How to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike: Packing List & Tips (2023)

The primary function of a sleeping pad is to minimize conductive heat loss. It’s particularly important to have one, especially when it’s cold outside because neither the shelter nor the sleeping bag will help you feel warm enough if the shelter floor is cold or covered with snow. In addition to insulation, sleeping pads also enhance comfort by providing cushioning for a more restful night’s sleep.

We recommend using a 4-season sleeping pad like the Klymit Insulated Static V. With an R-value of 4.4 (any sleeping pad with an R-value of 3 or higher is suitable for cold weather) and weighing around 25 oz (about 700 g), it offers great value for your money. If you prefer a lighter option, consider the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. It weighs just over a pound for the largest version (specifically, 1 lb 1 oz or 480 g; 13 oz or 370 g for the regular size), making it a popular choice among ultralight enthusiasts. Note that the Therm-a-Rest model is more expensive, costing more than twice the price of the Klymit Insulated Static V. Keep in mind that lighter gear often comes with a higher price tag. Anyway, choosing lighter gear has its trade-offs and costs.

#3 Shelter

Your shelter must protect you from precipitation, wind, and insects. Depending on factors like the weather, location, and your hiking style, you have options such as a tent (recommended for most backpackers), a tarp system, or a hammock.

If you’re looking for a reliable and reasonably-priced tent, we suggest considering the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+. It offers great value for its performance. An even cheaper option is the REI Co-op Trailmade 2 tent. This 2-person tent is suitable for 3-season and it is definitely a must-see as it has one of the best if not the best price-to-quality ratios on the market today.

For those seeking top-notch quality, Big Agnes is known for producing some of the best tents on the market. Their Copper Spur HV UL design is no exception.

#4 Food

During hiking, your body burns a significant amount of calories. On average, a 70 kg person burns between 430 and 440 calories per hour, while a 90 kg person burns around 550 calories. Therefore, you need some source of energy and the best one is a food rich in carbs, fats, and sugar. In a highly active lifestyle, such kind of a diet provides much-needed energy that few other foods can match. For your backpacking trip, you can prepare a food packing list according to your taste. Choose food that you want to eat because it tastes good and not because someone else has recommended it.

Before planning your backcountry menu, it’s important to think about the weight and volume of the food, the duration of your trip, the destination you’re heading to, and the availability of water and fuel for food preparation on the trail.

Next, it’s time to think about the specific foods you’ll bring. It’s important to consider the weight, nutritional value, and perishability of different food options, as well as your own food preferences, any special dietary needs you may have, and pack space. Additionally, take into account the environmental conditions you’ll be facing and whether you’ll be hiking alone or with a group. Remember that what you eat directly impacts your energy levels, strength, health, ability to think clearly, and even your mood and attitude toward others. Try to balance your nutritional needs with what’s practical for your trip.

Well, still wondering what to eat on the trail? Here’s a list of foods to give you some ideas for your meal plan. These options provide a mix of energy, nutrition, and convenience:

• Cereals
• Raisins
• Oatmeal
• Nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, etc.)
• Trail mix
• Bagels
• Cheese
• Tuna
• Chicken
• Salami
• Pasta
• Rice
• Bulgur
• Beans
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Peanut butter
• Crackers
• Energy bars
• Cookies
• Candies

It’s also a good idea to have something to drink other than water. Consider packing items like cocoa, tea, drink mixes, powdered milk, or hot chocolate.

When planning your meals, it’s important to estimate the number of calories you’ll need to fuel your trip in the backcountry. Divide these calories into ration periods, so you have a rough idea of how much food you’ll need each day. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to take some extra meals to be able to fuel properly in case something unexpected happens. You can also check out this five-day backpacking meal plan. It provides around 3500 calories per day from 900-1000 g of food.

#5 Cookware

Cookstove (and enough fuel), cook pot, food jar, and spoon. Having the ability to eat hot food can provide a significant psychological boost, especially in cold and wet weather. While it may add some extra weight to your pack, carrying a stove, cookware, and fuel is often well worth it.

If you’re in need of a reliable stove for your outdoor adventures, consider the MSR PocketRocket. This affordable and lightweight burner is suitable for backpacking, camping, and travel. It’s compact, easy to set up and operate, and works efficiently even in windy conditions. It’s a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts. Another excellent option to consider is the SOTO WindMaster Stove with 4Flex. This lightweight backpacking stove offers great performance and reliability. It’s designed to handle various weather conditions and provides efficient cooking capabilities.

Don’t forget to bring an ample supply of water. Depending on your location, water availability can range from a minor concern to a critical factor. In some situations, you may need to carry ten or more liters of water, while in others, just a liter or two may suffice. Water is the most essential nutrient in the backcountry, as you can only survive for a few days without it. Water plays several crucial roles in your body, including maintaining body temperature, transporting nutrients, and eliminating waste products. Insufficient water intake can lead to various symptoms such as lethargy, headaches, cramps, stomach pain, disorientation, fatigue, and even exhaustion.

The amount of water you require can vary based on factors such as physical activity, environmental conditions, food intake, and water loss through perspiration and urination. Normally, a person consuming 2000 calories per day typically needs at least 2-3 liters of water. If your calorie intake increases to 4000 calories per day, you should aim for 4-6 liters of water. Keep in mind that adequate hydration is even more important at high altitudes and in the desert. In these conditions, you may need 5-7 liters or more of water to prevent altitude sickness and compensate for excessive water loss due to sweating and urination.

Drink fluids regularly and don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Feeling thirsty means that the process of dehydration has already started. You are more prone to dehydration when hiking in winter and at elevation. Dehydration can occur without you even realizing it, especially in cold weather when people tend to drink less than they should. Not eating properly can also contribute to dehydration because food contains water.

A portable water filter is an indispensable tool for ensuring that you have clean drinking water during your hike into the backcountry. Even if a stream appears clean, it can still be contaminated with harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Simply filling up your water bottle with water from a nearby stream is not a recommended approach.

Boiling water is an effective method for water purification, but it can be impractical due to the large amount of fuel required to boil enough water for a backpacking trip. Therefore, a portable water filter is a much more practical solution. It allows you to filter out impurities and pathogens, ensuring that the water you consume is clean and safe. By using a water filter, you can confidently source water from natural water sources along your hike, providing you with a continuous supply of clean drinking water.

#7 Trekking poles (for additional support and stability)

They will reduce the strain and force of gravity on your legs when hiking. Most serious hikers consider them a critical piece of equipment. The main function of hiking sticks is to provide traction, stability, and additional support on slippery and uneven surfaces (such as snow, ice, wet grass, mud, and scree) when crossing streams and rivers or for canyon hikes. Besides, trekking poles are multifunctional as they can be used for pitching tents, defense against wild animals, retrieving bear bags or as medical splints in emergencies. Learning how to use trekking poles properly is highly recommended if you want to take full advantage of having them.

Raincoat or a loose-fitting poncho can be added to your backpacking packing list with essentials depending on the weather forecast and the hiking location. Ponchos allow lots of air circulation and are more convenient than raincoats in most cases. Moreover, they are lightweight, compact, and much cheaper and are perfect for hiking in the fog and drizzle. Ponchos serve multiple purposes and can be used as a backpack rain cover or as a protective layer for your sleeping bag during heavy rain, functioning as a makeshift tarp shelter.

Another option to consider is using an umbrella, which offers exceptional rain protection and additional benefits. Umbrellas provide superior ventilation compared to rain jackets and ponchos, allowing for better airflow. They can also come in handy during sunny weather, providing shade while you sit or walk.

#9 First aid kit and repair kit

We recommend that you build up your first aid kit. Among the essentials in your first aid kit, you should include some analgesics/antibiotics/anaphylaxis (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen or Aspirin, Sting relief pad, etc.) to treat headaches, pain, bacterial infections, inflammations, and severe allergic reactions. Bandages, antiseptic towelettes, blister care pads, 2″x2″ and 3″x3″ gauze sponges are used to cover small and larger wounds, absorb and control bleeding, cleanse the skin, and cover abrasions and burns. Some other important items include a safety whistle, water-purifying tablets, and a fire starter.

If you don’t have enough time or desire to collect everything you would need in an emergency, we recommend buying a pre-assembled first aid kit. There are many good options such as Everlit Emergency Trauma Kit shown in the picture above. This kit contains not only first aid kit supplies but also some extra items such as a compass, safety whistle, paracord bracelet, emergency blanket, flashlight, and a fire starter.

Your repair kit should include at least extra shoelaces, duct tape, and a multi-purpose tool.

You will need to have a map and a compass to orient yourself. Among the worst-case scenarios when in the outdoors is getting lost and not having means to orient, especially if the place is totally unfamiliar to you. A light and inexpensive compass can perform most of the functions that a more expensive compass can. So, if you’re satisfied with the basic features, a budget-friendly compass will suffice. However, if you require additional features and a compass with a glowing bezel for easy reading at night, it’s advisable to invest in a high-quality compass designed for serious outdoor navigation. The SUUNTO MC-2 is an excellent option for those who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their outdoor adventures.

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Sunglasses, sunscreen with UPF, and lip balm will help you prevent sunburn. Get a pair of decent polarized sunglasses that won’t break easily like the Oakley Sutro. They are lightweight sunnies built with the thought of providing travelers with everything they’d need from a pair of sunglasses.

Taking some precautions in hot conditions is reasonable but don’t underestimate the sun when hiking at altitude either. As a matter of fact, the UV radiation at 1000 m above sea level is up to 20% higher than the radiation at sea level. Generally, the UV radiation increases by up to 20% for every 1000 m above the sea. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can result in sunburns and various conditions such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and snow blindness. Hence, it is crucial to protect your eyes from sunlight and snow glare by wearing glasses with mountaineering lenses. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on functionality, the Julbo Camino Mountain sunglasses are worth considering for your mountain adventures.

#13 Flashlight or headlamp (preferably compact and durable light)

Having a reliable source of light is a must when being outdoors at night. We recommend a tough and compact flashlight that is both durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your pocket wherever you go. A great option to consider is the Olight Perun 2, which not only serves as a flashlight but can also be used as a headlamp when needed. Alternatively, high-quality headlamps are an excellent choice as they are lightweight, functional, and come with useful features to enhance your night vision.

#14 Bear spray

Bear spray is a must for self-defense in bear country. Exploring and camping in bear country can be exciting but also very dangerous unless you hike responsibly without underestimating the risks and dangers of sharing the same territory with bears. Just follow some basic rules for safe hiking in bear country and you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering bears up close.

#15 Mobile phone (in a shock and waterproof case)

The shockproof and waterproof case is a valuable accessory that ensures the safety and security of your mobile phone, particularly during challenging outdoor activities such as hiking steep terrains or crossing rivers. With this protective case, you can have peace of mind knowing that your phone is shielded from potential impacts and water damage, allowing you to fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about the safety of your device. Phone holsters are another excellent option for carrying safely your phone on and off the trail.

#16 Camera (rugged and waterproof)

#17 Wallet and documents

Don’t forget to pack your wallet with some cash for smaller expenses and debit/credit cards for larger expenses, along with all the necessary documents such as your ID and any required permits for your backpacking trip. A low-profile wallet that’s reasonably light and can comfortably accommodate your essentials will suffice for most trips in the wilderness. Having these items readily accessible will ensure that you are prepared for any financial needs or identification requirements that may arise during your wilderness adventure.

Download: Packing for a Multi-Day Hike: Cheat Sheet

Backpacking checklist of the essential and extra stuff in PDF format

In addition to the essentials, it’s a good idea to consider carrying some extra items that may become essential depending on the season, location, and your personal preferences. These additional items can greatly enhance your backpacking experience.

Hiking packing list – extra stuff

Gaiters can be of good use depending on the season and terrain. Depending on the season and weather conditions, gaiters might be part of your hiking list with essentials.

Signal mirror is a simple but effective tool (glass signal mirrors have superior reflectivity) to signal your location in case of an emergency.

Insect repellents offer long-lasting protection against buzzy and bloodsucking insects. Be aware that some repellents like DEET can have a harmful effect on plastic and synthetic gear components so be careful.

Book or a Kindle (and a charger) – especially useful if you prefer solo hiking as you’ll have a ton of spare time. Having a real paperback book(s) in your backpack while traveling is great but unfortunately, it is easy to damage a book in the wilderness.

Headphones/earphones may not be an essential part of most people’s hiking packing list but are extremely useful if you want to listen to music from your iTunes library or your phone. Keep in mind that you should avoid using them when in the mountain because you won’t be able to hear if there’s a landslide or an avalanche (and this might be deadly).

Notebook and pen

GPS devices make sure that you don’t get lost during hiking and backpacking trips in unfamiliar areas. Set up is easy and you can track your distance, and on dangerous mountain ridges in low visibility.

Binoculars

Multi-function watch with an altimeter can be an essential item on your backpacking packing list. You can use it to track your progress and stay safe when hiking, running or traveling in mountainous regions.

Toilet trowel

Bear canister is very important for hiking and camping in bear country. Proper storage of food, toiletries, and medications is essential for your safety when traveling in bear country. Here come bear-resistant containers and reusable storage bags.

How to pack a hiking backpack?

Organize your hiking clothes and gear into logical groups and separate them into stuff sacks. When you start unpacking at your campsite or along the trail, it’s important to ensure that the items you’ll need are grouped together and easily accessible. This will prevent a chaotic “pack explosion” when you’re searching for a specific item buried deep within your backpack. Keeping your hiking pack neat and well-organized is key, as it allows you to have a clear idea of where everything is located.

Here’s how to pack a hiking backpack:

• Place the heaviest items (such as food, water, and stove fuel) against your back and tighten the pack’s compression straps to balance the pack. You can place softer items like tents, between the heavier items to fill gaps and to prevent shifting.
• Put bulky items like a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and clothes you will sleep in on the bottom. This arrangement serves as a shock absorber and creates a soft cushion for the rest of your gear to sit on top of. By doing so, you ensure a more comfortable and balanced load while hiking.
• Keep spare clothes near the top of your pack for easy access without having to unpack other gear. Include essentials like an insulation jacket, a rain jacket, and pants in this accessible section. Additionally, keep important items like your first aid kit, water filter, and personal hygiene supplies such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a bag for packing out used toilet paper within easy reach. This ensures that you can readily grab them whenever needed during your backpacking trip.
• Keep items you’ll use often during the day within reach. These include snacks, maps, cameras, water bottles, sunglasses, and other essentials. Convenient locations for storing these items can be hipbelt pockets or side pockets, where you can retrieve them without the need to take off your backpack.

Source: thegearhunt.com

Pack weight and terrain features

In general, avoid heavy packs full of irrelevant things and aim to keep your gear weight between 15-20 kg, including your food and water supplies, along with the clothes you’re wearing. On rare occasions, you’ll have to carry a heavier load. Bring enough water, especially when hiking in arid regions since water is, by far, the most important thing you’ll carry with you on a hike in an arid environment. If you’re traveling with a group, sharing camping and cooking equipment will reduce individual pack weight slightly. Specialized and warmer gear for winter conditions will add to it. Keep in mind that the perception of weight can be subjective and influenced by factors such as terrain, weather conditions, physical fitness, and even personal hiking experience.

Be conservative in planning your hike and gather as much information as possible. Sorting through the details will help you determine what is truly important and what can be disregarded for your specific hike. Your hiking adventure requires careful planning, thorough preparation, self-reliance, and the ability to make sound decisions.

Mistakes to avoid: how and what not to pack for hiking

• Last-minute packing

Do the packing the day(s) before the hike to avoid forgetting some important things like a raincoat, headlamp, fire starter, etc. Novice backpackers often make the mistake to do their packing in a rush the night before a hiking trip.

• Not packing properly for the occasion

This can happen to both novice backpackers lacking experience and experienced hikers who underestimate the unpredictable weather changes in the mountains. It’s crucial, especially when ascending a mountain, to pack essentials such as a rain jacket, windbreaker, and warm clothing, even if you believe you won’t require them.

• Not bringing an extra pair of socks

Especially in cold or winter conditions, bring at least one pair of thick woolen socks (ideally two or three). These socks not only provide warmth for your feet but also have the advantage of feeling less damp when wet compared to synthetic or cotton socks. Furthermore, in extremely cold weather, you can repurpose your extra pair of socks as makeshift mittens to keep your hands warm.

• Using untested gear such as a tent or sleeping bag

This can lead to unpleasant situations where you may end up wet, cold, and shivery for days. Always test your most essential gear items before a long hiking trip. By doing so, you can ensure their reliability and make any necessary adjustments or replacements in advance.

• Overpacking

Remember that light is your friend on the trail even if you’re not an ultralighter. A heavy pack full of irrelevant things is your enemy. The best way to eliminate redundancy is to fine-tune the packing by making detailed lists of what you used and what you didn’t use during your previous hiking trips.

• Not keeping a dry set of clothes to sleep in

Staying warm and dry during your time for rest is good for both health and morale. Thus, bringing an extra set of clothes to sleep in is highly recommended.

Conclusion

The process of planning and packing for a multi-day hike is similar to what you should do before a day hike, though now it will take more time and effort. Make sure to invest in suitable hiking attire that matches the environment you’ll be hiking in. Pick up a pair of well-fitting hiking shoes, choose a comfortable hiking backpack, and create a hiking packing list so that you can start packing for your multi-day adventure. And finally, remember that good gear is not a substitute for skill. It’s far more important to have knowledge, skills, and experience than to buy only the latest high-tech designs. Even without the best gear, get outside and hike. Nature is not your adversary. It’s beautiful, and authentic, and should be treated with respect.

Do you have a backpacking packing list for multi-day hikes? Is there anything unique or specific that you include? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!