This post is intended for both newcomers to backpacking and avid gear enthusiasts (like myself). It aims to provide a thorough explanation of all the necessary and optional equipment required for your upcoming backcountry expedition, including the gear I personally use and where to purchase it.
Over the course of multiple nights in the backcountry and numerous days on the trail, I have acquired a considerable amount of knowledge through firsthand experience. Through trial and error, I have gained insights into what is effective and what is not in the backcountry. Presently, I am sharing all of this information with you!
In this post, I will discuss gears that are ideal for your next adventure as they possess several desirable qualities including high-quality, functionality, compactness, lightness, and cost-effectiveness (mostly).
Prior to delving into the topic, it is essential to emphasize the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and the significance of being well-equipped for adverse conditions. Take the time to go through this article, ensure you have all the necessary gear, and acquaint yourself with the terrain you will be traversing or camping in prior to settling down for the night.
Hiking Gear List
Hiking Compass and Map
One of the most important ten essentials for hiking is a hiking compass and a physical map. Prior to embarking on the trail, it is crucial to study the map and familiarize yourself with the process of using a compass.
Hiking Boots
In my opinion, while every gear for backcountry camping holds significance, footwear stands out as one of the utmost crucial items to bring along. Walking in shoes that are uncomfortable, wet, or do not fit properly can be extremely unpleasant, and this is particularly true when embarking on a 40km+ trek while carrying a 25lbs+ load on your back.
To provide you with a starting point, I will direct you to this guide from REI that explains the process of selecting a hiking boot. This resource is particularly useful for beginners as it helps acquaint them with the various features available in different boot styles.
Hiking Socks
Proper socks are crucial for backpacking, just like proper shoes. Having a suitable pair of hiking socks is essential as it can greatly impact your backpacking experience. I usually carry two pairs specifically for hiking, in case one becomes damp, and an additional thermal pair for sleeping. The thermal socks consistently provide warmth and comfort to my feet during the night.
When selecting hiking socks, it is important to consider the height and level of padding. This ultimately depends on personal preference, but I personally prefer crew length socks with maximum cushioning. Both the height and padding contribute to preventing blisters and skin abrasions during lengthy hikes.
The hiking socks that I wear are from the brand Smartwool. They are known for being long-lasting, cozy, and available in various enjoyable colors and designs.
Personal Locator Beacon
One of the most effective methods to ensure your safety during hiking is to purchase a PLB. This amazing two-way satellite device allows you to communicate via text even when there is no cellular service, send an SOS signal in times of emergency, and track your hiking journey on your phone. However, it does come with a drawback: the price is quite high and you are required to pay a monthly subscription fee. Nevertheless, the peace of mind it provides is invaluable to me.
Sunscreen
Ensuring sun protection is essential and should not be taken lightly, especially in desert climates, as part of the ten essentials.
Trekking Poles
The question that arises is whether or not to possess trekking poles.
The question of whether or not trekking poles are necessary has provoked a great deal of discussion, and in my opinion, it varies from person to person. Personally, I find myself utilizing trekking poles on challenging lengthy trails due to the less-than-ideal state of my knees and ankles.
Day Pack Rain Cover
If you don’t already have a rain cover for your backpack, ensure to purchase one before going hiking. Otherwise, there is a risk of your lunch sandwich getting wet.
Headlamp/Extra Batteries
When it comes to day hikes, a headlamp is essential. Safety is important to me, so one of the first outdoor purchases I made was a headlamp. They are lightweight and easy to pack. There have been occasions when I have underestimated the duration of a hike, but thanks to my headlamp, I have always managed to safely find my way out of the trail.
Camera
While a camera is not required, I always make sure to have one with me. I seldom use my phone to take pictures. When capturing landscape photos, a phone cannot fully capture the beauty of the view. Therefore, I usually carry expensive camera equipment while hiking. However, it is important to consider that this may add considerable weight to your backpack. Personally, I don’t mind carrying heavy gear. If you are seeking a beginner camera, the Sony A6000 is a fantastic option.
Knife
Among the ten essentials, I always have a knife with me as a precautionary measure for emergencies. Fortunately, I have never encountered a situation where I needed to utilize it.
Backpack
When it comes to backpacks, there are some essential features I need, including numerous pockets, multiple ways to access the contents, a mesh back panel for ventilation, external straps, and compartments or straps specifically designed for a sleeping bag. Additionally, I prefer a backpack that is around 65L in size. It is not necessary to fill the entire bag to reach this capacity, but having the extra space is beneficial for extended backpacking trips or traveling with a fully loaded backpack.
There are several backpacking brands available, each with their own unique offerings. Both MEC (CAD) and REI (US) have a tool on their website which allows you to compare specifications, weight, and other features of multiple bags simultaneously. My recommended brands for backpacking are Osprey and Gregory, as they specialize in backpacks and have expertise in this area. While there are other brands available, Osprey and Gregory are known for their proficiency.
Hydration Reservoir
Maintaining hydration is crucial for every hiking trip. When properly hydrated, you experience improved well-being, enhanced mobility, and reduced bodily discomfort. In my initial hiking season, I utilized a metal water bottle that was both heavy and inconvenient.
My hiking life was changed forever (I’m not even being dramatic here) when I invested in a hydration reservoir. This is because the reservoir provides convenience, allowing me to drink at least 5 times more water than before.
I possess the 2L Hydrapak, which features a shapeshifter function and is highly reliable in terms of leak prevention. During every hike, I consume a minimum of 2L of water, resulting in noticeable improvements in my well-being.
Choosing a Tent
When it comes to selecting a tent, the abundance of styles, features, sizes, and prices can make it a bewildering task. Like any other backpacking equipment, the ultimate choice depends on individual preferences. To aid you in this process, REI has devised a guide to assist you in determining which backcountry tent will cater to your requirements most effectively.
When considering a backpacking tent for the Rockies, there are a few extremely simple factors you should search for.
- 2 person in size, unless you’re an ultralight backpacker.
- Small and lightweight (pay attention to the packaged weight), but also durable. I always recommend reading reviews to find out about weather and waterproofing
- 3 or at least 4 season; these ones are warmer and more durable which is exactly what you want for camping in the Rockies.
- Mesh windows or panels for ventilation.
- Additional convenient things to look for: exterior vestibule, interior pockets, 2 doors
