Brent and Jonathan on The AT

From backpacking stretches of the Appalachian Trail to multi-day climbing trips in Joshua Tree National Park I have spent some time playing outdoors and have found out what works and what doesn’t when it comes to gear. Packing the appropriate items is especially important when spending multiple days in the backcountry.

Whether your trekking alone or with a group, there are a few must have Items that will make the trip enjoyable and keep you alive.

A Quality Sleeping Bag
Anyone who has ever spent any time camping probably knows what its like to be cold at night. I certainly have overestimated cheap sleeping bags before and regretted it. Down filled bags are great, they are light weight, and quite warm, but keep in mind that they are useless when wet. If you will be trekking where moisture is prevalent you may want to consider a synthetic bag.

An Appropriately Sized Pack
Don’t buy the first pack you see because it is the mega cheapo deal of the day at your local outfitter. Take some time to try out various packs, most are available in a multitude of sizes, and the correct fit is essential to comfort on the trail. Also ask yourself this: How long will I be on the trail, and how often. When I bought my first pack, I was certain that bigger was better, so I bought an expedition sized one. This led me to carrying more junk then I needed, or having way more space then I needed. Most several day to two week Treks would do well with something in the 50-60 liter size.

A Tent Or Tarp
This is one of those items that is really dependent on where you are trekking. If your trek takes you through the desert or other warm dry climates you could probably forgo it, but most other places carrying your own shelter is really going to help to make your trip enjoyable. Backpacking tents come in a variety of sizes from 1 to 3 person making this is one of those items that you can share among several people. This is great for keeping the weight in your pack down. If you want to keep the weight even lower, you can opt to carry a tarp and fashion a shelter out of It. Creativity counts here

Marmot Aura 2P, Click to read the review!

 

Means Of Water Purification
Unless you are absolutely sure of a water source, having a way to purify water for consumption is your best bet for preventing an early end to your trip. This is another one of those items that can be shared with the group, and can be done a number of ways. Portable water filters do a great job and usually work very quickly, but are often bulky and relatively heavy. Iodine tablets are probably the best choice if you are going for a super light approach, but keep in mind that it generally takes about a half hour to treat the water and often leaves a chemical taste in the water. Another option that has multiple uses is to carry a small canister stove and a pot

 

Patrick filtering water in the Tray Mountain Wilderness

First Aid
Getting injured in the backcountry is not to be taken lightly and being prepared goes a long way when it comes to avoiding the worst case scenario. Having a few essential first aid items will keep you at ease on the trail even if you never remove them from your pack. Items include but are not limited to ACE bandage, moleskin, alcohol,Ibuprofen, safety pins, and a bandana(to use as a splint).

A Few Considerations
When heading out on any type of outdoor trip no matter how long the intended stay is you should always make it habit to carry the following items: A knife, headlamp, Lighter, and a water bottle. As much as these items seem common sense, some people head out into the woods without them. Hiking can be unpredictable and being prepared with even these basic items can make the difference between a walk in the woods and disaster.