Backpacking Gear

Backpacking Gear
Copyright 2006 Niche Empire

Backpacking Gear is what makes a backpacker. It is very important to know your gears. Your gears will be your home away from home. Before jumping to your backpacking adventure, look at the checklist below and review your gears:

1.      Backpack

There are two main backpack designs: internal frame and external frame.

Internal frame backpacks: keep the weight closer to the body and hence help provide better balance; have more internal volume than an external frame pack; have fewer places to snag; and cost about 50 to 100 percent more than an external. Climbers, airline travelers and skiers are more likely to find the benefits of an internal frame pack worth the extra money.

External frame backpacks: are more comfortable to wear since your back gets air circulation; weigh a little less; and cost less. Hikers usually pick external frame packs.

2.      Rain Cover for Pack

Most packs are moderately rain resistant just as they are and are adequate for the light rainfall typical in most desert areas. If you are going to the Sierras, Yosemite or other heavy rain area, a rain cover is necessary. Ones that cover the pack and hiker are recommended.

3.     Tent or Bivy Sack with poles and stakes

For all but winter camping a "three season" tent is fine. Winter camping requires a "four season" tent. Be sure to bring the poles and stakes also.

A bivy (bivouac) sack is suitable for most fair weather uses in Southern California. Be sure it is roomy and does not compress your sleeping bag. Otherwise, some of your bag's insulation qualities will be lost. Be sure to get a bivy with mosquito netting. Those with a pole to prevent the netting from lying on your face are nice too.

4.     Ground cloth

A ground cloth is a moisture barrier sheet.

5.      Gear repair & sewing kit

Bring a repair kit for the pack, tent, clothing, etc.

1.      Sleeping bag in waterproof stuff sack
2.      Sleeping pad
3.      Pillow

9.     Chair, sit pad or sleeping-pad chair kit

10.     Stove, wind shields, stove repair kit and fuel

11.     Food

Some freeze-dried foods can be bought in your local grocery store if you search for them. Dehydrated eggs, powdered milk, dry meat (like beef jerky), oatmeal, ramen noodles, instant mashed potatoes, dried fruit, etc. can all be found at most regular grocery stores. Other items with a little water in them are OK to pack too. Beans and rice can be mostly cooked, drained and packaged for a trip. Tofu comes in plastic wrap, but needs some serious spices later to make it palatable. Tortillas and other breads are good.

12.      Bear Proof Canister

The containers are a heavy duty, hard black plastic with a small lid opening. A couple of flush screws secure the lid. The smaller containers can be stuffed enough for 3 - 4 person-days of food without much trouble. A larger container suitable for 5 - 8 person-days is also available. Be sure to put all scented items in there, not just food. Things like trash, sunscreen, etc. should also be placed in containers.

13.     Cook set and utensils

14.     Oven Bags

15.     Liquid biodegradable soap and pot scrubber

16.     Food / Scented Items Bag

17.     Candle Lantern with extra candles

18.     String

About 50 feet of string is useful for tying things in camp.

19.     Extra batteries and solar battery charger

1. Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
2. Small towel

23.     Other personal items

24.     Camping or fire permits, if appropriate

25.     Fishing gear and permits, if appropriate

After answering this checklist and you have checked them out, 100%, and then you are ready to GO AND BACKPACK YOUR WAY TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS!