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What To Pack

PACK RIGHT AND PACK LIGHT

Heavy-backpack-carried-by-man-up-mountai

The below items are needed to be successful in the backcountry. You should know, however, that people can spend lots of money on equipment, but this is not necessary. You can borrow a backpack, find clothes that do the job without buying new stuff. You can also borrow or rent boots. The most important thing is to make sure you have everything you need. 


We will have a gear check in mid-June to go over what you have already and help you find the remaining items. But start early. 


What follows are the list of items I have in my personal backpack for a 5 day High Sierra trip in the summer. The 10 essentials are indicated with a red dot. Remember-- the more you carry, the heavier your pack. Heavy = unhappy and sore. It’s a fun challenge to think through what you’ll take. Start packing! Your trail buddy, Andy

WEARING

  • Backpack, 50-70 liter capacity. I use a Gregory Baltoro 75 with great hip and spine support. Whatever your pack, make sure it’s the correct size for you. REI can fit you nicely. 

  • Underwear (pro move: start with a clean pair). If wearing garments, I like the mesh for easy drying and washing

  • Shorts (synthetic materials, no jeans/cotton)

  • Short Sleeve Shirt (synthetic)

  • Wool socks

  • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes (I prefer Zamberlan boots, but if you have a lighter pack and good feet, you can get some shoes for $80-140. Great quality boots last 10 years or more...but not if your feet are growing.)

  • Trekking poles (Old: yes. Young: not needed, but really helps me enjoy the trail. Great arm workout)

  • Hat: your hat is your signature

  • Sunscreen

  • Whistle

  • Sunglasses

CLOTHING

[All clothing should be lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying (no cotton)]

SLEEP SYSTEM

TRASH MANAGEMENT

LIGHTING

HYDRATION

KITCHEN

ENTERTAINMENT

NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT

  • Topo map(s), small version will be provided by leaders

  • Compass

FIRST AID

  • Band-aids of various sizes

  • Duct tape for blisters

PERSONAL TOILETRIES

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF 15

  • Gold bond 1 oz:  secret of the pros and your tent mates

  • Digging trowel

  • Toothbrush + paste

  • Prescription medicines if you are taking

  • Contact lenses + supplies/glasses

  • Bug repellant This is the best stuff I have found. 

  • Half roll of toilet paper or travel size tissue with small disposal bag to pack out, or biodegradable toilet paper.

  • Small comb

  • Hand sanitizer (if you must)

FOOD

  • Provisions - commonly between 2,500-3,500 calories per day (meals, snacks). These will be purchased the week before your trip with your backpacking group and leaders and divided per person. To include all the meals and snacks for the trails. 

  • Bear canister 11.5 liter capacity. Nice seat for campfire. I bring one, but we also can rent at trailhead for some of the hikes.

GROUP KITCHEN

  • 1 Canister Stove per pod of 4 (snow peak, primus)

  • 2-3 large canisters per pod of 4 on a 5 day trip

  • Cookpot + lid. This is the one I use, but may use #10 coffee can

  • Small lighter for stove

  • Biodegradable soap (optional)

  • Salt and pepper

  • Large Spoon for stirring food and serving

GROUP SHELTER

GROUP SAFETY (provided by leaders)

ALLOWED WITHIN ACCEPTED USE POLICY

  • Phone (turn on battery saver and airplane mode)

  • Power pack

FISHING GEAR

  • Rod

  • Flies, line etc

OPTIONAL ITEMS

  • Head Net (optional, for mosquitos)

  • Lotion (optional)

  • Book to read

  • Game ideas for group

NOT ALLOWED

  • Headphones (optional)

  • Illicit drugs

  • Inappropriate items not consistent with the spirit of the youth program

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Gear Introduction

What to Wear

Water Supply

In Your Backpack

Extra Gear Worth Considering

Putting The Gear In The Pack

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