Complete Gear List for a Weekend Trip
This is the packing list I use for a weekend backpacking trip (80’s during the day, mid-40’s at night). I cover all the essentials for a comfortable trip but of course you can adjust it to your needs…we all have those few “luxury” items we can’t live without.
I’ve invested in mostly ultralight gear to make longer trips more enjoyable so this isn’t all budget-friendly options, but every single item gets my full check of approval. I understand you may not want to invest in expensive gear if you’re a beginner so I’ve added some alternative options!
I also have in-depth posts for longer backpacking trips and thru-hikes if you’re looking for a more extensive list. Check out my final Pacific Crest Trail gear list.
Jump Ahead
TEN ESSENTAILS:
On every outdoor adventure, you should start by packing the Ten Essentials. These items are necessary to keep you safe when the unexpected happens. To learn more about them, check out my post, The Ten Essentials.
HIKE:
Backpack
I have the Osprey Aura 65L (men’s version is the Osprey Atmos 65L) and it fits like a glove (make sure to get it sized at REI). If you remove the “brain”, the bag becomes 50L and is the perfect size for a weekend trip.
It’s super supportive, adjustable, and comfortable. It’s compartmentalized into three sections that make it easy to organize your gear (and fit a bear canister if you need one).
If you’re looking for an ultralight backpack and don’t mind spending a little more, I recommend checking out Hyperlite Junction 3400. I absolutely love this pack and used it for the entire Pacific Crest Trail . It’s lightweight, waterproof, and comfortable.
Backpack Cover
Always carry a rain cover for your backpack as you never know when it’ll start down-pouring in the mountains. The Osprey Ultralight Pack Rain Cover Large fits on the Osprey Aura or Atmos 65L.
If you have a Hyperlite backpack or other pack made of dyneema fabric, it should be waterproof. Make sure to check before heading out in the rain!
Osprey Ultralight Pack Raincover - Large
Trekking Poles
Okay so you may all think trekking poles look nerdy and don’t want to use them but I guarantee you’ll change your mind once you try them. I had this exact same thought and now I can’t go backpacking without them. They make such a difference in maintaining balance and a consistent pace.
I tried a few different options before finding my perfect pair. There are multiple features to take into account – material, gender, grip, and collapsed length.
Material (aluminum or carbon fiber) — carbon is significantly lighter while aluminum is more durable.
Gender (women or unisex) — women’s poles are shorter and have a smaller diameter hand grip. All poles are adjustable but unisex has a larger span of adjustments.
Grip (cork or foam) — this comes down to how sweaty your hands get. If you have sweaty hands, 100% get cork as it helps absorb the sweat. If you don’t sweat as much, foam is a comfortable option.
Collapsed length — all trekking poles collapse to different lengths. If you are traveling, it is more convenient to have a shorter collapsed length, or even a pair that folds down into thirds.
I have very small and sweaty hands and was looking for a more ultralight option so I ended up with women’s carbon fiber poles with cork grip — Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork. I also use the Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles as they are comfortable and collapsible, which makes them perfect for travel. For a more budget-friendly option try the Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles – Carbon Fiber.
SLEEP:
Tent + Footprint
There are so many tent options out there and it can definitely be overwhelming. The best tents are ultralight, durable, weather-proof, and easy to set up. However, the more ultralight, the smaller the space and more you’ll be cuddling with the person you’re sharing it with. If you’re looking for a two person tent, I highly recommend the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2. It isn’t the cheapest option but it has every feature you could want. It’s freestanding and has two doors (some ultralight only have one) and two vestibules. This is a game changer when you’re sharing with a friend and need to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, REI Trailmade 2 is quite a bit heavier (almost 3 pounds more than the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL1) but a great choice.
Another great ultralight option is the Zpacks Duplex. It’s non-freestanding meaning you set it up with trekking poles instead of tent poles. They’re not cheap but more than worth it if you want to save substantial weight.
If you’re looking for a one person tent, my personal favorite is the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL1. It’s freestanding, ultralight, and spacious. You can fit your backpack inside while you sleep and still have extra space.
Make sure to get the tent footprint that goes with whichever tent you get to protect it from wear and tear or getting dirty!
Sleeping Bag
There’s nothing worse than camping in the freezing cold without a warm sleeping bag. You can always unzip a little if you’re too hot. I use a Zpacks 10 degree sleeping bag - a full zip bag without a hood. However, I also have the Zpacks Down Hood to supplement the bag and keep my head warm. The full combination is extremely lightweight and keeps me warm at night!
I also have the REI Magma 15 sleeping bag and absolutely love it. It’s not too heavy and I’ve never gotten too cold (tested down to 20 degrees).
If you aren’t a fan of a mummy bag or want to save some weight, a quilt is also a great option. A quilt is not a sleeping bag and is meant to be used with a sleeping pad to provide insulation between you and the ground. The Enlightened Equipment Enigma 10 degree quilt is the best choice for a quilt.
Sleeping Pad
The higher the R-value the better. R-values can range from less than 2.0 (minimally insulated) to greater than 5.5 (extremely insulated). No one wants to sleep on a cold ground. I have the Therm-a-rest Neo-Air Xlite which has an R-value of 4.2. Yes, it sounds like a potato chip bag but you quickly get used to it. It’s so worth it! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Therm-a-rest Z Lite Sol or Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad are great pads but only have an R-value of 2.0 — perfect if you’re headed somewhere warmer.
Pillow
I’m so happy with my choice of pillow. Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow. It’s only 2.5oz., quick to blow up, comfortable, and fits right into the top of my sleeping bag. If you want to save weight, you can use a stuff sack full of clothes as a makeshift pillow.
Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow
KITCHEN:
Cooking system + Fuel
The BRS Stove is small, lightweight, and compatible with many different pots. If you want to stick with an ultralight setup, the Toaks 650mL Titanium Pot is a great option.
If you’re alright with adding a few ounces, the Jetboil Flash Cooking System is the most amazing product. It’s extremely easy to use and boils water in only 100 seconds which saves so much fuel.
If its cold out, make sure to always sleep with your fuel or it may stop working!
Mug
I use the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug and it keeps my coffee hot forever. Added bonus that it only weighs 3.5oz. If you want an even more ultralight option, Sea to Summit X-Mug is only 2.4 oz but doesn’t have a closed lid.
Spork
The longer the better. Trust me, you’ll want those lasts bits of food at the bottom of the bag at the end of a long day. Snow Peak Titanium Spork – Long is perfect.
Snow Peak Titanium Spork - Long
Bear Canister (check regulations before you go - you may not need)
This will take up a lot of your backpack so if you need one, be prepared. For weekend trips you can use a BV450 Bear Vault. They are heavy, bulky, and impossible to open in the cold, but necessary to keep the bears away!
BV450 Bear Vault
WATER:
Filtration System
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter. The best. It’s so incredibly quick and easy to use, and fits perfectly onto all smart water bottles. The Sawyer does come with its won dirty water bags but they aren’t the best quality and break easily. The CNOC 2L Dirty Water Bag is a great alternative. It’s extremely durable and fits directly onto the Sawyer.
If it’s cold out, make sure to always sleep with your water filter! Otherwise, any water stuck in the inside may freeze.
Water Bottles
I bring 2 smart water bottles (2 1L). They’re durable, lightweight, fit onto the Sawyer, plus I can see how much water I’m drinking.
If you’re backpacking in an area with limited water sources to refill, make sure to bring additional CNOC 2L dirty water bags so that you can carry additional water.
Purification Drops
Always have a backup form of water purification just in case. These Chlorine Tablets are a great option.
Chlorine Tablets
ELECTRONICS:
GPS Device
Garmin InReach Mini 2. This is a must have for any and all trips. It’s the only way to have two-way communication outside of cell service and therefore my parents favorite gear item (letting them know I’m still alive lol). There’s an SOS button in case of an emergency that will send a helicopter right away…so don’t accidentally press it!!
FYI to activate your device, you must pay a yearly subscription fee as well as a monthly plan. Each month you’ll chose a specific plan that works for you, or turn it off if you don’t plan to use it.
Portable Charger + Charging Cords
You don’t need a huge battery pack for only a weekend trip. The Nitecore NB10000 Battery Pack should last you 2-3 days and is very lightweight. Don’t forget your charging cords!
*FYI always sleep with your electronics as they will lose charge if they are too cold.
Nitecore NB10000 Battery Pack
MISCELLANEOUS:
Headlamp
To ensure that my clumsy self can hike in the dark without falling, I have a powerful headlamp. Nitecore NU25 Headlamp does the trick. It’s super bright and the battery lasts a long time. It also works as a “lantern” inside the tent (place it on the top mesh panel) or a flashlight while going to the bathroom in the night. Obviously don’t use your phone’s flashlight or you’ll run down the battery!
Another great option is the Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp.
Pee Rag
This may be my favorite item. Kula Cloth is a reusable antimicrobial pee cloth. It keeps you from having to carry tons of toilet paper (and pack it out).
Kula Cloth
Trowel (+ toilet paper)
Dig your hole and do your business. Deuce Backcountry Trowel is easy to use and super durable.
Instead of toilet paper I like to bring Portawipes. They are small, coin size dehydrated towels that just need a few drops of water to expand. Make sure to pack them out even if they are gross (I like to use dog poop bags)! Check out How to Properly Follow Leave No Trace to learn more about how to properly go to the bathroom in the wilderness.
Multi-Tool
Small, lightweight, durable and has all the tools you could possibly need. Scissors and pliers are definitely necessary. I use this Mini Swiss Army Knife and a small knife.
Water-proof matches
UCO Survival Matches. Always bring in case of an emergency. They’re also useful to build campfires where fires are allowed. Check out How to Properly Follow Leave No Trace to learn more about how to minimize campfire impacts.
UCO Survival Matches
Seat Pad
Trust me, you want this in your backpack. Sitting on sharp rocks while trying to enjoy your lunch isn’t too fun. Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad.
Therm-a-rest Z Seat Pad
CLOTHING:
Hiking Shoes
What shoes to use is one of the most debated topics in hiking/backpacking. I use to be a boot girl but made the switch to Altra Lone Peak Trail Runners and have never looked back. They are lightweight, quick drying, comfortable and have a huge toe box so you’re less likely get blisters or toe bang while hiking downhill. I’ve hiked thousands of miles with them and have no complaints.
If you are hiking in snow/rougher terrain, have weak ankles, or just want to go the boot route, some good brands are: Danner, Keen Merrell, or Vasque. I use Danner Mountain 600 boots while hiking in snow and love them.
Camp Sandals
At the end of a long day of backpacking, the first thing you’ll want to do is take off your hiking shoes. I like the Chaco Lowdown Sandals because they’re lightweight (ish), comfortable, and can also be used as a water shoe to cross creeks or to swim in rocky lakes. Xero Sandals are another great option if you want something super ultralight.
Down Jacket
I have the Arc’teryx Cerium LT and it’s lightweight, extremely warm, and can pack into itself into a little tiny ball. I have found this to keep me warm even in sub-freezing temperatures. However, sometimes I’ll layer my rain jacket on top as an extra wind-breaker.
I use the Arc’teryx Atom LT for mid-temperature nights. It’s made of synthetic material so it keeps me warm but definitely doesn’t have as much insulation as a down jacket.
Rain Jacket
I splurged on this one and never looked back. Arcteryx Beta LT Rain Jacket is worth every penny. If you are looking for something cheaper, I would recommend either the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket or the REI Xero Dry GTX Jacket. Make sure the “type of waterproofing” is Gortex (completely waterproof membrane).
Rain Pants
No, these are not cute. Yes, you will be happy you have them if heavy rain is in the forecast. Not only do they keep you dry when it rains, they are wind-proof and therefore add another layer of warmth in the cold. I have the OR Helium Rain Pants which are very lightweight and comfortable.
OR Helium Rain Pants
Tops
This is personal preference. I normally hike in a sun hoodie or long sleeve shirt to get as much sun protection as possible (especially at high altitudes). The Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie is my favorite hiking top. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and breathable. If you want a simple long sleeve shirt, the Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve 2.0 is a good choice and odor-resistant. If you prefer to hike in a short sleeve, I’d recommend the Icebreaker Cool Lite Sphere Low Crewe Shirt. All of these options are made of synthetic fibers, like polyester and nylon, which are breathable and lightweight.
Bottoms
Again, this is all personal preference. I like to bring one pair of shorts and one pair of leggings. My favorite shorts are the Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts (running shorts). My favorite leggings are either the Lululemon Wunder Train High Rise Leggings. If you want a biker style short instead, the Arc’teryx Essent Short 5 are great.
Sleep Clothes
I like to wear thin merino wool base layers to sleep. I have the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Base Layer top and the Icebreaker Merino Wool 200 Oasis leggings.
Sports Bra
Whatever works best for you! I love the Lululemon Free to be Wild Bra. It’s cute and has just the right amount of padding/support.
Lululemon Free to Be Wild Bra
Socks
Darn Tough Socks are the best hiking socks I’ve ever worn. You don’t need anything else. Make sure to get merino wool as it helps to breathe and wick away moisture. Plus they have a lifetime warranty!
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks
Underwear
I personally like thin seamless workout underwear like the Lululemon Seamless Thong . However, merino wool underwear is definitely a better option to resist odors. If you choose to go the “hiking underwear” route, Icebreaker Siren Thong is a good choice.
Beanie and Gloves
Check the temperature before leaving because you may not need these! If you do, I have the Coal Beanie and the Arc’teryx Rho Gloves. They both keep me plenty warm. The gloves have touchscreen compatibility which is a game changer.
Sun Hat
I like the Women’s Adidas Nylon Hat Any sun hat will work. It’s breathable and doesn’t fall off when it’s windy.
Adidas Nylon Hat
Buff
I have the Buff CoolNet UV+ Headwear. It can be used as a mask, headband, neck warmer, sun protector, etc. It’s so versatile and nice to have.
Buff CoolNet UV+ Headwear
Sunglasses
I can’t tell you how many sunglasses I’ve shattered while hiking so I leave my nice ones at home. Anything polarized and lightweight will work. I use Goodr, which has some cheap, fun options!
TOILETRIES:
I keep all my toiletries in a Zpacks Stuff Sack (very lightweight) or a small Ziplock bag.
Mini toothbrush + toothpaste + floss
Body wipes (Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes)
Face wipes (Ursa Major Face Wipes)
Mini hairbrush + hair ties
Sunscreen
Bug spray (Picardin)
Mini deodorant
Chapstick (Aquaphor SPF Chapstick)
Hand Sanitizer
FIRST AID:
I have the Ultralight/Watertight 0.5 Medical Kit which comes with bandaids, gauze, wound care, tweezers, Neosporin, safety pins, and some medications. I added to that:
Leukotape (the best for blisters – wrap some around your trekking pole or a small piece of cardboard to save weight)
Hydrocortisone
Ibuprofen (regular and PM)
Imodium
Zofran (nausea)
Benadryl
Melatonin
Probiotics
PERSONAL:
Permit, Itinerary, Cash, Card, and ID
FOOD:
Check out my Complete Backpacking List and Food Plan to get an idea of how much food you’ll need and what exactly to bring!
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