Whether you are backpacking deep in the wilderness or through a foreign country, you will need some essential pieces of gear to ensure a pleasurable experience. Although some of the gear listed will not be useful on a daily basis, it can be vital in an emergency or life-threatening situation. One of the most important things to consider when gathering your gear is weight. Pack as light as possible but never leave out any essential items to make your pack lighter.
Map and Compass
It is important to carry a detailed map of the area you will be exploring. The type of map will vary depending on whether you are in the backcountry, on designated trails or traveling through a foreign country. A compass is necessary if you are out in the backcountry and a good thing to have no matter where you are headed.
Backpack, Tent and Sleeping Bag
A good quality, lightweight backpack is necessary to carry your gear and important for your comfort. You want a pack that has a sturdy, padded waist belt to transfer weight from your shoulders to your hips and legs. You want to take a lightweight tent that is suited for the number of people that will sleep in it. Your sleeping bag should be warm enough for the conditions where you will be backpacking and made from a quick-drying material.
Water and Water Treatment
Pack and fill at least two large water bottles or one large water bladder. If you will be in the backcountry it is essential to bring some sort of purification system such as a water filter, purifier or iodine tablets. You can also boil water to assure it is safe to drink.
Food and Cooking Stove
It is important to pack slightly more food than you anticipate needing just in case you are delayed by weather or an emergency. You want to pack high energy, low weight foods. If you pack meals that require cooking you will need a backpacking stove, especially if fires are not permitted where you are going. This is not necessarily essential since you can pack foods that do not need to be cooked.
Clothing and Rain Gear
Bring clothing made of light, moisture-wicking materials. Do not bring clothes made of cotton because it absorbs moisture, can cause skin irritation and is heavy. It is important to have multiple layers of clothing including long underwear, comfortable day clothes, lightweight fleece, rain gear, warm socks, gloves and a hat. Do not forget your rain jacket and pants no matter what the weather report says.
Flashlight and Headlamp
It is a good idea to bring both a headlamp and a hand-held flashlight. Pack extra batteries and extra light bulbs, especially if you haven't replaced them recently.
Fire-starter and Matches
A fire will supply you with warmth, hot meals and drinks which are not only a luxury in the outdoors but can be a life saver in the event of hypothermia. A fire can also be used to signal for help in case of an emergency.
Knife or Multi-purpose Tool
A good knife and multi-purpose tool can be useful for food preparation, gear repairs and first aid.
First-Aid Kit
Carry a basic first-aid kit including bandages of varying sizes, moleskin, medical tape, alcohol wipes, anti-bacterial ointment, pain relievers, inflammation reducers, gloves and a CPR mask. You can buy a pre-made kit or make your own.
Sun and Bug Protection
It is important to protect your skin, eyes and lips from the sun, especially at higher elevations where the sun's rays are more intense. Carry sunblock and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher as well as sunglasses and a hat to shield your eyes and face from the sun. It is also a good idea to carry bug repellent to protect against mosquitoes, flies and other pesky insects.
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