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What to bring

(For Backpacking and Camping)

BENNY K’S PACKING LIST 🐻

 

Take this with a grain of salt - I’m a fairly light packer, so don’t be afraid to add any other items you think are necessary.

(Note: for beginners, you probably don't have everything here. Just do your best, substitute items where required, and if you need to borrow or rent (1) ask in #gearask on our Slack or (2) check out the Gear Rentals Page)

 

ABSOLUTE ESSENTIALS FOR EVERYONE UNLESS YOU'RE CRAZY 

  • Backpack

    • For backpacking, a real backpacking pack is recommended (however, for a 1-night trip it you may get by w/a basic backpack)

  • Sleeping bag

  • Ground pad

  • Sufficient Clothing (see below)

  • Hat

  • Sunscreen

  • At least 2 1-liter water bottles (or a 2L+ bladder)

 

STRONGLY SUGGESTED​

  • Headlamp (and extra batteries)

  • Bowl and spoon

  • Sunglasses

  • Hand sanitizer - other people probably have this, but getcha own ya mooch!

  • Toothbrush/toothpaste

 

ESSENTIAL GROUP GEAR (bring if you have)

* = recommended but optional

  • Trail map and permit (when required)

  • Navigation (compass, GPS, phone)*

  • First aid kit

  • Water filtration or purification

    • gravity filter, pump filter, aqua mira, lifestraw, etc.

  • Shelter: tents, bivies, tarps

  • Stoves and cooksets

  • Trowel and toilet paper

  • Pocket knife*

  • Bear can (when required)

  • Extra paracord for hanging bear bags and other random stuff*

  • Lighter or matches

  • Food obvi

 

CLOTHES

Really depends on the weather. This list is for summer camping, 40+ degrees or so

* = recommended but optional

  • 2 shirts (preferably at least 1 long sleeve) 

  • Pants

    • For backpacking, go as light as possible-- hiking pants/zip-offs are the best. Avoid jeans!

  • Shorts* 

  • 2 pairs of socks (preferably long wool ones)

  • 2 pairs of underwear*

  • Hiking boots or trail runners

  • Sandals or flip flops for camp* 

  • Sweatshirt/warm jacket

  • Rain jacket or poncho* 

  • Beanie or similar and gloves*

  • Long underwear* 

  • Bandanna* (my favorite item)

  • Mosquito net (for face)* -- put over hat

 

OTHER NICE/ FUN THINGS TO HAVE 

  • Light camping mug

  • Rain pants

  • Hiking poles 

  • Playing cards 

  • Book 

  • Fishing pole (get those permits though!)

That’s it y’all! Happy camping!

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