Lets go hiking
Back packing Instructions
Pack Light
a) Pack only what you know you will need and check weight before adding extras.
b) If you know water is available near your destination, only bring enough water for
the hike in…..water is heavy!
Always Pack Essentials (In one bag)
a) Compass & map
b) Lighter or waterproof matches
c) Fire starter
d) Whistle
e) Signal mirror
f) Emergency space bag
g) Pocket-knife
h) Water purification tablets Backpack
a) Internal or external frame
b) Notan oversized daypackClothing
a) Layer your clothing
b) The layer next to your skin should be moisture wicking (polyester, polypropylene, etc)
c) A good choice for light mid-weight clothing is Polar-fleeceÔ (Available cheap at Wal-Mart)
d) Pack an insulated jacket for cold weather
e) Always pack a beanie and gloves (Weather can turn cold fast in Spring, Fall & Winter)
f) Pack an extra pair of socks and underwear
g) Brimmed hat
h) Bandana
i) T-shirt & shortsFootwear
a) Heavy boots drag you down and tennis shoes don’t give you enough support; get suitable footwear.
(Big 5 has sales on decent low cost hiking boots almost every week)
b) Mid to heavy-weight synthetic boot socks are best; they provide extra cushion and wick moisture.Shelter / Sleeping
a) A small lightweight tent made for backpacking (an acceptable shelter can also be made from an 8’x8’ lightweight tarp w/ stakes & rope)
b) Moisture barrier (a lightweight tarp large enough to protect the bottom of your tent
(cheap at Harbor Freight Tools)
c) Sleeping pad (cheap closed cell foam pads can be bought at Big 5 & Wal-Mart for under $10
d) A lightweight synthetic or down bag that compresses is best (Bags are rated for temperature – a good all
around rating for this area is 35-40 degree; you can always pick up a fleece liner cheap)Toiletries
a) Toilet paper
b) Sunscreen
c) Bio-degradable soap
d) Hand-towel (I picked up a cheap lightweight backpack type at Sports Authority for $6)
e) Medications
f) Minor first-aid
g) Tooth brush & paste
h) Deodorant
i) Lip balm
j) Insect repellant Cooking / Food
a) Camp stove & fuel
b) Mess kit w/ cup & utensils
c) Clean up stuff (pot scrubber)
c) Keep meals simple for now and try to keep it light (see my attached list for ideas)Gear
a) At least 25’ of small dia. lightweight rope for hanging food
b) two large plastic trash bags (can be used for trash, emergency poncho, food storage, etc.)
c) Headlamp or small flashlight (x-tra batteries)
d) Water bottle / bag
e) Hiking poles or staff
f) Small day or fanny pack for hikes from base camp
