snow peak mini solo cookset.

This set of ultra-light cookware is fairly bare bones, which is exactly what you need when packing light for a backpacking trip. The set of two titanium pots weighs just over six ounces (about the weight of a cell phone) making them extremely light and easy to pack. With this pot and cup set, you can make your morning coffee or evening meals with ease thanks to the nesting feature and silicone tab lid for hassle-free cookouts in nature.

Best Water Filter

Msr autoflow xl10l gravity filter.

This heavy-duty filter from MSR can hold up to 10 liters of clean water in a reservoir so you can easily refill your bottle to stay hydrated. With the ability to filter 1.75 liters of water per minute, the bag just has to be filled with water and hung on a tree, and you can let gravity do its thing to filter the water through the straw-like tube. Plus, the bag and tube lay completely flat so you can place it in your pack without it taking up hardly any room.

Best Water Bottle

Healthy human vacuum insulated double walled thermos.

After extensive water bottle testing , we love the Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle for hiking. The wide-mouth opening makes it super easy to drink the water and the bottle keeps water cold for up to 24 hours. Best of all, the stainless steel material is super lightweight so it can be clipped to your backpack or carried without feeling cumbersome.

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Backpacking Meals

Backpacker’s pantry freeze-dried meals.

Freeze-dried meals may not sound like the most mouth-watering food, but trust us, you’ll think differently after munching on Backpacker’s Pantry selection of meals like Pad Thai, lasagna, chicken risotto, Cuban coconut rice and black beans, or the gooey and comforting three cheese mac and cheese. Besides an array of entrees, the brand also has filling oatmeal and granola for breakfast or delectable desserts like crème brûlée and mango sticky rice.

Small accessories can have a big impact when you’re out backpacking. When it comes to safety, you don’t want to mess around, so we recommend bringing a variety of just-in-case items like a first aid kit and a handheld GPS device. Other must-pack accessories include a lighter, toilet paper (be sure to check regulations on packing in and out toilet paper in your area), small trash bags, and a rain cover for your backpack. A small pocket knife could also prove useful.

When asked what the one thing she can’t backpack without is, Grace shared that a good headlamp is essential for camping at night. “Having that ability to see in the dark, you just need a good headlamp. You need a good source of light, whether that's a headlamp or something else,” Grace stressed.

Best Handheld GPS

Garmin inreach mini.

Safety is imperative when you go off the grid, so consider bringing a handy navigation tool . With this device, also a satellite communicator, backpackers can send and receive texts, download maps, check the weather, or send out an SOS alert 24/7 to direct search and rescue in the event of an emergency. Even if you don’t have cellphone service, this tiny device operates via a global iridium satellite network so you can have peace of mind while enjoying all nature has to offer.

Best Hygiene Wipes

Sea to summit wilderness wipes.

While you can certainly rock your natural musk after not showering for several days, it's helpful to have some biodegradable and unscented hygiene wipes on hand like this pack from Sea to Summit. In lieu of toilet paper, these wipes work for a variety of cleanliness needs, but be sure to pack out any used wipes to protect the environment.

Best Headlamp

Biolite headlamp 425.

A bright headlamp like BioLite's newest model is a must-pack accessory for safety after dark. This battery-powered headlamp has a thin but powerful light piece that lays flat on the band so the light doesn’t weigh down the headpiece or bob around. Depending on which setting the light is on, the battery has up to 60 hours of life to provide 425 lumens of light when you’re shuffling around camp at night.

Best First Aid Kit

Adventure medical kits ultralight watertight .3 medical kit.

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it’s important to always head out into the wildness overly prepared. This compact first aid kit comes with everything you need to tend to scrapes, cuts, blisters, and other minor injuries that can happen while hiking. The kit includes medical essentials like bandages of various sizes, antibiotic ointment, sterile non-woven sponges, antiseptic wipes, moleskin, and AfterBite wipes for insect bites. For preventive measures, supplement this kit with a bug spray .

Best Trekking Poles

Rei co-op trekking poles.

Trekking poles can have a variety of purposes while backpacking, so we recommend bringing along REI’s Traverse poles. Whether you’re using the trekking poles for stability or for setting up your tent, these aluminum poles are conveinently ultra lightweight, weighing just over 1 pound for both sizes available. When you’re not using the trekking poles, they can collapse down to just a fraction of their maximum length for easily strapping them onto your backpack or storing at home.

What to Know Before Packing for a Backpacking Trip

You can save by reusing what you already own.

If you’re trying out backpacking for the first time, Grace recommends looking at what you already own before investing in pricey camping gear. “Look around and see what you have at your house because you might just be able to repurpose some things,” Grace said. That versatile fanny pack you bought for a Eurotrip may work perfectly for shorter day hikes, for example. “For me, it's been a balance of finding out what other people use by asking them, and then seeing what I have at home and what I really absolutely need to buy.”

Break in your gear before heading out — and know how to use it

Before you pack up for an overnight excursion, ensure all of your gear has been tested and broken in by day hiking or playing around with it at home. It can be unsafe to venture off into the woods with gear that you don’t know how to use properly or with hiking boots that are stiff and could cause injuries. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider stopping into an outdoor store like REI where an expert can help you in person, or, as Grace recommends, connecting with local hikers via social media for more tips. “My advice is to find somebody somewhere in the hiking community,” she shared. “I'm in a number of Facebook groups, and I get a lot of recommendations from them, but I think that that's sort of the easiest way. That's how I got into it.”

While it’s ultimately a personal choice on what to bring and leave behind for backpacking, there are a few things you can leave at home and probably not miss. It's wise to leave valuable jewelry behind because of the risk of losing or damaging it while roughing it outdoors. In addition, consider leaving behind bulky garments or more than one or two pieces of extra clothing to save space.

The key to keeping your backpack light is to avoid overpacking by only bringing the necessities. Since some of the essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, and even your backpack can be on the heavier side, you can bring the total weight down by investing in lightweight gear. If you’re hiking with multiple people, consider dividing up the shared items like the tent, tarp, cookware, and food to distribute the weight evenly.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp grew up hiking and backpacking in the Cascade mountains outside of Bend, Oregon. Some of her favorite hiking accomplishments include summiting the South Sister mountain overnight to watch the sunrise and backpacking parts of the Pacific Crest Trail. Anna picked products to highlight based on her own knowledge and testing, as well as interviewing Leilah Grace , the vice president of the American Perimeter Trail .

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The Ultimate Backpacking Checklist & Gear Guide

When planning a backpacking trip, there are a few essential things to keep in mind to make the most out of your wilderness experience. The supplies and gear you pack can make or break your adventure. This post contains tips on how to get started and plan your trip, gear suggestions, and a complete backpacking checklist.

Take it from someone who has been backpacking for 10+ years, and gone on 20+ wilderness backpacking trips around the world (to elevations as high as 19,341 ft). I’ve overpacked, under packed, and have done my best with subpar gear, until I slowly accumulated the equipment and knowledge I have now.

I don’t claim to know everything, and I still don’t have all THE absolute top of the line gear, but I’ve created this checklist and gear guide for other adventurous souls who want to get outdoors, and don’t know where to start. This guide allows you to learn from my years of packing mistakes and backpacking lessons all in one easy read.

Quick Note: If you already have car camping gear (e.g. tent, sleeping bag, stove), these items probably aren’t going to be ideal for backpacking due to their size and weight. If you want to adventure off-the-beaten-path, away from cars and cities, it’s best to invest in more lightweight backpacking gear from the start.

~ Free Backpacking Checklist ~

Get a FREE Printable PDF version of the Backpacking Checklist sent straight to your inbox when you sign up for my newsletter!

8 Things to Keep in Mind Before a Backpacking Trip:

• Ideally, you want to keep your pack under 20% of your body weight (when it is full of gear, food and water). Weight is one of the most important factors in choosing your backpacking equipment and packing. You are literally carrying everything on your back, and each ounce adds up quickly. Remember to always check the weight of your equipment before making a purchase. Keep your pack as light as possible & don’t bring unnecessary clothes and equipment.
• Always pack extra water and a water treatment device or tablets (advice on how much water to pack here )
• Be prepared with a First Aid Kit  and Emergency Kit (emergencies can happen even with the best planning)
• Pack layers (layering your clothing is the best way to keep warm and stay insulated in cold weather), long sleeves also protect against harmful UV rays from the sun, and bugs
• Prepare for rain , even if it’s not in the forecast (e.g. pack a rain jacket, backpack rain cover, and rain tent cover)
• You might need a permit for the wilderness area you are backpacking in, check and apply in advance
• PLEASE DON’T LITTER! Plan to pack out all your garbage, so that everyone can enjoy the view (including your toilet paper)
• PLEASE camp at least 200 feet from a water source (this ensures you are not contaminating freshwater)

Essential Backpacking Gear

It is important to remember that quality equipment will probably last you longer, but you don’t necessarily need the most expensive gear to go backpacking. In fact, my first pair of hiking boots were from Costco and cost $25, and I hiked down the Grand Canyon, up Mount Kilimanjaro, and through parts of the Appalachian Trail in them with no problems! I still also prefer some budget gear items over their more expensive counterparts.

1. Backpacking Pack

When choosing a backpack it is important to try it on with weight bags in it, at an outdoor store such as Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) to ensure that it is comfortable and fits correctly. This also allows you to get your torso measured and ensure you are getting the correct size for your body frame.

It’s also important to consider what types of trips you’ll be taking. If it varies (e.g. traveling on planes, hostel backpacking, and wilderness backpacking) you might want a more versatile pack. For a multi-day trip, it is recommended to use a pack that is 50-80 liters. For a weekend trip, you can get by with a 30-50 liter pack.

I used a 45 Liter REI pack for several years, which worked just fine. I typically strapped my sleeping bag to the outside though. As I started to take longer backpacking trips, and my backpack stared falling apart, I upgraded to a   65 Liter Women’s Osprey Ariel Backpack , which I love. It has 3 entry points and a top lid that comes off and converts into a daypack. The Ariel Pack is also perfect for hostel backpacking and can be used as a carry-on item on a plane (when not packed to the max), and/or for multi-day wilderness camping trips because of its genius anti-gravity system, extremely comfortable straps and waist belt.

My mom thru-hiked the 800-mile Arizona Trail with an ultra-lightweight Osprey Eja 58 Pack and she highly recommends that pack for thru hikes and lightweight backpacking in general.

My fiancé uses a Mammut Trion pack , and he really loves it for being able to easily and safely store and separate his camera gear. Plus, it’s a great rock climbing gear bag. It also allows easy access to all your gear from the back rather than just the front or the top.

Women’s Osprey Ariel Anti Gravity 65L Pack

Weight: 4 lbs. 13.6 oz.

Check the price: REI | Amazon

Women’s Ultralight Osprey Eja 58 Pack

Weight: 2 lbs. 10 oz. (but can be reduced to 2 lbs. 3.4 oz.)

Men’s Mammut Trion 50L Pack

Weight: 3 lbs. 7 oz.

2. Backpacking Tent

When choosing a backpacing tent , you want to think about weight, compactness, and simplicity. You don’t want a tent that is difficult to set up, because you might need to quickly set up camp due to inclement weather. You also want something that isn’t going to take up all the space in your pack. But most importantly, you want a lightweight tent that isn’t going to weigh you down, ideally your tent should weigh under 5 pounds (for 2 person tents) and 4 pounds (for 1 person tents) .

You also want to make sure you pair your tent with a cover/rain fly , this is important for staying dry and insulating you by retaining heat while you sleep.

I have always used at least a 2-person tent, because I like having the extra space for my gear inside and space to change etc, and I’ve almost always ended up sharing my tent with a friend or boyfriend anyway. So unless you plan to do many solo trips and you are trying to be ultra lightweight, I recommend investing in a 2-person tent, and then you can split up the tent in your hiking buddy’s pack to distribute the weight between the two of you.

Finally, it is a good idea to bring a tent footprint . Most tents make a footprint that corresponds with your tent to keep the bottom of your tent clean and dry, and to ensure that water doesn’t seep in if it starts to rain. Tent footprints also lengthen the life of your tent by preventing damage like rips from sharp objects on the ground.

Below are a few tents I’ve used over the years, but I am currently using the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 3-person tent because it has an extra 10 inches of width, and the extra space is nice for backpacking with my partner and two big dogs. It’s also dyed in a more sustainable way than standard tents, and the spacious two vestibule design makes storing gear easy, and the almost entirely mesh design of the tent makes stargazing easy if the weather is nice and you don’t need your rain fly up. You can also ditch the tent and use the rain fly and tent footprint to make the sleep system even more lightweight.

Kelty Salida 2P

Great lightweight budget tent: Kelty Salida (4 lbs. 9 oz.) |Cost: $

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL

Lightweight design, single-pole system and 2 vestibule tent: Big Agnes Tiger Wall (2 lbs. 8 oz.) | Cost: $$

Nemo Hornet Elite 2

Ultra-lightweight tent: Nemo Hornet Elite 2 (2 lbs. 3 oz.) | Cost: $$$

Check the price: REI

3. Sleeping Bag

Your backpacking sleeping bag should take into consideration the climates you plan to camp in and what time of year you’ll be camping. If you’re unsure it’s best to get a 3-season bag that is at least rated from 0 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (meaning it can withstand and keep you warm in freezing cold temperatures).

It’s also important to note the length depending on your height. If you are short like me, it’s best to get a short bag, because there is no need to carry extra fabric and weight. Also, I recommend materials that are water-resistant (synthetic down fillings are better in this regard).

I currently alternate between the Big Agnes Sun Beam 15 and the REI Co-op Magma 15 . I like the design of the Big Agnes bag better (it has a slot for your sleeping pad underneath which acts as the bottom insulation), and it’s more compact, but I feel like the Magma keeps me warmer and it’s lighter. So I end up using the Big Agnes in warmer weather, and the REI Magma in colder weather.

Women’s Big Agnes Sun Beam 15

• Temperature Rating: 15 degrees (F)
• Fill: 100% recycled ECO synthetic fibers
• Weight (regular size) : 3 lbs. 1 oz.

Women’s REI Co-op Magma 15

• Temperature Rating: 17 degrees (F)
• Fill: 850-fill-power goose down (RDS certified and bluesign® approved)
• Weight (regular size) : 2 lbs. 4 oz.

4. Sleeping Pad

A sleeping pad is extremely important for comfort and ensuring that you get a good night’s sleep while camping. You should consider if you want a compact and inflatable pad or a larger lightweight accordion style foam pad .

I’ve always used inflatable pads, but a lot of people prefer foam sleeping pads (these are typically larger and therefore stored outside of your backpack). Pros to foam pads are that they are typically less expensive, lighter, and they are also good for using as a cushion when resting and/or eating. Some people even like to combine foam and inflatable pads for extra comfort.

Make sure you compare the lengths of the sleeping pad you want (most come in short, regular, and long). If you are shorter, getting the right length means you can carry less weight and save space in your pack. I have used the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Sleeping Pad , but the Othway Inflatable Pad (with a built in step air pump and pillow ) is just $29 on Amazon and comfier in my opinion. It is a bit heavy, but the ease of inflating it with a foot pump, and the built in pillow, are worth it for me. I can’t speak to how durable it will be long-term, since it is a cheap mat, but it’s pretty comfortable!

Update (September 2021) : I have recently switched to the Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Sleeping Pad , and it’s the comfiest sleeping bad I’ve ever used by far, and the best insulated. I also like that it comes with an inflate sack that is made from upcyled materials as well. It’s a bit pricey and slightly more expensive than the other, but that’s because it comes with a nice 3.5 inches of thickness in the middle (and even more on the sides). I’m a side sleeper, and comfort is very important to me, since I tend not to get the best sleep when my hips are jabbing into the ground. For those reasons, this is the best pad out of the handful I’ve tried.

Therm-a-rest ProLite

Weight (regular size) : 1 lb. 2 oz.

Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe

Weight (regular size): 1 lb. 9 oz.

Othway Inflatable Pad w/ Built-in Pillow & Pump

Weight: 1 lb. 5.7 oz.

Check the price: Amazon

5. Backpacking Stove

All my backpacker friends have different opinions about stoves, but I swear by my JetBoil Flash Cooking System . It boils 2 cups of water in 100 seconds and is extremely fuel efficient. It has an easy ignitor button, and color change heat indicator to show you when your water is boiling. You can also use the insulated cooking cup to eat or drink directly out of. It is basically an all in one, stove, pot, cup, bowl, and lighter.

My mom uses the lightweight Esbit Fuel Stove & Cookset though, and swears by that! She just adds a little reflectix layer around it, to keep her water insulated and it allows her to use it as a cup when the contents inside are hot.

JetBoil Flash

Weight: 13.1 ounces

Liquid Capacity: 1 liter (33.8 fluid ounces)

Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane canister

Esbit Stove

Weight: 7 ounces

Liquid Capacity: 0.59 liters (20 fluid ounces)

Fuel Type: Esbit Fuel Tablets

Keep in mind that if you have a Jet Boil or another stove that uses propane or butane canisters for fuel, that you can’t bring the fuel on an airplane with you. Also, if you don’t get a stove with a cook set, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a pot/cup for cooking and eating out of.

Even if you buy a stove with an ignitor, it’s a good idea to bring some backup stormproof matches .

You’ll also need a compact eating utensil, I recommend a lightweight titanium spork .

6. Backpacking Water Reservoir

You’ll need a water reservoir/bladder or some form of container to store your drinking and cooking water in. Which kind you choose is a matter of personal preference, and I prefer to bring a few options with me (one for drinking while hiking, and one for storing cooking water and filtering water in).

There are a lot of factors for how much water you’ll need to carry (e.g. weather, distance, trail difficulty, water source availability), but a general rule is that on a moderate hike in moderate weather , you’ll need to drink .5 liters/hour. You need an additional liter for every 1,000ft of elevation gain. You’ll also need water for preparing your meals. Dehydrated food takes .5 – 1 liters per pouch.

I personally like to be able to carry 3-5 liters of water at any given time when I’m backpacking (I carry 5 liters if there are not a lot of natural water sources on the trail to refill my water supply).

Water Bladders with a straw, and top refill opening, like the Platypus Big Zip , are a great way to store drinking/cooking water and also give you the convenience of not having to stop hiking to take a drink. They come in various sizes and brands, but top-opening reservoirs make it especially easy to refill and treat your water. Collapsible water containers without straws are a less convenient but more lightweight option. The Platypus collapsible bottle also comes with a top screw cap opening that fits common straw water filters. Finally, there is always the trusty Nalgene bottle.

Osprey 3L Bladder (with straw)

Weight: 7.8 ounces

Liquid Capacity: 3 liters

Platypus Collapsible Water Container

Weight: 1.3 ounces

Liquid Capacity: 2 liters

42 Oz Nalgene Bottle

Weight: 5.5 ounces

Liquid Capacity: 1.42 liters

7. Water Treatment

Water treatment is very important, especially for hikes longer than 2 days. Water is heavy, 1 liter weighs 2.2 pounds (1 kg). So typically if you carry about 3 liters in your pack, you’ll need to refill from a natural source within a day. Rivers and creeks contain various parasites and bacteria, so you need to treat the water you refill your reservoir or bottle with.

There are a lot of water treatment options  such as:

• Ultraviolet (UV Light) Water Purifiers (require batteries – best to bring tablets as backups)
• Gravity & Straw Filters
• Water Purifying Tablets and Drops (takes a long time, and they make water taste bad, it’s recommended to combine these with taste neutralizers)
• Boiling water for 5 minutes or more also kills most germs and parasites (consider fuel usage though if this is your water treatment plan)

Note: I always bring purifying tablets incase my other method of water filtration breaks.

My Favorite Water Filters

1l katadyn collapsible water filter bottle.

Weight: 2.3 ounces

Also available in a 3L Bottle

Sawyer Squeeze Mini

Weight: 2 ounces

Sawyer 1 Gallon Gravity Filter

Weight: 8.8 ounces

Steripen UV Water Purifier

Weight: 4.94 ounces (w/ batteries)

8. Bear Safety

If you are hiking anywhere where there are bears, during bear season, it is important to take precautions. There are various bear safety items  such as bear spray, a bear bell, and bear food containers .

Always check with local park or forest service offices about the specific instructions for backpacking in bear territory. Typically, you need to place all your food and food wrappers/garbage, lotions, toothpaste, etc. in a bear-proof container or bag, and place it 100 yards downwind from your campsite. Otherwise, you need to place it in an odor barrier bag and hang it (using nylon chord) on a tree branch away from your sleeping spot. DO NOT SLEEP WITH FOOD OR OTHER PRODUCTS WITH ODORS INSIDE YOUR TENT IN BEAR TERRITORY.

Garcia Bear Resistant Container

Weight: 2 pounds 12 ounces

Capacity: 10 liters

Ursack Major XL Bear Sack

Capacity: 15 liters

*Made of bulletproof fabric

Backpacking Clothing

In general, you want to make sure that you pack enough layers to stay warm in whichever climate you intend to hike in.

Base Layers

Your base layers can help regulate your body temperature while you’re hiking and sleeping.

You’ll want to pack Moisture Wicking/ Quick Drying Base Layers . These act as thermals (if it gets cold), and can double as sleepwear.

Natural materials like wool are good if it’s cold, or synthetics like polyester are a good choice if it’s warmer (just avoid cotton).

Quick Dry Hiking Clothes (Shirts & Bottoms)

Moisture-wicking and quick-dry materials are always recommended for your hiking layers too.

Long sleeve shirts and pants with sun protection also allow you to skip sunscreen, and protect you against insects.

My Favorite Women’s Hiking Shirts

My Favorite Women’s Hiking Bottoms

Rain Jacket/ Wind Breaker

You ALWAYS want to pack a lightweight rain jacket , because the weather can be extremely unpredictable. Your rain jacket can also double as a windbreaker. I am currently using and am obsessed with the Patagonia Rainshadow jacket . It’s waterproof, super lightweight, breathable, and compact, while still maintaining durability and it’s made from 100% recycled materials. My partner recommends the Arc’teryx Alpa FL Rain Jacket for men.

Women’s Patagonia Rainshadow Jacket

Check the Price: Patagonia

Men’s Arc’teryx Alpa FL Rain Jacket

Socks made out of moisture-wicking materials like wool are ideal. My mom, who is prone to blisters, swears by these WRIGHTSOCK Double Layered Cool Mesh socks . My favorite hiking socks are below.

Darn Tough Coolmax Micro Crew Cushioned Socks

Smart Wool Hike Lite Ankle Socks

Don’t forget to pack at least 2 pairs of underwear, one to wear, and one to change into. Ideally, you want a pair of quick-dry underwear that are comfortable and give you full coverage. I like to wear black underwear, since this doubles as my bathing suit if I jump into a lake or a stream.

Women’s Patagonia Barely Hipster Underwear

Check the price: REI | Patagonia

You’ll want to make sure you choose a comfortable sports bra that won’t irritate your skin or move around with the weight of your backpack. Your sports bra can also double as a swimsuit. The Patagonia Barely sports bra , is my go to backpacking bra.

Patagonia Barely Sports Bra

Check the price: Patagonia

You’ll want a hat with good sun protection (all around your face and neck). My favorite hiking hat is the Sahara Cape Cap, because it’s compact, adjustable, you can tuck in the cape when you’re not using it, and it offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

Additional Clothing For Cold Weather Trips

I recommend adding all of the following cold weather items, if you plan to backpack in colder weather/ high elevations. But honestly, I usually pack at least a compact down jacket, beanie, and gloves, regardless of the weather forecast , because as I mentioned before, weather is unpredictable. And even places like the desert can get cold at night in the summer.

• Beanie or Headband
• Polar Buff (multi-function headwear/scarf)
• Fleece Jacket or Fleece Pullover
• Packable Down/Synthetic Alternative Jacket

Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Hoodie

Check the prices: REI | Patagonia

Polar Buff (multifunctional scarf and headwear)

Patagonia Micro D Fleece Pullover

Backpacking Footwear

You’ll need a durable pair of Hiking Boots/ Trail Shoes with good traction, and you’ll need to test them out and wear them in a bit before your trip.

I prefer boots with ankle support, but most long distance thru hikers wear and recommend “trail shoes”. My mom really liked how her Altra Trail Shoes held up on the Arizona Trail. I am currently using my Columbia Trail Shoes (in warmer weather) and my Vasque Waterproof boots (in colder weather).

If you do chose trail shoes rather than hiking boots, I highly recommend using hiking poles to ensure that you have some more stability while hiking. I’ve been using my Leki Micro Vario Cor-Tec Poles for a few years and I love them!

Leki Lightweight Collapsible Trekking Poles

Weight: 1 pound 3.2 ounces

I also recommend packing hiking sandals . These can be good for crossing rivers/streams, and using as “slippers” around your campsite.

Safety & Emergency Gear

There are a number of safety supplies that are important to include in your packing list. I’ve included some of the bigger safety and emergency gear items below, but you can also go to the “ Safety, Health, Emergency, & Repair Supplies ” checklist section for a more comprehensive packing list.

SOS/Navigation/ GPS Satellite Device

Having some form of satellite GPS tracker and SOS tool if your backpacking solo is essential in my opinion. I have used the SPOT 3 Satellite GPS Messenger , which was very handy and more affordable but offered limited services compared to other satellite devices. Now my partner and I have the Garmin In Reach Explorer+ which is a GPS tracker, navigation tool, 2-way satellite messenger and SOS device all in one. It allows you to check the weather, send text messages, view maps, allow someone to track your journey, and has a button for getting help in an emergency (all these features are accessible “offline” and out of cell range).

A headlamp is a safety necessity because you might have to hike or go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, but it also just makes finding things in your tent much more convenient in the dark. I use the Black Diamond Storm 400 headlamp . It provides up to 400 lumens of light, with multiple light settings, and it’s waterproof.

Lightweight Multitool

Check the prices & options: REI

Lightweight First-Aid Kit

Check the options & Prices: REI

Multi-Purpose Compass/Whistle/ Magnifying Glass

Watertight Fire Starter Kit

Topographic Weatherproof Map

You’ll want to make sure you have a Topographic Map (that is waterproof and tear-resistant) for the trail you are doing. You can typically get them from major trails at REI .

Hygiene & Toiletries

You’ll want to bring a small travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste. Short travel toothbrushes with refillable toothpaste containers are perfect for backpacking. You can also bring toothpaste tablets , which are smaller and more compact than liquid toothpaste and you can fit them in a refillable tube or a separate container.

It’s a good idea to pack some wet wipes for cleaning your face and body after a day of accumulating sweat, sunscreen, dirt etc.

You’ll also want to pack a trowel , which is just a small lightweight shovel for digging a cathole (a hole for you to do your bathroom business in). Likewise, you’ll want to pack toilet paper, but you’ll need to pack it out with you, which is why bringing a large ziplock bag for garbage is always a good idea.

You’ll definitely want to bring hand sanitizer, so you can clean up after you go to the bathroom and before you eat. If you aren’t just bringing pre-packaged dehydrated backpacking meals for food, then you’ll want a multi-purpose soap to be able to do dishes.

If you’re a woman who might be on their period during your trip, you can pack a menstrual cup . Just dig a hole to dump the blood in and be sure to bring biodegradable unscented all-purpose soap to clean yourself and your cup.

Finally, you’ll want to bring sun protection for your whole body (but especially for your face, hands, and lips)! That means you’ll need to pack chapstick with SPF in it .

Camera Gear & Electronics

Camera gear is heavy, and the lighter it is, the more expensive it becomes. So to be honest, if you have a smartphone, you technicaly own a decent lightweight camera already. But if you want something nicer to capture the scenery you’ll be witnessing on your journey, you can check out the backpacking camera gear I always pack below.

I usually bring my GoPro and my Sony a6300 cameras when I go backpacking, since they are both small and lightweight. Sony Alpha’s mirrorless cameras are some of the most compact and lightweight DSLRs on the market.

I typically use my GoPro for filming, and my Sony for taking photos, and I carry my go GoPro on a 3-way grip, arm, tripod and my partner usually carries this lightweight Vanguard Carbon Fiber tripod for our DSLR cameras. This camera clip is also great for carrying your camera on your backpack strap while you hike for quick and easy access.

To charge my camera gear and phones, I usually bring my inflatable solar lantern/charger and a larger solar charger battery bank . Don’t forget to pack your camera and phone charging chords! You can buy short cellphone chargers on Amazon , so you don’t have to carry around extra material and weight.

I recently purchased a Garmin Fenix 6S Sapphire GPS Smart Watch , and it’s quickly become one of my new favorite pieces of gear! It has colored navigation, tracking and other GPS features, in addition to an elevation gauge, storm alerts, sunrise/sunset times, and other weather/temperature functions. Plus it has your standard smart watch features like heart rate, step counter, stress and body energy gauges, sleep cycle monitor, you can even sync your menstrual data to it and store music on it to listen with bluetooth headphones without your phone! This is definitely not necessary, but if you can afford it, and you’ve been looking for a multi-sport GPS watch, I highly recommend this one!

Backpacking Meals

Dry foods that are nutritious and high in calories are ideal for backpacking. For meals and snacks, think about things that don’t require refrigeration or a lot of preparation.

Breakfast: Oatmeal is a great lightweight, energy-filled and compact breakfast option.

Snacks: Trail mix (nuts and dried fruits are perfect for providing the energy your body needs for hiking). I love Kind , RXBAR and LÄRABAR because I have Celiac Disease and they are all gluten-free. I also highly recommend packing at least 1 pack of GU or energy gel per day to ensure that you are getting all the calories you need to fuel you on your hike.

My favorite snack bars

Lunch and Dinner: Pasta and instant rice are great dinner options if you’re on a budget. You can also buy or freeze dry ingredients yourself and mix and match meals on the trail.

If you can afford it though, freeze-dried and dehydrated meals are the most convenient, lightweight option. Brands like  Good To-Go , Mountain House , and Backpacker’s Pantry provide nutritious, already-prepared meals that just require you to add water. They also offer Gluten-free, dairy free and vegetarian options for those with dietary restrictions.

Backpacker’s Pantry

Mountain House

Backpacking Packing Checklist:

Note: Major items (marked with a *) are discussed in detail in the Essential Gear Section

Essential Gear & Basic Supplies

• Backpacking Pack (45-70 liter pack)*
• Tent (Fly and Footprint also recommended)*
• Backpacking Stove (and corresponding fuel)*
• Sleeping Bag (At least rated to 32 degrees Fahrenheit)*
• Sleeping Pad *
• Water Reservoir/Bladder (3 liters or more)*
• Headlamp (and extra batteries)
• Backpack Rain Cover
• Cook set (if not included with your stove)
• Collapsible Bowl/Cup (if not included with cook set & stove)
• Eating Utensils
• Meals (Dehydrated/ Freeze-Dried Food)*
• Energy Bars/ Snacks

Safety, Hygiene, Emergency, & Repair Supplies

• Water Treatment*
• First Aid Kit
• Storm Proof Matches and/or Emergency Fire Starter Kit
• Duct Tape (For Fixing Broken Equipment and Gear)
• Compass (Preferably with a  whistle or other multi-functions)
• Topographic Map (Waterproof and Tear-resistant)
• Emergency Reflective Blanket
• Bear Canister or Bag  (Depending on region)*
• 50-foot Nylon Chord (For hanging food away from bears, if you aren’t using a bear canister- Depending on region)
• Insect Repellant
• Lip Balm/Chapstick (With sun protection)
• Travel-sized toothbrush & toothpaste or toothpaste tablets
• Hand Sanitizer
• Biodegradable Soap (Good for cleaning dishes & for hand/body wash)
• Trowel (small shovel for digging bathroom holes)
• Toilet Paper
• Trash Bag and/or Large Ziploc Bag (for packing all your trash out)

Optional, but Recommended Extra Equipment:

• SOS/Navigation Device
• Quick Dry Towel
• Ultralight Day Pack (For smaller hikes away from your campsite)
• Compression Stuff Sack
• Nalgene Water Bottle
• Backpacking Pillow (I usually just stuff my clothes into a makeshift pillow)
• Inflatable Solar Lantern
• Trekking Poles
• Multifunction Watch
• Instant Coffee
• Energy Gel/ Gu (good for a pick me up and getting the right amount of calories)
• GoPro or other durable/ waterproof camera
• Sony Alpha Lightweight Mirrorless Camera

Backpacking Clothing Pack List

• 2  x  Moisture Wicking, Quick Drying, Sun-Protective Shirts  (1 long sleeve, 1 short)
• 1  x    Moisture Wicking, Quick Drying, Sun-Protective Pants (Preferably convertible into shorts)
• 1  x    Set of Moisture Wicking/ Quick Drying Base layers (Top and bottoms/ doubles as sleepwear)
• 2 x Underwear
• 2  x    Socks (Moisture Wicking – Wool)
• 1  x    Rain Jacket
• 1  x    Sun Hat
• 1  x    Sports Bra (for Women-doubles as a swimsuit)

For Cold Weather Trips- Add the Following Items:

• Fleece Jacket
• Packable & Compact Down Jacket

Backpacking Footwear:

• Hiking Boots/Shoes (Preferably waterproof and with ankle support)
• Hiking Sandals (Good for crossing rivers/streams, and using as “slippers” around campsite)

If you want to see all the specific gear I use in one convenient location, check out my adventure gear or my hiking apparel and shoes .

Remember, if you pack the proper equipment, then it frees up your mind from unnecessary stress so that you can focus on having a great time! Now, go enjoy your adventure 🙂

Get my FREE Backpacking Essentials Checklist in a printable PDF version (with check boxes for your convenience) when you sign up for my newsletter:

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About Author

Anna is an optimist with pessimistic tendencies who enjoys making a short story long, listening to soundtracks from musicals, and watching anything in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi genre. These days you can catch her learning about off-grid living and gardening the hard way, wandering with her partner and dogs through forest roads in a camper, or hiking to waterfalls or glacial lakes. You can also find her on YouTube at Anna and Ryan.

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The Only Backpacking Checklist You’ll Ever Need

05/04/2022 by Kristin Addis 16 Comments

I looked at my friend quizzically many times over the two days that we shopped and prepped for the 8-day circuit in Torres del Paine, Chile – my first ever backpacking trip. There were so many things he knew that I didn’t know, like putting everything in its own individual bag, to exactly what to eat in order to cut down on weight, to how to eliminate every unnecessary gram.

Had I been on my own, I would have ended up with the world’s heaviest backpack. Thank goodness I had some guidance!

Since then I’ve completed several multi-day backpacking trips on three continents, most recently, completing a 4-day trip completely on my own. The following is my ultimate backpacking checklist after all of these experiences.

Just a note: There are ultralight backpackers who sleep under just a tarp and barely bring any gear or food. That’s not my style, though I do take every effort to cut down on weight while still being safe from the elements, and comfortable.

Table of Contents

Food Checklist

I usually go one of two directions with my food. Either I’ll bring instant backpacker meals, which are convenient, pack up really nice and small, and can be quite delicious, or I shop at smaller markets and buy things like pasta and powdered sauce. Neither one are going to be incredibly amazing cuisine, mind you.

That said, food tastes a lot better on the trail. Maybe it’s the hunger from hiking all day, maybe it’s the fact that you’re staring at a glacier or gorgeous valley while you eat it. Either way, I’d say that making food I’d only be mildly disappointed eating at a restaurant back home while on the trail is a success.

If you want to bring instant backpacking meals, I have a  definitive ranking of best to worst here , including organic and vegetarian options.

If you’re shopping at the grocery store, here’s what I recommend:

• 150 grams pasta, powdered potatoes, couscous, or some other quick-cooking carb per person per day. Increase or decrease depending on your personal needs.
• 4 85-gram powdered pasta sauces.
• Optional small block of cheese or salami to make pasta more exciting (one block is better than individual slices which mold more easily).
• 80-100 grams oatmeal per person per day.
• Powdered milk and chocolate milk.
• 1-2 Snicker’s or  Lara bars  (vegan), or some other form of nutrition bar per day.
• 100 grams dried fruit and nuts per day for lunches.
• 1 lightweight treat per day (oreos, candy bar, something you’ll look forward to).
• Enough ziplocks to portion out each meal (please reuse them after!).

This food list assumes that you will have water readily available on the trail. The only backpacking trips I’ve done are ones where I didn’t have to bring all of my own water in, though you may very well encounter that if hiking in the desert. In this case you should also bring 1-2 gallons per day for drinking, plus 0.5- 1 full gallon more for hygiene and cooking. You’ll also need a method to clean water just in case you run into an emergency and you need to take it from your environment, and are able to find it, listed in the gear section below.

Gear Checklist

The gear you bring is going to depend heavily on what kind of weather you will encounter. Almost all of the multi-day backpacking trails I’ve done have been in the mountains in Patagonia, Peru, Kyrgyzstan, and Alaska, which usually equates to cold weather and the possibility of snow. However if you are hiking in the desert you will have different needs.

In all of these cases you can count on cold temperatures at night, so that you’re list below is meant for harsher conditions where it’s cold and potentially very wet and windy:

• Light tent (compare different kinds here )
• Lightweight sleeping bag for 0-C or under : It’s very important that your bag keeps you warm and doesn’t weigh much! If I’m in sub zero like in Alaska, I use the  REI Coop magma sleeping bag in long  (I’m 5’8 so the regular is too short) and I’m in love with it.
• Sleeping mat  (this one is so worth the money! How did I ever use anything else?)
• Backpack that can fit all of your gear  inside . It will rain, a rain cover often isn’t enough to keep your sleeping bag dry, especially if it’s windy and the cover blows right off.
• Hiking boots:  I love this pair, even after 8 days in Alaska I didn’t have a single blister, and they keep my feet warm and dry.
• Trekking poles  – optional but very helpful for the knees. I always use them!
• SteriPEN , or some other method to sterilize your water
• Cooking stove  and at least  2 gas containers  (or 1 per every 4 days)
• Waterproof matches or firestarter
• Cooking pot 
• Spoon/fork or spork
• Knife or multitool
• Hydration bladder
• Toilet paper and a bag to put the used paper in when you’re done – pack it out!
• Small first-aid kit with medical tape
• Any prescription medications, in a waterproof container
• Waterproof map and compass, offline map with GPS, and if really in the backcountry, a satellite phone and personal locator beacon.

For the best hiking backpacks for women, check out  my post reviewing the best backpacks  on the market right now.

Clothing Checklist

For those who have never backpacked before, brace yourself because this is going to sound really gross: You should only bring two sets of clothing for your trip. Extra clothing adds unnecessary weight and there’s really no point in putting on fresh clothes only to make them gross and sweaty within five minutes anyway. Regardless of the length of my hike, whether it’s one day or eight, I still follow this rule. I do bring enough underwear for each day, and I bring extra socks.

You’ll have one set of clothing to hike in, and one set for sleeping in. If your hiking set gets wet and sweaty, I recommend either putting it in your sleeping bag with you while you sleep so that it can warm up and dry from your body heat, or if you’re not too cold once you get to camp, keep wearing it and let it dry out on your body. Yes, you will stink, yes, it will be kind of disgusting, yes, it is so totally worth it!

• 1 pair waterproof gloves
• 4 pairs of thick socks
• 2 warm merino layers
• 1 sports bra
• Enough underwear to change daily
• 2 pairs of yoga pants or whatever you prefer to hike in
• 1 waterproof ski jacket
• Optional:  foldable, water-resistant, lightweight down jacket
• 1 pair hiking boots
• 1 pair camp shoes
• 2 thin neck warmers that can double as ear warmers
• 1 hat with brim

Toiletries and Hygiene

Toiletries take up a lot of unnecessary space and they are very heavy. I personally only bring along:

• Menstrual products (a menstrual cup is definitely the easiest and most lightweight option)
• A small pack of wipes

I don’t usually wash my face at all on the trail, which I realize is probably really weird to most people, so if you want to be able to wash your face, bring along facial wipes and get water from the streams. If it’s glacial water and it’s way too cold, make peace with the wipes. I don’t personally think it’s worth it to bring extra gas to be able to heat up water to wash my face.

Deodorant is pointless, makeup is definitely pointless, and so are shampoo and conditioner, unless you will be able to shower along the trail. If you’re really in the backcountry there’s no point.

First Name:

This list is the bare bones necessities of what you’ll need when backpacking. Remember that less is more and that every small item adds up when you’re carrying everything with you on your back. Happy backpacking!

READ NEXT: 20 of the World’s Best Hikes

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

06/10/2018 at 9:09 pm

This is great info! If I’m not a big photography person but still wanted to take a few pictures to have great memories to look back on, what would you recommend? I tend to take all my travel pics with my iPhone, but is there a way to keep it from dying from cold/altitude? Or is it really best to get a camera?

Kristin says

06/13/2018 at 2:18 am

I personally feel way too limited with an iPhone. However all batteries die quickly in the cold so I like to bring a battery pack or solar charger for that.

Kailey Ekstrum says

06/10/2018 at 11:21 pm

Do you use your steripen to sterilize water in the bladder? Is there a litter limit for the pens effectiveness?

06/13/2018 at 2:17 am

Yes I do use it for that!

Jenn | DayTipper28 says

06/11/2018 at 10:32 am

Hey Kristin, great resource list. When I did my first trip to the BWCA in northern Minnesota and the camps packing list didn’t mention deodorant I was shocked. Little did I know how ineffective deodorant is on the trail! Great post of tips!

06/13/2018 at 2:16 am

Yep, might as well just not bring it!

Agathe says

06/12/2018 at 2:36 am

So many tips! This is going to be very helpful, I hope to do more hiking in my next travels. I did some in Slovenia and France and it was so amazing. Thanks for such a complete article!

06/13/2018 at 2:04 am

Glad it’s helpful!

07/06/2018 at 8:29 pm

Getting a warm enough sleeping bag is SO important! Unless you run crazy hot, always go warmer than you think you’ll need. My bag is 10F, but back when I lived in CA I wished I had a warmer bag! (Summer camping on the east coast is however a bit different) Also, think what can be multipurpose. I absolutely have to wash my face – but for backpacking, the Dr. Bronner’s unscented soap we bring for washing dishes is good enough.

07/08/2018 at 9:49 am

Dr. Bronner’s is golden and agreed, go for a warmer bag than you think you’ll need!

06/13/2020 at 12:14 pm

What do you use to scrub your dishes? Just curious what has worked for you. Thank you for the post it is amazingly helpful!

06/13/2020 at 1:04 pm

Usually just my hand, a small metal wool, and some water

Rebecca says

08/01/2018 at 4:25 am

I am loving how many Snickers bars and blocks of Milka chocolate are in that photo!!! Looks like my kind of backpacking trip 🙂

05/18/2022 at 1:39 pm

Hey, I love camping/backpacking checklists. I have a few for various styles of trips. And I love your write up. But would be GREAT if you had a download to a printable version of just the list! 🤷🏻‍♂️

Jarin from Austin says

04/19/2023 at 4:39 am

This is an amazing resource, thank you! I’m looking for a more tropical, affordable, beach side backpacking solo trip for a young woman. Any recommendations?

04/19/2023 at 9:29 am

I’ve never done that type of backpacking trip to be honest, but the Big Island of Hawaii has a multi day trek on the volcano, if that’s of interest.

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