Pre-Trip Backpacking Checklist

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👕 Clothing (Layering System)

Worn while hiking:

  • ☐ Moisture-wicking shirt (Hilltop Packs Sun Hoodie?)

  • ☐ Hiking pants or shorts

  • ☐ Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)

  • ☐ Trail runners or hiking boots

  • ☐ Hat (sun or rain protection)

Packed clothing:

  • ☐ Insulated jacket (puffy or fleece)

  • ☐ Rain jacket or shell

  • ☐ Extra socks and underwear

  • ☐ Sleep clothes (clean/dry base layers)

  • ☐ Gloves and warm hat (for colder trips)

🍲 Cooking & Food

  • ☐ Food (freeze-dried meals, snacks, etc.)

  • ☐ Lightweight stove (canister, alcohol, etc.)

  • ☐ Fuel

  • ☐ Lighter and/or waterproof matches

  • ☐ Cook pot or cup

  • ☐ Spoon/spork

  • ☐ Food storage (bear bag or canister — Hilltop Packs Food Bag System!)

  • ☐ Biodegradable soap & small sponge (optional)

🚰 Water & Filtration

  • ☐ Water bottles or hydration reservoir (2-4 liters total capacity)

  • ☐ Water filter or purifier (Sawyer, Katadyn, etc.)

  • ☐ Backup water treatment (tablets or drops)

🧭 Navigation & Tools

  • ☐ Map (paper or digital)

  • ☐ Compass or GPS

  • ☐ Fully charged phone (with offline maps)

  • ☐ Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)

  • ☐ Multi-tool or knife

  • ☐ Trekking poles (optional but helpful)

🚑 First Aid & Safety

  • ☐ First aid kit (customized to your needs)

  • ☐ Blister care (Leukotape, moleskin)

  • ☐ Sunscreen

  • ☐ Lip balm with SPF

  • ☐ Insect repellent

  • ☐ Emergency whistle

  • ☐ Emergency blanket or bivy

  • ☐ Satellite communicator (like a Garmin InReach Mini)

💩 Bathroom & Hygiene

  • ☐ Trowel (check out the Hilltop Packs Dig N Rip!)

  • ☐ Toilet paper or wipes (in a ziplock)

  • ☐ Hand sanitizer

  • ☐ Toothbrush + toothpaste or powder

  • ☐ Menstrual products if needed

  • ☐ Small quick-dry towel (optional)

🧺 Other Items

  • ☐ Backpack rain cover or trash compactor bag liner

  • ☐ Sunglasses

  • ☐ Camp shoes (light sandals or Crocs)

  • ☐ Notebook and pen (optional)

  • ☐ Book or cards for camp time

  • ☐ Stuff sacks/dry bags (Hilltop Packs has awesome custom options!)

✅ Before You Go

  • ☐ Tell someone your trip plan and ETA

  • ☐ Check weather forecast

  • ☐ Make sure permits (if required) are printed/saved

  • ☐ Double-check gear weight & fit

  • ☐ Charge electronics

  • ☐ Leave no trace plan ready

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