GEAR LIST

Here’s a basic gear checklist you can use to make sure you’ve got everything you need for your trip, though it is not exhaustive! As much as you can, I recommend keeping it simple and getting the most lightweight gear you can afford and that is appropriate for the circumstances.

If you are building up your gear collection, feel free to reach out for advice - don’t hesitate to ask questions! If you’re not in the position to purchase every single item, there are a few options for renting or borrowing some gear. There’s options for gear rentals at your local outdoors stores, or outdoor chains like Sports Basement or REI.

People are often of different camps in approaching what to bring for backpacking. Some are ultralight campers, and others are comfort creatures. The lighter your pack, the more comfortable you will be as you move through the landscape, the easier you will be on your body, and the faster you will be - especially on steep inclines and challenging footing. The longer the trip, the more important it is to really consider what is going in your pack and how essential it will be. As you review the list, consider what you really need from the optional list and what you can leave out for just a few days.

BASICS:

  • Sleeping bag that is at least 30 degrees with a good few inches of loft.

  • Backpack that is large enough and adequate to carry 35 to 50 lbs., and that it fits you well and comfortably!

  • Sleeping pad. I use an inflatable + a z-rest that protects it from punctures and doubles as a seat and a yoga mat.

  • Tent or Bivy

  • Bear canister. This is required by law. Do not get a bear bag

  • Head lamp - don’t forget fresh batteries and an extra set!

  • Water purifier. I also provide this in the shared group gear if you don’t have/don’t want to carry.

KITCHEN:

  • Personal stove

  • Camp fuel: 4oz for weekend trips or 8oz for 5-7 day trips

  • Matches or lighter

  • Cook kit: Bowl that doubles as pot/pan that doubles as plate (titanium or aluminum)

  • Lightweight knife

  • Lightweight mug

  • Utensil

  • Water bottles that can fit 1-2 liters of water

  • Ziplock bag for trash. I often use one from something I consume the first day out.

CLOTHES:

Depending on the climate or time of year, some of these are more essential than others. I don’t always require a down jacket AND a fleece hoodie, and will often skip gloves unless it’s super cold out. Each person has a different built in resilience to the weather, so consider whether you run hot or cold, or are sensitive to the sun, etc. Avoid cotton fibers.

  • Hiking pants

  • Hiking shorts if hiking in over 70 degree weather

  • Socks: 3 pairs. 2 for hiking and one for sleeping in. Wool or synthetic, with optional synthetic liner socks

  • Undies: 3 pairs. 2 for hiking and one for sleeping in.

  • Bra: 1 or 2 that can double as a bathing suit top

  • Hiking long sleeve: 1.

  • Hiking tank/short sleeve: 1 or 2

  • Warm evening/sleeping long sleeve

  • Warm evening/sleeping bottoms

  • Lightweight rain jacket (optional): Check the weather a head of time to see if this is essential

  • Lightweight fleece jacket (optional): Check the weather a head of time to see if this is essential

  • Warm down jacket

  • Gloves (optional)

  • Gaiters (highly recommended for Lost Coast)

  • Hat: 2. One for sun protection, one for warmth.

  • Boots/Shoes (well-broken in). For Lost Coast recommend NO MESH due to sand.

  • Camp shoes/sandals that can also be used for water crossings.

  • Sunglasses

  • Bathing suit (optional)

HYGIENE:

  • Wet wipes (optional)

  • Sunscreen

  • Dental: Toothbrush/mini toothpaste/floss

  • Hair ties if you have long hair (an extra 1-2 can be useful)

  • Unscented chapstick with SPF

  • Biodegradable soap or hand sanitizer

  • Poop kit: I recommend a water bidet. TP must be packed out. Bring separate ziplock for TP.

  • Foot care kit with your preferred foot protection

  • Kula cloth or other pee cloth (optional)

  • Small comb (optional)

MISC:

  • Electrolytes

  • Writing instrument: 2

  • Trekking poles (highly recommmended for Lost Coast)

  • Repair kit: Tent, sleeping pad, clothing, shoes

  • Map (optional, also in group gear, but it’s always good to have)

  • First aid kit (optional, also in group gear, but it’s always good to have your own)

  • Lightweight travel yoga mat (optional, or use Z-rest)

  • Camera (optional)

  • Book/kindle (optional)

  • Day pack for High Sierra 2026 trip

  • Insect repellent. Permethrin on clothes is helpful in bad years. (optional in dry years).