Backpacking

Ten backpacking essentials (according to REI and BSA)

• Navigation (map & compass)
• Sun protection
• Insulation (extra clothing)
• Illumination (flashlight)
• First-aid supplies
• Fire (matches and hot-spark)
• Repair kit and tools (pocketknife and or multi-tool)
• Nutrition (extra food, trail food)
• Hydration (water and water purification)
• Emergency shelter (at least rain gear)

Individual checklist

• backpack
• food and bear cannisters or stuff-sacks
• watch
• towel
• tent, ground cloth (a.k.a. "footprint")
• warm sleeping bag in stuffsack
• pad (for under sleeping bag)
• spaceblanket
• eating utensil (Spork is recommended)
• Sierra cup or bowl
• measuring cup
• warm jacket
• sweater or sweatshirt
• beanie (tuque)
• water bottles (2)
• hiking stick
• toilet paper
• personal first-aid kit
• compass
• map
• sturdy hiking shoes
• rain poncho
• Scout handbook
• flashlight
• change of clothes (especially socks)
• grooming kit (washcloth, soap, toothbrush, comb)
• garbage bag (to use as backpack cover in case of rain)
• sunscreen
• pen or pencil
• matches
• hot-spark kit or magnesium block
• pocketknife
• hat
• line
• carabiner
• whistle
• back-up batteries (for any battery-powered items)
• length of rope
• sharpening stone
• playing cards
• insect repellent

group gear:

• light water-boiling pots
• backpacking stoves and fuel
• water filter or purifier
• powdered Gatorade
• camera
• scrubee
• food
• dish soap