Welcome to the ultimate backpacking gear guide by someone who has had over ten years of outdoor experience, has had many, many learnings, and who has tested a lot of gear so you don’t have to! I can still remember my first time camping in the backcountry. I lugged up a yoga mat to sleep on, four semi-warm jackets, a glass Tupperware container of pre-cooked pasta, and no cooking system to heat up any food or drink. The weather was forecasted to be sunny, but it ended up raining most of the time. Let’s just say that it was an experience I’ll never forget. Since then, it has been 10 years and I’ve learned a thing or two about the gear needed for camping in the backcountry. Keep in mind that I haven’t tried every piece of gear on the market (there’s a lot), but I do believe in the items below and their longevity. If you’re looking to start hiking or camping in the glorious backcountry, or if you’re already an outdoor lover but want another opinion on gear, this blog post is for you!

Packing for an overnight trip can be overwhelming, so I’m here to help you as much as I can. Over the years, I created a master packing list that I looked at when I needed to prep for an adventure. With every hiking and camping trip, I learned from my mistakes, what gear works (and what gear doesn’t work), and other people’s outdoor tips, and ended up with a rock-solid list to reference.

At the end of this blog post, you’ll find my backpacking checklist. Feel free to download it and use it when packing for your next adventure! Keep in mind that this list is suited for summer adventures. For spring, fall, and winter you will most likely need more layers and/or other products.

Note: there are affiliate links in this post, The Ultimate Backpacking Gear Guide, and I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase an item (at no additional cost to you). These funds go right back into creating content just like this and supporting my small business. If you do choose to purchase something, thank you for your support!

This is a long blog post—would you like to skip ahead?

• Cost of gear
• The Ten Essentials
• Leave No Trace
• Gear: Sleeping system
• Gear: Camp kitchen/hydration
• Gear: Outdoor Gear
• Gear: Protection
• Gear: Footware
• Gear: Clothing

COST OF GEAR

It took me years to collect and invest in all of the gear I own and use today. When I first started hiking, I used what I had around the house, borrowed gear from friends, and bought gear second-hand. Don’t be afraid to do the same! If you want to build your perfect backcountry camping setup without breaking the bank, here are a few tips:

1. Buy gear that lasts. If you buy gear from brands you can depend on, you will save money in the long run because it’ll last for years. Should anything go wrong with your gear, many of these companies offer repairs (ie. REI, Osprey, Patagonia, Arc’teryx, MSR, Marmot, and more). I’ve had the same MSR tent and cooking stove, Danner boots, Marmot sleeping bag, Therm-A-Rest sleeping pad, and Osprey backpack for 4-5 YEARS! I’ve lost track.
2. Buy at the right place. I recommend buying at a place that will allow easy returns if the gear isn’t working for you, has knowledgeable staff, and a lot of selection! Bonus points if it is a co-op and you get benefits.
3. If you can, buy at the right time (ie big sales, etc.).

THE TEN ESSENTIALS

On every backcountry adventure, you should have these ten essentials packed in your backpack. They don’t weigh that much in the grand scheme of things and can be distributed among your group. These items may help you in emergencies so it’s good practice to pack them. They are navigation (map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, etc.), headlamp, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen), first aid kit, knife, fire (matches, lighter, and stove), shelter (tent), extra food, extra water, and extra clothes!

LEAVE NO TRACE

In case you’re new to backcountry camping, I want to reiterate that I’m not suggesting getting every piece of gear listed today. Instead, invest in gear at the right time (like when on sale), use what you can from what you already own, borrow from friends and buy second-hand for the time being. The most important thing is that you have all the Ten Essentials, you’ll be comfortable and happy outside—everything else can wait. Before you go, I wanted to also mention the Leave No Trace Principles. If you’d like additional info, this article goes into more detail. They are guidelines so that we can minimize our impact on the outdoors and they are:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Others

One last thing: Are you Canadian?

Please know that even though I share links to American retailers, you can still shop! Not all brands can ship to Canada and you’ll have to pay for duties when the package comes across the border. I usually go to the US (Washington specifically) and get my order shipped to a US post office or shop in-store. Then, I stay and hike in WA for a couple of days so that I’m allowed to bring the gear back. If you don’t go to the US often and you’d like to place an online order (for the brands you can shop), I suggest doing so when there’s a sale so it helps balance out the duties. It’s worth it for me because I value the selection and quality of gear.

Ready for The Ultimate Backpacking Gear Guide?

GEAR: SLEEPING SYSTEM

TENT:

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 Tent: If you’re looking for a two-person tent that is incredibly lightweight (3lbs), can be set up in minutes, is spacious, has two doors and vestibules, and can handle wind and rain, this tent is it. I’ve taken it to 13 countries, including the very windy Patagonia, and it is still my favorite. It’s a three-season tent, and even though I don’t necessarily recommend this, I have taken it winter camping a handful of times.

UPDATE 2023: The newest version has a brown-coloured fly called ‘Sahara’ that I do not like—and if I am spending $500+ on a tent I want to love every single part of it. If you don’t like the colour either, I suggest trying to find an older version second hand or go with the Big Agnes option.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Tent: If you’re looking for a three-person (or two-person + space, two-person + a furry friend, etc.) this is a really great option. I bought this 3-person by Big Agnes to try out the brand and I could not be happier. It is incredibly light at 3lb 14oz (not much heavier than their two-person option or the MSR Hubba Hubba), has 8 interior pockets, and is super spacious and well structured.

Eureka! Tetragon NX 2 Tent: If you don’t want to break the bank, this is a great option. It’s a 3-season design but is a touch heavier (4lb 14oz) than the other options. Note: I have not tested this myself.

SLEEPING PAD:

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir NXT Sleeping Pad: This pad is 3″ thick and really comfortable (with minimal added weight). I own it and use it regularly! It’s also rated for colder temperatures so this is a great option if you cold weather/winter camp so you only need to own one pad for all seasons. That said, if you don’t see yourself winter camping, I’d opt for one of the other two options.

Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad: If you’re a side sleeper, you’ll like this three-season, 2″thick option. If you have a Sea to Summit pillow you can lock it to your pad which is a cool feature. My friends rave about this pad and I just purchased one for the summer.

NEMO Equipment Switchback Sleeping Pad: This is a great ultra-light and budget friendly option. It only has less than an inch of thickness so keep that in mind when purchasing. Note: I haven’t tested this product.

SLEEPING BAG:

Marmot Teton Sleeping Bag: While my Marmot bag is discontinued, the specs of this bag are incredibly similar. I find it’s a great temperature rating for me and my usual adventures. It has a cinchable hood for when it gets chilly, keeps your feet extra warm and it is designed to maximize warmth without weighing you down. 

Western Mountaineering 20F Alpinlite Sleeping Bag: This is an ultralight option weighing in at 1lb 15oz (vs the Marmot Teton at 2lb 14.5oz) which means it is more pricey but great for a well-seasoned backpacker. Even though it’s super lightweight you will stay as toasty as other options. This might be my next purchase! Note: I have not tested this myself (yet….)

Kelty Cosmic 20F Sleeping Bag Women’s: This is a great budget-friendly option that will save you a few bucks but still be great for backpacking trips. It doesn’t pack down as much as the other options but it has down insulation and water-resistant finish. Note: I have not tested this out.

CAMP PILLOW:

MEC Deluxe Pillow: This pillow is incredibly light but a little long so it’s nice if you like hugging your pillows. I’d say this is a luxury backpacking item but it’s worth the space!

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Cinch: I’ve seen many friends use this pillow and they say great things! The cinch adjustor customizes firmness for each individual’s comfort and the pillow is soft.

Sea To Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow: This is the lightweight option if that’s what you’re looking for. It is made with sleeping pad material so it’s not as comfortable.

GEAR: CAMP KITCHEN/HYDRATION

CAMP STOVE:

MSR WindBurner Stove System: I’ve used this stove for years and it’s still working like new. It is lightweight, easy to use, and boils water within minutes.

Jetboil Zip Cooking System: Although I don’t own it I’ve used it many times and can say that it is almost identical to the MSR Windburner. If either one is on sale, I’d go with the one on sale.

MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove: This is a great option for those who want a budget friendly and lightweight stove. I used this for years before I upgraded to the MSR Windburner because I wanted protection from wind but if I wanted to go super lightweight I’d pack this.

For the above cooking systems, you’ll need to buy a canister of isobutane. I usually go with MSR but any brand is fine.

WATER BOTTLES/RESERVOIRS:

Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth Bottle: I always bring a Nalgene on backpacking trips because they are super lightweight.

CamelBakCrux Water Reservoir 2L: I also always bring a water reservoir because I can slip it into my backpack and sip water whenever I need it (and not ask friends to grab my water bottle for me all day). This is also how I store more water (vs. bringing several Nalgenes).

WATER FILTERS:

Grayl UltraPress Purifier Bottle: There are so many options for purifying water out on the market today but I love this bottle! It’s great for personal use and it filters quickly (but it does require some force).

Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Filter System: This filters 4L in 2.5 minutes without any need for pumping or any effort at all. I usually bring this if I am camping with friends, which is most times.

CAMP KITCHEN:

Hydro Flask Coffee Mug: I bring this mug with me on every camping trip and use it at night when I drink tea (a great way to stay warm) and in the morning when I drink coffee. It keeps my drink hot as I take in the views—where ever I may be.

Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spork – Long: This is the only utensil I bring outside with me and the only one I need! The long handle is a game-changer when eating dehydrated food.

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press: This is definitely a luxury because the lighter option would be to use instant coffee packets.. but the coffee is just so good! I don’t bring it on every trip, but most.

Note: I don’t bring bowls into the backcountry because I eat my meals right out of the bags they come in. To me, they are a pain to wash properly with keeping LNT in mind.

FOOD AND SNACKS:

I eat dehydrated meals when I camp in the backcountry. They are easy to make, have an easy clean up (if you eat them in the bag as I do) and, if you choose correctly, they taste great. Everyone is different so you’ll need to try out a few to see which you like. I love snacking on energy bars, protein bars, nuts and seeds, and candy. In terms of electrolytes, I cannot survive without Nuun Immunity Electrolyte Tablets.

GEAR: OUTDOOR GEAR

BACKPACKING PACK:

Osprey Ariel AG 65 Pack (men’s version): I’ve used this pack for 7 years now and I love it. It is pricey though so try and snag it on a sale. I’ve seen it go on sale for 25% on holidays so keep an eye out! There are some awesome features about this pack but the most notable one is that the top ‘brain’ turns into a small day bag. This is great if you’re on an overnight or multi-day trip where you have camp set up and you want to go explore the area without taking all your gear. Another great thing about Osprey is that if something happens to your bag, they will fix (or replace) it. I will say that if you have 65L of space, you will most likely fill it, so this is your warning not to over-pack just because you have the space. I use this pack in the 55L version unless I go on a multi-day trip.

Osprey Kyte 46L Backpack (men’s version): This is a great option if you’re going for one night during the summer and can pack light. You can also use it for long day trips.

Granite Gear Crown 3 60L Backpack (men’s version): If you want a lightweight option for overnight and multi-day trips this is what you want. This bag is half as heavt as the Osprey Ariel AG 65 Pack (4lb 13.6oz). The lid is also removable like the Osprey 65 Pack. Note: I have not tested this bag myself.

HEADLAMP & LANTERN:

BioLite Head Lamp 425: I bought a version of this headlamp four years ago and have used it ever since then. It’s rechargeable, lightweight, and has many levels of brightness.

Petzel Tikka Headlamp: This is a great budget-friendly option that is almost as bright as the BioLite option (it’s 300 lumins vs 425 lumins).

Black Diamond Moji+ Lantern: To be honest, I don’t pack a lantern often because I find that my headlamp works just fine but sometimes it is nice to have to hang in the tent.

CAMP COMFORT:

Helinox Chair Zero Camp Chair: This is pure luxory. I bought this chair for a seven night trip in Mexico and it was life-changing. It’s only one pound and it’s incredibly comfortable. Would I use it on a one-night trip? I’m not sure.

Therm-a-Rest Z Seat: If you want an lighter option you can go with this seat!

EXTRAS:

Anker Power Bank: I always bring a power bank with me when I go on an overnight adventure to charge my phone, camera, and headlamp if needed.

MSR Universal Footprint 2: This foot print is for the Hubba Hubba NX 2 Tent and it helps by being an extra barrier between you and moisture. It also helps with the longeivity of your tent.

Osprey UltraLight Pack Raincover: This is necessary because you never know if the weather could turn for the worst in the mountains—they have a mind of their own! It packs down super small so I always bring it even if the forceast says clear skies. When the temperature drops, I put it on while I sleep to protect my bag from due and moisture.

Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock Trekking Poles: Hiking poles are crucical for me these days… not sure if that’s because I’m almost 30 or because I couldn’t stop using them once I tried them out for the first time. They help distribute weight and reduce the impact on your joints.

Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool: This is a handy item for repairs or day-to-day tasks to bring especially since it has a knife.

Nomadix Mini Towel: I can wrap this towel around my waist and it will go down to my knees so it’s small but I prefer this size/weight for backpacking.

Black Diamond LiteWire Carabiner: These are great to help strap things to my bag.

GEAR: PROTECTION

SAFETY:

Garmin inReach Mini: Garmin is an essential piece in backcountry safety as it allows you to get help in an emergency or to let loved ones at home that you are safe. It’s precise and comes with preloaded TOPO maps and two-way messaging. It’s more than a basic GPS with features like a digital compass, barometric altimeter, and accelerometer (which are a part of the Ten Essentials). Note: you will need to buy a subscription for the SOS and text features.

Adventure Medical Kit: This is a part of the Ten Essentials. Everyone in your group should have their own medical kit. It’s light as air and inexpensive—no excuses.

Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray: always carry bear spray (clipped to a strap where it’s easily accessible) and bear bangers (not pictured) (in the side pocket of my backpack). Bear spray is needed if you are going to be spending time where bears reside.

BearVault BV450 Food Container: I put everything that has a scent into a bear bin. It’s dangerous to leave anything that smells in the tent—this includes food, cosmetics, toiletries, lip balm, etc. I usually go the bear bin route as it’s worlds easier to use (vs. hanging a bag in a tree) to me. This one is great for a 1-2 night trip but the BearVault BV500 is bigger and can hold up to a weeks worth of food. Another option is a bear bag which I haven’t tried yet but I have heard great things from friends who own one.

INSECT AND SUN PROTECTION:

Insect Repellent: Depending on where you’re hiking and the time of year, the mosquitos may interfere with your time outdoors. A good repellent is nice to have when the bugs are bad.

Sun Bum Sunscreen: This is my favorite brand of sunscreen because it’s mineral based!

Patagonia Trad Cap: I have five of this hat in different colors. It’s that good. Another hat I wear often is the Fjallraven Helags Cap.

Sunglasses: Doesn’t matter what sunglasses you use, just make sure they are polarized.

GEAR: FOOTWEAR

BOOTS:

Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP Hiking Boots (men’s version): I have tried three brands in the last five years and the Danner Mountain 600 boots are my all-time favorite. They are incredibly comfortable, waterproof, lightweight, and stylish. That said, boots are really hard to recommend because everyone is so different. What may work for me, may not work for you.

Danner Trail 2650 GTX Hiking Shoe: (men’s version) I’ve been loving these trailrunners for more low-imapct or easy trails. They feel more lightweight yet sturdy enough for hiking. I also wore these on a 7-day packrafting trip in Mexico so they’ve been put to use!

SANDALS:

Chaco Mega Z Cloud Sandal (men’s version): This sandal is my go-to if I want to hike around camp a bit because of the great support and traction. Something to consider is that this particular Chaco has a little bit more weight to it because of the thick rubber sole.

Teva Original Universal Sandal (men’s version): This is a more lightweight option than the Chacos but they have less grip. If you can’t see yourself exploring much past camp these are great.

Columbia Alava Sandal: This is a more affordable option that may not have the best support for hiking but would be great for camp.

GEAR: CLOTHING

BASE LAYERS:

Kari Traa Rose Long-Sleeve Crew: Baselayers are key for keeping you comfortable while wicking moisture as you sweat and one set goes a long way. My favorite merino baselayer is the You really can’t go wrong with any of their gear. Here are baselayer leggings to make a really cute matching set.

Smartwool Classic Merino Crew: Smartwool is another really great brand for baselayers that will not let you down.

BRAS/TOPS:

Long-lined Sports Bras: I tend to hike in long-lined sports bras when it’s warm out. I like bras like the lululemon Align Bra, Glyder Scupt Tank, and Beyond Yoga Tank Top.

Shirts: I like to wear shirts that are made with sweat-wicking fabric so that I am as comfortable as I can be while hiking. Some brands I really love are Aritizia, Vuori and Patagonia.

FLEECES:

I always bring two warm layers with me on every camping adventure—even in the summer months—and one of those layers is a fleece. Here are the styles I love:

• Patagonia Microdini Half-Zip Fleece (men’s version)
• Patagonia Retro Pile Marsupial Pullover (men’s version)
• Patagonia Better Sweater (men’s version)

INSULATED JACKETS:

The second warm layer I bring is an insulated down jacket. There are so many options for insulated jackets out there… but these are some of my favorites. They are an investment but they’ll hopefully last you for many adventures to come.

• Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket (men’s version)
• Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie (men’s version)
• Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket (men’s version)

RAIN JACKET:

A lot of hiking destinations mean mountains which means… rain. So make sure that you have a great rain jacket to help you stay dry while you’re out adventuring. I have used some mediocre (and less expensive) rain jackets throughout the last decade and they have done the trick but none have performed like my Arc’teryx Jacket. It’s one of the expensive pieces of gear I’ve ever purchased though so while it was 100% worth it I’d only go for it if you’re an avid outdoorswomen (or outdoorsmen).

• Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket (men’s version)
• Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket (men’s version)
• Rab Kinetic 2.0 Jacket (men’s version)

LEGGINGS/SHORTS:

You don’t really need anything fancy here—wear anything you have that is quick-drying! Here are some of my favorites:

• Patagonia Pack Out Tights
• Glyder Sultry Legging
• Outdoor Research Ferrosi 5in Short
• Patagonia Baggies 5″ Short

HIKING PANTS:

Arc’teryx Gamma Pant (men’s version): I feel like I can move the most in these hiking pants. The soft-shell fabric resists wind and water, provides light insulation, and is stretchy for freedom of movement. They are my current favorite.

Fjallraven Nikka Curved Trouser (men’s version): I love these hiking pants when I want a bit more coverage, warmth, and protection. They are a bit too long for me but I’ve heard that if you take them into a Fjallraven store they will hem them for free or you can buy a short version.

Kari Traa Ane Hiking Pant: These are great pant that is more lightweight than the Fjallraven option. I haven’t tried these pants yet but I want to—some friends have shared that they love them.

SOCKS & BEANIE:

I love both Smartwool Performance Hike Light Crew and Smartwool Classic Hike Light Cushion Crew Sock. Quality socks are important and while they may seem pricey, you only need a few and they’ll last for a long time. Any beanie works but I love beanies by Coal and Haddock Headwear.

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