Backpacking Checklist (page 7)
If that isn’t already enough to bring, here are a few more suggestions. These are not essential; however, they can help make your trip a little more comfortable if you have the space and inclination:
• Map, field guide, or description of the trail: Most trails are pretty well marked (we’ll go into trial markers in a later section), so this is not a necessity. Still, it’s not a bad idea to have one in case you get lost. If you bring a map, keep it in a waterproof bag or case.
• Compass: If you know how to use one, this is another thing that isn’t a bad idea to have, though it is obviously more useful if you have a map.
• Extra blankets: You may need these, depending on the warmth of your sleeping bag and the overnight temperatures where you will be hiking. Fleece blankets are fairly cheap, lightweight, warm, and pack down small.
• A day pack: If you are doing a doing a “base camp” type trip, this would be useful to have along. You can leave the majority of your gear at camp, but pack along things like snacks and water for your day hikes. Many backpacks even come with detachable day packs.
• Camera: Backpacking provides great scenery, so great photo opportunities. If you are a photo enthusiast, you don’t want to be without your camera on a trip. My husband even lugged his eight-pound tripod on one of our trips; obviously, not everyone is that much of a photo nut. (He did get some great shots, though.) And if you’re not yet into the digital age, don’t forget the film as well.
• Binoculars: Not necessary, but cool to have.
• Sandals: It’s kind of a pain to have to put on your hiking boots just to go out and take a leak in the middle of the night. Plus boots are heavy and bulky, and it’s nice to have something that will let your feet breathe while walking around your campsite. Water shoes like Tevas are great for this, but cheap convenience store flip-flops work fine, too.
• GPS device: If you know how to use one, this is good to have in case you get lost, or one member of the party gets severely injured and somebody else has to hike out for help.
• Knife and/or axe: You will probably not be chopping firewood, but some trails are better maintained than others. You may need to chop through some undergrowth across the trail if you can’t get around it. Or, depending on your meal plan, you may need a knife for cooking. If you choose to bring something, opt for one that is small and lightweight. Even a Leatherman or Swiss army knife can come in handy.
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