How to Pack for a Backpacking Trip

Intermediate 1 hour 21 steps 2716 views Rating: 3.9/5 Published: 2026-02-28

Choose a backpack size based on the length of your upcoming trip.. Get a backpack with the right fit.. Get an internal-frame backpack for extra stability.

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Steps

1

Choose a backpack size based on the length of your upcoming trip.

Step 1

Choose a backpack size based on the length of your upcoming trip.

2

Get a backpack with the right fit.

Step 2

Get a backpack with the right fit.

3

Get an internal-frame backpack for extra stability.

Step 3

Get an internal-frame backpack for extra stability.

4

Go with a frameless backpack if you want something light.

Step 4

Go with a frameless backpack if you want something light.

5

Look for a backpack with the right features for your trip.

Step 5

Look for a backpack with the right features for your trip.

6

Find a backpack made out of a durable, water-resistant material.

Step 6

Find a backpack made out of a durable, water-resistant material.

7

Borrow or buy a used backpack if you're on a budget.

Step 7

Borrow or buy a used backpack if you're on a budget.

8

Organize all your gear before you pack.

Step 8

Organize all your gear before you pack.

9

Leave behind unnecessary items.

Step 9

Leave behind unnecessary items.

10

Distribute the weight of the gear in your pack.

Step 10

Distribute the weight of the gear in your pack.

11

Don't overstuff your backpack.

Step 11

Don't overstuff your backpack.

12

Pack essentials and emergency items in easy-to-access spaces.

Step 12

Pack essentials and emergency items in easy-to-access spaces.

13

Pack everything you'll need to camp out in.

Step 13

Pack everything you'll need to camp out in.

14

Bring a water-filtration system.

Step 14

Bring a water-filtration system.

15

Bring enough food for your trip and utensils to eat it with.

Step 15

Bring enough food for your trip and utensils to eat it with.

16

Carry multiple navigation tools in your pack.

Step 16

Carry multiple navigation tools in your pack.

17

Pack a headlamp and extra batteries.

Step 17

Pack a headlamp and extra batteries.

18

Remember to pack sun protection.

Step 18

Remember to pack sun protection.

19

Pack bug spray if you're backpacking in warm weather.

Step 19

Pack bug spray if you're backpacking in warm weather.

20

Bring extra clothes.

Step 20

Bring extra clothes.

21

Put together a first aid kit

Step 21

Put together a first aid kit

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