Ultralight backpacking lets you hike faster and farther, but don’t forget safety. A proper gear list is important so you don’t forget anything important.
The Ten Essentials
For safety, survival and basic comfort:
1. Navigation
2. Sun Protection
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Sunglasses
3. Insulation
- Shirt
- Pants
- Jacket
- Hat
- Vest
- Gloves
4. Illumination
- Flashlight
- Headlamp
- Extra batteries
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire
- Matches or lighter
- Waterproof container
- Fire starter
7. Repair kit and tools
- Knife or multi-tool
- Kits for stove, mattress; duct tape strips
8. Nutrition
- Extra day’s supply of food
9. Hydration
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Water filter or other treatment system
10. Emergency Shelter
(listed lightest to heaviest)
- Reflective blanket
- Bivy
- Tarp
- Sleeping bag
- Tent