Preparation for Hiking & Backpacking

Organize. Optimize for Weight. Compress for Size. Check Expiration on Food and First Aid Items. Secure standard items such as keys, wallet, and phone. Inform someone of your trip.


24-Hr Prep:

Drink Well
Eat Well
Sleep Well
Stretch Well

Prepare mind and body to make trip safe and enjoyable. Secure normal carry items such as keys, wallet, and phone.


Hiking:

Backpack 40L+ min
Trek Poles (balance on rough terrain, ease tension on knees, barrier for threats, and crutch or splint for injury)


Backpacking:

Tent/Hammock
Sleep Bag
Sleep Pad
Sleep Pillow


Clothes:

Socks
Shoes
Pants
Belt
Shirts
Fleece
Poncho
Hat
Gloves

Extra socks and safety shirt. Adjust for weather. Minimize cotton (consider nylon, polyester, spandex, and fleece).


Food:

Nutrition Bars, Nuts, Chips, Jerky, Fruit, Veg, Salt
Gatorade, Water (drinking and cleaning)
Water Filter, Tablets

Avoid foods normally not eaten to avoid reactions. If necessary take a laxative 2 days before trip.


Hygiene:

Napkins
Antiseptic Wipes
Mouth Wash


Medicine:

Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Antihistamine


First Aid:

Wilderness Guide
Medical Gloves
Gauze Pad Non-Stick
Medical/Athletic Tape
Ointment
Burn Cream
Irrigation Syringe
Band-Aids
Butterfly Stitch
Eye Drops
Pocket Blanket
Pocket Poncho
Moleskin


Safety:

Knife/Multitool
Compass
Topographic Map
Flash Light/Headlamp
USB Charger/Batteries
Whistle
Waterproof Matches


Misc:

Sun Block
Bug Spray
Head Net
Scissors
Tweezers
Needles
Safety Pins
Paper Clips
String/Paracord/Rope
Rubber Bands
Bandana