How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip

If you're planning a backpacking trip, you're probably feeling excited and a little overwhelmed by everything you need to get in order for your trip. Before you embark on your backpacking adventure, it’s important that you choose a pack that’s right for you and fill it with all the gear you’ll need. Fitting everything into your backpack can be a daunting process, but by packing efficiently and only bringing the essentials, you can avoid lugging around a heavy and uncomfortable backpack during your trip.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing a Good Backpack

1
Choose a backpack size based on the length of your upcoming trip. If you’re backpacking for a week or more, get a backpack that’s at least 70 liters (18.5 gallons). If you’ll only be backpacking for a few nights, a pack in the 30-50 liter (8-13 gallons) range will work. The longer your trip, the more you’ll be packing. It’s important that you get a larger backpack if you’ll be gone for an extended period of time.^{[1]XResearch source}
- Some backpacks are measured in cubic inches. As a rule of thumb, daypacks will mostly be under 2,500 cubic inches, while weekend packs are somewhere in the 2,500-4,000 cubic inch (40 to 65 liter) range.^{[2]XResearch source}
- For week long trips, you will need around 4,000-6,000 cubic inches (65-95 liters) of space.^{[3]XResearch source}
2
Get a backpack with the right fit. Before you go backpack shopping, measure your hip size and the length of your torso. Look at the tag or product details for any backpack you're considering to find out what fit you should get based on these measurements. Some backpacks are sold in small, medium, and large sizes that correspond with different hip sizes and torso lengths.^{[4]XResearch source}
- To find your torso length, measure from the bottom of your neck to the top of your hips.^{[5]XResearch source}
- Measure your hip size by wrapping a tape measure around your hips, a little above where you wear your belts.^{[6]XResearch source}
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Internal-frame backpacks have a built-in frame that will help you keep your balance on uneven trails. They also help distribute the weight in your pack to your hips, making them easier to carry.^{[7]XResearch source}
4
Go with a frameless backpack if you want something light. Frameless backpacks are lighter than internal-frame packs because they don’t have a frame weighing them down. Choose a frameless bag if you’re concerned about your pack being too heavy to carry.^{[8]XResearch source}
- Frameless bags are usually cheaper than more advanced backpacking packs, making them a great option if you're on a budget.
5
Look for a backpack with the right features for your trip. Some backpacks are more advanced than others. The features you’ll need depend on the length of your trip and where you’ll be backpacking. Some common features to consider are:
- A mesh back panel. If you know it’s going to be hot during your trip, get a bag with a mesh back panel to prevent your back from overheating.^{[9]XResearch source}
- Extra padding. A backpack with extra padding on the straps and hip belts will help prevent you from getting sore during your trip.^{[10]XResearch source}
- A rain cover. If you’re worried about it raining during your trip, look for a backpack that comes with a rain cover. You can cover your backpack with the waterproof rain cover to keep the contents of your pack dry.^{[11]XResearch source}
You don't want your bag to tear or get soaked in the rain during your trip. Look for a bag made out of nylon, polyester, or a blend of the two.^{[12]XResearch source}
7
Borrow or buy a used backpack if you're on a budget. Ask a friend or family member if you can use their backpack for your trip if you can't afford a brand new one. You can also purchase a discounted used backpack online through websites like eBay and Craigslist. Try to find one that's the appropriate size and fit for you.
- Check that all the zippers on the backpack work and that there aren't any holes. You don't want to use a damaged backpack or your things could get lost or ruined.
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Packing Efficiently

1
Organize all your gear before you pack. Lay everything out on the floor and make sure you’re not forgetting anything. Group similar items together in piles so you can pack them together. If you have a lot of small, loose items, put them all together in a sealable bag so they’re easy to find when you need them.^{[13]XResearch source}
- For example, pack all of your bathroom stuff together so it's all in one place when you need it.
- Put loose batteries, first-aid items, and fire supplies in a sealable plastic bag so they don't get lost in your backpack.
You want to be disciplined while packing your backpack so you don't bring more than you need. Avoid packing things like hair products, large cameras, pillows (use your backpack as a pillow instead), multiple pairs of shoes, and bulky blankets. Try to be as strict as possible with what you allow yourself to pack.
3
Distribute the weight of the gear in your pack. This will make your backpack feel lighter and easier to carry. Pack your backpack so the lightest gear is at the bottom and the heaviest gear is in the middle and to the back of the bag where your back will be. Put the rest of the gear at the top of the backpack.^{[14]XResearch source}
- Pack your clothes, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag at the bottom of your backpack. Put heavier items like flashlights, cans of food, and cooking supplies at the top of your backpack.
- There are a few options for how to pack a tent inside your backpack, so your tent packing method should influence how you distribute the weight of other times across the pack.
4
Don’t overstuff your backpack. Try to keep the weight of your backpack at around 25 percent of your body weight. If you’re a more experienced backpacker, you may be fine with 30 percent. Weigh your backpack on a scale once it’s all packed. If your backpack is half your body weight, you know it’s time to cut down on some gear.^{[15]XResearch source}
- For example, if you weigh 150 pounds (68 kg), you wouldn't want the weight of your backpack to exceed 37.5 pounds (17 kg).
Put things like food, water, flashlights, rain gear, and your GPS in external pockets on your backpack or right at the top of the bag. You want these things to be easily accessible when you need them. Having to fish out your rain jacket from the bottom of your pack during a downpour won’t be fun.^{[16]XResearch source}
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Packing the Right Gear

That includes a lightweight tent and sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad. Look online or at your local sporting goods store for camping gear specifically designed for backpacking.^{[17]XResearch source}
You could use a water pump, iodine tablets, or a water bottle with a built-in filtration system to purify water on your trip. Make sure you read the instructions for your system carefully and check its function before heading out into the wild. Choose a system that filters out bacteria and living organisms as well as sediment.^{[18]XResearch source}
3
Bring enough food for your trip and utensils to eat it with. Calculate how many meals you’ll need on your trip and plan accordingly. Pack lightweight foods that are healthy and contain a lot of protein, like energy bars, trail mix, meat jerky, and dehydrated foods. Avoid packing foods that are bulky or expire quickly.^{[19]XResearch source}
- Don’t forget to bring supplies to start a fire with. Pack a lighter and some matches in a waterproof bag or container so you can start a fire if you’re camping out for the night.
Make sure you have a backup on your trip in case your GPS stops working. Pack a compass, a map of the area you'll be traveling through, and printed copies of any trail maps you find online for specific trails you'll be taking.^{[20]XResearch source}
For a backpacking trip, a bright headlamp is the lightest, most practical option. If you are willing to carry a bit of extra weight, you can also bring a handheld flashlight, or even a small lantern for greater visibility in the dark. Pack the extra batteries in a waterproof bag or container to keep them safe from the rain.^{[21]XResearch source}
Pack sunscreen that's at least SPF 50 and a hat to wear while you’re backpacking, regardless of what season you'll be traveling in (you can still burn in the winter). Reapply sunscreen several times throughout the day to avoid getting burnt. You should also pack sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun.^{[22]XResearch source}
You can also bring bug repellant bracelets so you don't have to reapply bug spray as frequently. Keep the spray near the top of your bag or in one of the side pockets so it's easy to access.
Pack an extra top and bottoms so you have dry clothes to change into if you get caught in the rain. You should also pack extra socks and underwear, along with something warm to put on at night when it gets cold. Try to re-wear your clothes during your trip so you only have to pack two or three outfits.^{[23]XResearch source}
9
Put together a first aid kit to have in case of emergencies. You can also buy a pre-made first aid kit at your local drug store. If you make your own, make sure you include band-aids, gauze, pain-reliever tablets, sanitizer, itch-relief cream, and a disinfectant. Pack all of the first aid materials in a waterproof bag or container so they’re protected during your trip.^{[24]XResearch source}
- Don't forget to pack any medications you take.
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Question
What do you pack last for backpacking?
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences.
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
Expert Answer
Put your rain jacket and sunscreen at the top of your pack. Always keep anything you will want to grab during the hike up top or accessible!
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Question
Where do liquids go in a backpack?
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences.
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
Expert Answer
If you can, store liquids on the outside of your bag. Otherwise, put things that could spill, such as fuel, at the bottom of your bag.
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Is it okay to cook over a campfire?
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences.
High Mountain Institute
Outdoor Education Non-Profit
Expert Answer
It depends on where you're camping. Make sure fires are permitted before planning to cook over a fire. Always bring a camping stove as a back-up.
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