Gear List

Below is the multi-day backpacking gear list which I use when packing for most of my trips. This is meant as a guide to help others create their own gear lists. What gear you take totally depends on your own comfort level, your objective, trip duration, etc. Owning the gear is one thing, but take the time to learn how to use it all properly! Don't just go to MEC, spend $$$ on brand new gear end expect to be able to survive anything. Expensive equipment is not a replacement for proper trip planning and back country skills.

11 Essentials

This has been modified from North Shore Rescues 10 essentials list.
  1. Headlamp and spare batteries
  2. Whistle / signaling device
  3. Spare warm clothing
  4. Enough water and food for your trip, plus spare
  5. Communication (cell phone, InReach, satellite phone). Fully charged!
  6. Identification
  7. Fire starter kit
  8. Knife / multitool
  9. Emergency shelter (tarp, space blankets, or your tent if camping)
  10. First aid kit - Take a wilderness first aid course!
  11. Navigation (map, compass, GPS)

Clothing - AVOID COTTON!

  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Hiking socks & spare
  • Hiking pants or shorts
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirt
  • Fleece / mid-layer / puffy
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof pants
  • Sun hat / glasses
  • Touqe
  • Gloves
  • Buff

Hiking Equipment

  • Hiking poles
  • Backpack (size depends on length of trip)
  • Gaiters
  • Helmet for scrambles

Camping Equipment

  • Sleeping bag
  • Thermarest
  • Inflatable pillow (or use fleece)
  • Flipflops
  • Tent & repair kit
  • Bear hang kit (20m cord, 2 carabiners)
  • Book / cards / games

Cooking

  • Stove and gas
  • Mug, bowl, spork
  • Wash kit (optional depending on what you cook)

Misc

  • Sunscreen
  • Toilet kit (toilet paper, trowel, hand sanitizer)
  • Aqua tabs / water purification
  • Toothpaste / toothbrush
  • Ear plugs if camping with a snorer
  • Spare shoe laces
  • Camera, spare batteries, lenses, etc.

Winter / Cold Weather

  • Additional merino base layers for sleeping
  • Snowshoes or skis and skins
  • Extra warm layers, socks, etc.
  • Hand warmers
  • Avalanche gear (transceiver, probe, shovel)

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