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Lake O’Hara Packing Lists for Hikers and Campers

Taryn Eyton — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 23:44:49 +0000

Getting to visit Lake O’Hara in Canada’s Yoho National Park is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. (Mostly because reservations are SO hard to get!) You need these Lake O’Hara packing lists to make sure you have the right gear so you can stay warm, dry and happy.

I’ve been to Lake O’Hara twice: On one trip I spent 4 days camping and hiking in early July. We had some chilly nights, sunny days and crazy rainstorms. On another trip in late August, I took the bus in for the day hiked the Alpine Circuit in variable weather. I’ve also done countless other trips to nearby destinations in the Canadian Rockies.

I’ve put together two packing lists for you. There’s a Lake O’Hara packing list for hikers that has everything you need for a day on the trails, no matter what the weather. And there’s a Lake O’Hara packing list for campers staying at the Lake O’Hara campground. Enjoy!

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Lake O’Hara Essentials for Every Visitor

National Parks Pass

You need a National Parks Pass to park at the Lake O’Hara parking lot. You can buy day passes and multi-day passes at Yoho National Park visitor centre in Field, BC. If they aren’t open, there’s a park pass vending machine in the parking lot.

You can also buy a pass when you enter nearby Banff, Jasper, or Kootenay National Parks – the same pass covers all of the Rocky Mountain Parks.

If you plan to spend more than seven days in any Canadian National Park in a 12 month period, it makes more financial sense to buy an annual Discovery Pass. You can buy one online or at any visitor centre. I get one every year!

Leave your Parks Pass on the dash of your vehicle in the Lake O’Hara parking lot. If you don’t have a pass displayed, you could get a fine.

Bus and Campsite Reservations

You need to make advance reservations for the Lake O’Hara Bus and Lake O’Hara campground. (Read more about how to make reservations in my Lake O’Hara guide.)

Bring a print out of your confirmation email or save it as a PDF on your phone. The Park Ranger will ask to see it when you check-in at the bus stop and the campground. They may also ask to see a piece of photo ID to crosscheck against the name on the reservation.

Cash

If you want to buy any snacks or souvenirs at Le Relais, the day-use shelter/coffee shop, you will need to bring cash to Lake O’Hara. The carrot cake is especially popular.

You can also buy lunch or afternoon tea at the Lake O’Hara Lodge… but they only take cash.

And if you lose your return bus token or you walk up and are hoping to get on the return bus on stand-by you can only pay for the bus in… you guessed it… cash.

I recommend bringing at least $25.50 per person – that’s the cost of the bus back down.

Map and Guidebook (Optional)

The Lake O’Hara area has excellent signage so it’s pretty easy to find your way. However, with so many trails to choose from, it can be hard to plan your route without a map.

Gem Trek makes a Lake O’Hara specific map. (This is the only map they sell at Le Relais.) However, for some perplexing reason, this map doesn’t have trail distances on it. I brought the more general Lake Louise and Yoho National Park map, which has a Lake O’Hara inset. That one DOES have trail distances and I found it waaay more helpful.

While it’s not essential, I like having a guidebook to choose which trail to hike. I recommend the Canadian Rockies Trail Guide by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson. It has a good overview of each of the hikes at Lake O’Hara.

You should also check out my guide to the Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit. It’s the best hike at Lake O’Hara, but it isn’t for everyone due to narrow ledges. My guide has lots of photos and details so you can decide if this hike is right for you.

Hikers on the Yukness Ledges on the Alpine Circuit

GPS App (Optional)

I use Gaia GPS on all of my hikes since I like to be able to tell how far we have walked (and therefore how much further we have to go).

Another good option is All Trails. It is more of a trails database than a GPS, but it does have good maps. Make sure you get an All Trails+ subscription since that is the only way to access maps when you don’t have cell service (which you won’t at Lake O’Hara).

I didn’t need the GPS for navigation at all at Lake O’Hara since the trails were so well marked. But it was handy to see our elevation and the names of the mountains. We also used it to get a good overview of the trail system.

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

Lake O’Hara Hiking Gear Packing List

If you’re planning to do any of the day hikes at Lake O’Hara, here’s a few essentials you should pack.

Psst: Looking for an overview of which hikes are available? Read my Lake O’Hara Hiking and Camping Guide.

Day Pack

If you’re going hiking, you’ll need a backpack to carry your gear. If you’ve already got a backpack, go ahead and bring it – as long as it’s not too little, you’ll be fine.

But if you’re shopping for a day pack, I recommend one that has about 20-25 litres of capacity. Great features to look for are a spot to hold a hydration reservoir and hip belt pockets so you can easily grab snacks, lip balm or your phone without taking the pack off.

I also likes backpacks with a rain cover so I don’t have to worry about my stuff getting wet. If your backpack didn’t come with a raincover, you can always buy a rain cover separately.

I brought my Gregory Jade 28 to Lake O’Hara. It was big enough to carry my rain gear, snacks, camera, and water. Plus it comes with a rain cover that was REALLY helpful on wet days. The men’s version is the Gregory Zulu 30.

I used the rain cover on my day pack a lot since the rain often rolled in quickly.

Hiking Boots

The trails in Lake O’Hara are meticulously maintained, but there are some really steep sections and lots of rocks. Wearing hiking boots gives you ankle support. And the tread on hiking boots also gives you better traction on steep slopes so you won’t skid out.

On my first trip to Lake O’Hara, I brought my trusty Salomon Quest hiking boots. They’re pretty lightweight and breathable for high cut boots with ankle support, so they don’t get too hot.

The second time I went to Lake O’Hara the weather was hot and I didn’t feel like wearing boots, so I wore my Salomon XA Pro trail runners. They are pretty burly for trail running shoes, so they provide a fair amount of stability but are still so much lighter than boots.

Hiking Socks

One of the biggest mistakes new hikers make is wearing their regular cotton socks on a hike. Cotton socks hold in your sweat. That’s a surefire way to get blisters! Wearing proper hiking socks made of wool or synthetics will help keep your feet dry.

My favourite hiking socks are actually the Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Mid socks. They are designed for trail running so they have cushion under the forefoot and at the heel, but otherwise they are lightweight and breathable.

If you want a slightly thicker traditional hiking sock, I love the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever.

Quick-Drying Hiking Clothing

You can definitely hike in your regular clothes, but they won’t be as comfortable. Bring some hiking pants or shorts and a hiking shirt made of quick-drying synthetic material. They’ll keep you cool and dry when you get sweaty! And don’t forget quick-drying hiking underwear.

Lately I’ve been loving hiking in a long sleeved sun hoodie since it keeps me cool and I don’t have to wear as much sunscreen. I have lots (and I reviewed them all in my guide to the best sun hoodies) but fave is the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody.

READ NEXT: Best Sun Hoodies for Hiking

On most summer days you’ll find me hiking in my Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts. I have two pairs. They aren’t too short or too long and they fit my curvy body. They also have big side pockets that hold my phone.

If it is chilly enough to want pants, I reach for my Mountain Hardwear Dynama pants. I actually have three of these! They are so good: soft and stretchy waist, durable yet lightweight material, and good pockets.

My group wearing quick-drying hiking clothing on way to Lake McArthur.

Fleece or Lightweight Puffy Jacket

Even if you visit in the middle of summer, Lake O’Hara can be chilly since it’s high in the Rocky Mountains. Pack a cozy fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy to wear for chilly mornings and evenings.

On my visit in mid-July, I ended up wearing my MEC Rockwall fleece at some point every day. My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm.

Rain Gear

It can rain at any time at Lake O’Hara since it has unpredictable mountain weather. On my first trip, we had a few light showers. And then one afternoon the heavens opened up for an hour into a torrential downpour. I kept my rain jacket in my day pack on every hike and was glad to have it.

These days, my go-to rain jacket is the Outdoor Research Aspire. (The men’s version is called the Outdoor Research Foray.) It’s lightweight, breathable, and fairly packable. It also has incredibly long pit zips that let me open it up for tons of ventilation. Plus, it’s not crazy expensive.

If rain is in the forecast, waterproof rain pants that you can layer over your hiking pants are a great idea. I brought mine and wore them around camp in the downpour on my Lake O’Hara camping trip. Rain pants with side zippers for venting that are easier to put on and take off without removing your shoes.

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants. They have a little bit of stretch, so they don’t feel as constricting as other rain pants. They also are often on sale so it’s easy to get a deal.

Bear Spray

The core Lake O’Hara area doesn’t usually have very many bears, but they are around. However, the McArthur Valley and Linda Lake area nearby are home to lots of grizzly bears and black bears.

Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking. Make sure you get a bear spray holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt.

My husband wearing his bear spray on his belt during our a hike to Lake Oesa. (It’s in the yellow hip holster.) It’s easy to grab in that position. But although we did see a bit of bear scat, we never saw any actual bears.

Sun Protection

The sun can be really harsh at Lake O’Hara since it’s at such a high elevation. Protect yourself from sun burns.

Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for protection. My fave sun protection combo is my lightweight Ciele GoCap along with a sun hoodie like the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody. The cap shades my face and when the sun gets harsh, I put the hood up on my sun hoodie to cover my neck and the sides of my face. Ciele makes my fave caps because they are lightweight and don’t seem to absorb sweat.

You’ll also want to bring high SPF water resistant sunscreen. I like Sun Bum’s Sunscreen Face Stick for on-the-go sunscreen application. It goes on like deodorant so I can reapply to high risk areas like my nose and cheeks without getting my hands messy. It’s also pretty sweat proof.

Don’t forget lip balm to avoid sun burned lips. You can’t beat basic Blistex. The SPF is low (only 15) so you have to reapply often. But I find it feels normal and doesn’t taste gross, unlike the thicker, bitter tasting formulas in SPF 30 lip balms.

Pack some sunglasses too. By far my favourite sunglasses are from Goodr. I have a few pairs. They are polarized, which makes the colours of the glacier lakes really pop. Since they are designed for running, they stay in place. They also really reasonably priced for polarized sunglasses.

Wearing a sun hoodie, baseball cap, and sunglasses at Opabin Prospect at Lake O’Hara.

Bug Spray

In early summer, the mosquitos at Lake O’Hara can be bad. If you’re sensitive to bites, bring some insect repellent. I like bug sprays that use picaridin instead of DEET since it is just effective against insects but doesn’t melt synthetic clothing the way DEET can.

First-Aid Kit

Pack a basic first-aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, and medical tape. You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies like blister bandages.

Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers like Advil, and anti-diarrhea pills like Immodium just in case. And don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

Camera or Phone and Charger

Lake O’Hara is STUNNING! You’ll want to take all the photos (and videos!) I brought my Sony A6400 camera. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

I also brought my iPhone for quick on-the-go shots. There is no cell service at Lake O’Hara, so I kept it on airplane mode.

Taking so many photos and videos, plus cold nighttime temperatures meant that my battery died pretty quickly. I was glad I brought a portable power bank to stay charged. I use a tiny Anker power bank that charges my phone a couple of times.

You’re going to want to take a LOT of photos. My friends took some epic family selfies.

Water Bottle or Hydration Reservoir

You need to stay hydrated at high elevations. Bring a water bottle or hydration reservoir. If you run out, you can fill up at the campground taps.

I use the Platypus Big Zip hydration reservoir. It’s pretty lightweight and the closure is really bomb-proof so it doesn’t leak.

Water Filter (Optional)

If you’re doing a long hike (like the Alpine Circuit) in hot weather, it can be tough to carry enough water to last the whole day. On my last trip to Lake O’Hara, I brought my Katadyn BeFree filter. It’s a simple to use squeeze filter that means I can filter water anywhere. It’s also really light and compact so I don’t mind carrying it.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are a few outhouse-style toilets in the Lake O’Hara area. You can find them at the parking lot, in the campground, at the Elizabeth Parker hut, and next to Le Relais. Parks Canada supplies toilet paper and hand sanitizer, but they do run out. Keep some with you just in case.

And if you really need to go and can’t make it to a toilet, go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way: Dig a small hole 70 big steps away from trails, roads, campsites, and water. Then bury your waste, and pack out your toilet paper in a plastic bag. I carry a super lightweight titanium trowel for backcountry poo-mergencies. Hilariously, it’s called the Deuce of Spades.

Snacks

You can buy snacks and drinks and Le Relais (get the carrot cake!!), or eat lunch at the Lake O’Hara Lodge, but plan to bring a few snacks on the trail.

Trekking Poles (Optional)

Besides the Lakeshore Trail, all the trails at Lake O’Hara have some super steep sections. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills or keeping your balance. I also found them really helpful on the steep and slippery snow patches we encountered on the Alpine Circuit.

I’ve been hiking with poles for the last two decades and can’t imagine going without them. So of course, I brought my Black Diamond Distance FLZ trekking poles to Lake O’Hara. These poles fold up instead of telescoping, which means they pack down super small so I can stash them in my pack when I’m not using them.

My trekking poles really helpful on the slippery snow we encountered on the All Soul’s Alpine Route. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

Lake O’Hara Camping Gear Packing List

One of the best ways to experience Lake O’Hara is to camp. After the day hikers leave on the last bus of the day, it really quiets down.

When planning to camp at Lake O’Hara keep in mind that it is at 2,020m elevation, which means it can be chilly at night, even in the summer. The average low temperature in June, July, and August is between 2 and 5C (36-41F). Brrrr!

As well, afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common, so you’ll want to make sure you are prepared for rain.

There’s also the bus baggage limit to contend with. All your gear must fit in one large bag per person. (Read more about the bus baggage limit in my Lake O’Hara guide.) In practice, that means camping like you are going on a backpacking trip.

If you are camping at Lake O’Hara, bring all the things on my hiking gear list above, plus these items:

Backpacking Pack or Duffle Bag

The checked baggage limit for the bus is one large bag or two small bags per person. (You can also bring a day pack as a carry on.) Parks Canada specifies that checked bags must weigh no more than 25 kg/55 lbs. and cannot be longer than 97 cm/38″ on the longest side.

Many people choose to bring their backpacking pack as their checked bag, but a large duffle bag is also a better option.

You can get a huge duffle bag that holds up to 100 litres (way more than the 60L that most backpacking packs carry) and still fits within the maximum baggage dimensions for the Lake O’Hara bus.

My husband and I brought one backpacking pack and a giant waterproof MEC duffle bag. It was helpful to have it as we could store extra gear in it outside our tent without worrying about rain.

If you’re looking for a budget option, I like MEC’s Classic Recycled Duffle Bags in the 90L size.

Don’t bring rolling suitcases. They will get stuck in the gravel and will be tough to carry over roots in the campground.

Baggage at the Lake O’Hara campground waiting to be picked up by the bus. You can see a mix of backpacking packs and duffle bags.

Tent

The tent pads fit 4-person tents or smaller. If you bring a bigger tent, it will hang off the end of the tent pad and park rangers make ask you to take it down and leave.

Bring a waterproof tent that can stand up to rain. If possible, choose one with a full-length rain fly that reaches all the way to the ground and covers the door. That offers MUCH more protection than the ones with a little fly on the top that you find at Canadian Tire.

We lent our MEC Volt 4 LT 4-person tent to our friends for our Lake O’Hara trip since they were camping as a family of 4. It’s a big tent, and it just fit on the tent pad. It has a full-length fly so it’s totally waterproof.

The tent platforms fit a four person tent at the largest. This photo shows a one person tent on the platform.

Warm Sleeping Bag and Insulated Sleeping Pad

The Lake O’Hara campground is at 2,020m elevation (6627 feet). It can be cold at night up there!

Pack a sleeping bag rated at least 0C (32F), but preferably -5C (23F). Choose one with a hood for extra warmth. If you’re looking for a backpacking sleeping bag on a budget, I can’t say enough good things about the MEC Draco/Delphinus bags. They are lightweight, compressible, warm, and won’t break the bank.

Even the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. Sleeping pads don’t just provide comfort – they also provide insulation since you lose heat to the ground. Choose a sleeping pad that has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth). If you expect really cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value.

I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm which has an R-value of 7.3 since I sleep really cold. My husband loves his Sea to Summit Ether Light which isn’t as warm (R-value 4.1), but is long and wide for a more comfortable sleep.

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend bringing a compact camping pillow to save your neck.

I love my Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium. It is lightweight and compact but still really comfortable once you blow it up thanks to the plush fabric. For a budget option, the basic Air Pillow is good – just layer an extra shirt over it to use as a pillowcase.

Thermal Base Layer Top and Bottoms

When it’s chilly, I sleep in thermal base layers while camping. They keep me way warmer than regular PJs. They are also nice to wear around the campsite under my clothes on cold evenings and mornings.

Choose mid-weight thermals made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both bottoms and a long-sleeved top. I sleep cold so I wear a Smartwool merino wool top with a hood and matching bottoms. MEC makes great polyester mid-weight base layers at a budget price.

Warm Hat and Gloves

You lose a lot of heat through your head and hands. Pack a cozy toque and some lightweight fleece gloves to wear in the mornings and evenings.

Headlamp or Flashlight

Pack a headlamp or flashlight to find your way around at night. I like using a headlamp since it keeps my hands free. I use the basic Fenix HM23 Headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power.

Camp Shoes (Optional)

Pack a lightweight pair of slip-on sandals, flats or Crocs for around camp. You’ll want a break from your boots at the end of each day. If you choose to bring camp shoes, pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack. I like to bring shoes that I can wear with socks for extra warmth. (Flip flops don’t work so well for that!)

Stove, Fuel, Pots and Cooking Utensils

There is a fire pit at the Lake O’Hara campground, but you aren’t supposed to cook on it. We brought our lightweight Primus OmniFuel backpacking stove and pot. If you’re looking for a simple stove, I recommend the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe.

Warming our hands on an over-primed stove. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Plates, Mugs, Forks, Cutting Board, and Knife

We brought our collapsible Sea to Summit bowls and our trusty Snow Peak camping sporks.

But we totally forgot to bring a cutting board. We have this fancy (and amazing) Snow Peak cutting board and knife set. It’s a bit too heavy for backpacking, but it’s perfect for car camping. It folds down so it doesn’t take up much space – I don’t know why we didn’t bring it!

We also brought our Snow Peak double-wall insulated mugs to keep our drinks warm for longer.

Dishwashing Supplies

We brought a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth, and some Dr. Bronner’s biodegradable soap.

There are sinks for doing the dishes at the campground, but they ask you not to put food into them as it clogs the drains. Parks Canada provides a few plastic washbasins. Heat up a bit of water on your stove, then do dishes in the washbasin. Strain out the food particles, then pour the soapy water down the sink and put the food particles in the garbage.

Small Soft-Sided Cooler

You aren’t allowed to bring hard-sided coolers to Lake O’Hara. But you can bring a small soft-sided cooler either as one of your two small bags, or tucked inside a larger bag.

Your cooler has to fit inside the 24″ cube-shaped bear lockers at the campground so pick a small one. Use ice packs or pack your ice inside ziploc bags to avoid a wet mess inside.

We have a little Hydro Flask Insulated tote bag cooler that we bring on trips like this. It’s big enough to fit a few small perishable items like cheese or half a dozen eggs.

Food

Unlike most backcountry trips, food weight and bulk aren’t a problem at Lake O’Hara since you get to take the bus in. We brought fresh food we wouldn’t normally bring hiking including veggies and frozen steaks! And don’t forget the snacks!

Tarp (Optional)

There are shared cooking shelters, but in rainy weather they get full and not everyone can fit inside. If rain is in the forecast, bring a tarp to string up over the outdoor picnic tables to create a cooking area.

I use an ultralight MEC Scout Silicone Tarp since it packs down small enough to bring on backpacking trips. But if you’re on a budget, a good old giant blue tarp will work just fine.

Bring some rope or paracord to string up the tarp. I swear by these Nite Ize Figure 9 Caribiner Rope Tighteners – they make it so much easier to pitch a tarp without having to tie all kinds of crazy complicated knots.

The campground at Lake O’Hara. On the left is one of the cooking shelters. You can also see the bathroom building with its covered porch and dishwashing sinks. Since the cooking shelters are small, you might want to string up a tarp over one of the picnic tables.

Toiletries

Bring all your usual camping toiletries including a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, baby wipes, hairbrush, and contact solution.

Entertainment for Camp (Optional)

You’ll have a few hours each night in camp when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book or some headphones to listen to music or podcasts.

The shelters can be really social so a deck of cards or a compact game can be a good way to meet new friends.

I always travel with my Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from. We’ve brought the card game Exploding Kittens on a few trips and it’s always a hit.

Hiking down the East Opabin Trail

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for Lake O’Hara

Even though you can bring tons of stuff to Lake O’Hara, you don’t want to over pack. Here’s what you shouldn’t bring.

Climbing gear: The trails are non-technical and you won’t need harnesses, ropes, helmets, crampons, etc. However, if you do plan to climb some of the peaks nearby or head to the former Abbot Pass Hut site, you will need climbing gear, plus the knowledge of how to use it.
Hammocks: They aren’t allowed in the campground since they can damage trees.
Camping Chairs: It’s against park rules. There are lots of picnic tables and benches in the campground you can use.
Portable speakers or other electronics: Most people come to Lake O’Hara to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down. Plus they are against the rules
Musical instruments: Parks Canada doesn’t allow them.
Hard-sided coolers or plastic bins. They aren’t allowed.
Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park unless you have a special use permit.
Your dog: Dogs are permitted on leash on day hikes in the park, but they aren’t allowed on the bus or in the campground.

Final Thoughts

With these two Lake O’Hara packing lists, you should have everything you need to have an awesome trip, whether you are hiking or camping. If you have questions about what to bring to Lake O’Hara, please leave me a comment. I’m always happy to help!

MORE LAKE O’HARA INFO:

MORE HIKING TIPS:

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The Ultimate Yellowstone Packing List for Every Summer Visitor

Taryn Eyton — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:48:37 +0000

A few years ago, I spent a week in Yellowstone National Park. OMG, what an incredible place! I did a bunch of research about what to see before I went, but I couldn’t find much info on what to pack for Yellowstone.

Yellowstone presents some unique challenges for visitors. It is located in the Rocky Mountains and the park is at a high elevation. Most of it is over 7000 feet (2100m) above sea level and subject to unpredictable mountain weather.

I saw lots of unprepared people shivering in the cold, soaking wet in rainstorms or with lobster-like sunburned skin. (And to be honest, sometimes I was one of them.) Even though June, July, and August are summer in Yellowstone, it’s not like summer everywhere else in America!

To have an awesome time on your summer trip to Yellowstone, you should pack a few key items along with your regular travel gear. Below you’ll find a complete Yellowstone packing list for all visitors.

I also have a bonus list of what hikers should bring to Yellowstone and one for campers too. AND, I’ve got a Yellowstone packing list for picnickers. (Since I think picnicking in Yellowstone National Park is way better than eating at restaurants every day, and cheaper too.) [Insert your own Yogi Bear picnic basket joke here ;)]

In this post you’ll find:

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

WANT MORE YELLOWSTONE INFO? Check out these posts:

The Basics: Things Everyone Needs to Bring to Yellowstone

Yellowstone is a unique place. It can be brutally sunny, cold and wet… all in the same afternoon. The wildlife watching is spectacular… and they are also not to be messed with. It’s also pretty remote.

While there are a few small stores in the park, they don’t have everything. I found it helped to be self-sufficient. Here’s my list of the things I think every single visitor to Yellowstone should pack.

Sun Protection

The sun can be really harsh in Yellowstone since it’s at such a high elevation. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for protection. You’ll also want lots of high SPF sunscreen and some SPF lip balm to avoid burned lips.

I used my Outdoor Research Oasis Sun Hat in Yellowstone since it has a wide brim and I can fold it up into my pack when I’m not wearing it.

READ NEXT: Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather

Decked out in our sunhats, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen while hiking near the Yellowstone River.

Polarized Sunglasses

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they let you see colours that are truer to reality than what you get with regular sunglasses. They also help you see into the water.

In Yellowstone, that lets you see deeper into the hot pools and lakes, which is really cool. I like Goodr sunglasses since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Camera with a Long Lens

The main reasons people come to Yellowstone are the amazing scenery and abundant wildlife. And of course, you’ll want photos of both. Your phone is fine for shots of scenery, but for wildlife, you’ll want an SLR camera with a long lens.

I’m the biggest idiot and forgot mine at home! I was cursing myself the whole time I was in Yellowstone as I missed out on some amazing wildlife shots. And if you are shooting with a long lens, you’ll want a tripod for stability. (I forgot that at home too! Oops.)

I did remember to bring my Sony A6400 camera. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

When I remember to bring it, I use a budget Sony 55-200m lens to shoot wildlife. I also have a lightweight Sirui T-025SK carbon fiber tripod.

Binoculars or Spotting Scope

I’ve never seen more people carrying binoculars than I did in Yosemite. Binoculars are essential for watching wildlife since you need to stay so far away from them for safety. My advice would be to get the most powerful binoculars or spotting scope you can afford. It really makes a difference.

If you’re like me and know nothing about shopping for binoculars, check out this post on the best travel binoculars for wildlife watching.

We brought a compact GoSky Titan monocular that my husband found on Amazon. It’s pretty compact and not too expensive, but it still has great magnification. Our favourite part is that it comes with an adapter to attach your phone. That way you can turn it into a giant zoom lens for your cell phone. Pretty cool!

Watching bison through our monocular was really cool!

Bear Spray

Yellowstone has a very high population of both grizzly bears and black bears. While both species usually stay away from people, they have been known to prowl through campgrounds, defend their cubs, or surprise people on trails. I saw both grizzlies and black bears on my trip – a grizzly bear walked right past our backcountry campsite one night after dinner!

Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking. You can buy bear spray at most stores inside Yellowstone National Park, but it’s MUCH more expensive compared to buying it beforehand.

Buy bear spray and make sure you get a a holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt.

Fleece or Puffy Jacket

Even if you visit in the middle of summer, Yellowstone can be chilly since it’s over 6000 feet (1800 meters) above sea level. Pack a cozy fleece or puffy jacket to wear for cold mornings and evenings. On my visit in mid-June, I ended up wearing mine at some point every day.

My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff insulated jacket. It packs down super-small but still has plenty of warmth.

I packed my favourite MEC Rockwall fleece, which I love since it is soft and has a bit of stretch. But any fleece jacket will do. You also can’t go wrong with the budget-friendly REI Trailmade Fleece.

Reusable Water Bottle and Travel Mug

You need to stay hydrated at high elevations. But adding plastic waste to our world sucks. Bring your own reusable water bottle and fill up at visitor centres, hotels, and campgrounds.

I don’t go anywhere without my Hydroflask. (My husband jokes that it’s my emotional support water bottle!) It keeps my water cold all day, which makes it worth the price.

If you’re a coffee drinker, it also makes sense to bring your own mug to avoid a throw-away paper cup. Plus that way your coffee stays warm longer. I love my YETI Rambler Tumbler. It keeps coffee hot for hours and the magnetic slider lid keeps it closed. It’s also easy to disable the lid to clean it.

Phone and Power Bank

These days, we all take our phones everywhere. So, of course, you’ll want yours in Yellowstone. Keep in mind that there is no cell service in most of the park, and in the areas where there is coverage, it can get spotty.

This means that your phone battery will die quickly while it keeps looking for a signal. (And also because of all those geyser videos you’ll be taking!) Make sure you bring a portable power bank so you can charge your phone on the go.

I use a tiny Anker power bank that charges my phone a couple of times. Unlike some of the crappy power banks you can buy on Amazon (or at gas stations) these are high quality – I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are lots of toilets around Yellowstone National Park. Most parking lots and trailheads have one. However, the toilets don’t always have a good supply of toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Keep some with you just in case.

And if you really need to go and can’t make it to a toilet, go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way: Dig a small hole 70 big steps away from trails, roads, campsites, and water. Then bury your waste, and pack out your toilet paper in a plastic bag. I carry a super lightweight titanium trowel for backcountry poo-mergencies. Hilariously, it’s called the Deuce of Spades.

Bug Spray

The mosquitos in Yellowstone can be bad, especially in early summer. If you’re sensitive to bites, bring some insect repellent. I use bug spray made with picaridin since it is scientifically proven to be the most effective and isn’t as harsh as DEET. Skip the herbal and citronella insect repellents – they don’t work.

Rain Jacket

Yellowstone still gets rain in the summertime. It’s very common for thunderstorms to spring up in the afternoon, leading to a quick (and intense) rain showers.

Bring a lightweight rain jacket just in case you get caught in the rain. I love my Mountain Hardwear Minimizer Gore-Tex Paclite Plus Jacket since it is insanely light, packs down super-small and breathes well. The only downside is that it’s not cheap.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly packable rain jacket I recommend the Outdoor Research Helium or the REI Rainier.

READ NEXT: 5 Tips for Hiking in the Rain

The crowd watching Old Faithful erupt. A few minutes before this a huge hailstorm blew through! I was glad to have my rain jacket!

First Aid Kit

You can buy basic first aid supplies at stores in the park. But that won’t seem like a good option when the nearest one is 30 minutes away and someone needs a bandaid or a Tylenol. Pack a basic first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, and medical tape.

You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.)

Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers like Advil, and anti-diarrhea pills like Immodium just in case. And don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel (Optional)

If you’re visiting during the warm summer months, bring a bathing suit so you can cool off in one of Yellowstone’s two swimming areas: Boiling River and Firehole River. Due to high water levels and strong currents, both of these spots are usually closed until early July, so I wasn’t able to swim on my mid-June visit. Some of the hotels in the area also have pools or hot tubs.

Don’t bring a traditional cotton beach towel – they take up tons of space and take forever to dry. I use a quick-drying microfibre travel towel from PackTowl. It absorbs lots of water and dries really fast.

Moisturizer (Optional)

If you come from a humid, coastal climate like me, you will find the high mountain air really drying. My skin complained for our entire visit! I wish I had brought some good moisturizer.

Fishing Gear (Optional)

Fishing is REALLY popular in Yellowstone. If you want to fish, you need to get a special Yellowstone fishing permit and comply with tackle restrictions. My husband didn’t bring his fishing gear since we didn’t think we’d have time to fish. He was definitely jealous of all the fly fishers we saw!

Fishing on Yellowstone Lake

Dog Leash (If Applicable)

You can bring your dog to Yellowstone, but it has to be on a short leash (less than 6 feet) at all times. Dogs must also stay within 100 feet of roads, parking lots and campgrounds. That means your dog can’t hike with you or visit any of the thermal features.

You can find more info about visiting Yellowstone with dogs on the National Park website.

Hiking Gear to Pack for Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone has TONS of hiking trails. Most visitors stick to the roadside pullouts and never venture on to a trail. That means the hiking trails are MUCH less crowded than the rest of the park.

If you’re planning to go hiking in Yellowstone, you’ll need to pack the 10 essentials, just as you would on any hike. But here are a few other things you should bring for your Yellowstone hike.

Hiking to Fairy Falls near Grand Prismatic Spring

Day Pack

If you’re going hiking, you’ll need a backpack to carry your gear. You can use any old backpack you have lying around the house. But I find it much more comfortable to hike with a dedicated hiking backpack.

For day hikes, I like ones that have about 20 litres of capacity and have a spot to hold my hydration reservoir. I also love ones with hip belt pockets so I can easily grab snacks, lip balm or my phone without taking the pack off.

I’ve been using a Gregory Maya for years and absolutely love it! It’s a women’s pack but it comes in a men’s version too called the Mi ko.

Hiking Boots

The trails in Yellowstone are pretty well maintained, but they can be steep or muddy. Wearing hiking boots gives you ankle support and keeps your feet dry in wet conditions. The tread on hiking boots also gives you better traction on steep slopes so you won’t skid out the way you might in running shoes.

I brought my trusty Salomon X Ultra Mid hiking boots to Yellowstone and wore them a LOT. They’re pretty lightweight and breathable, so they don’t get too hot.

Hiking Socks

One of the biggest mistakes new hikers make is wearing their regular cotton socks on a hike. Cotton socks hold in your sweat. That’s a surefire way to get blisters!

Wearing proper hiking socks made of wool or synthetics will help keep your feet dry. I love Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks. They’re comfortable and they have a lifetime warranty. They’re made in America too!

Quick-drying Hiking Clothing

My current hiking favorites are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoodie (it’s one of my favourite sun hoodies) and Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts. In hot weather, quick-drying hiking underwear are a must have to avoid discomfort “down there”. Read my guide to hiking underwear to see my top picks.

Hiking near the Yellowstone River Picnic Area

Guidebook and Maps (Optional)

You can get ideas about where to hike from the visitor centres or the park brochure, but I found having a guidebook really helpful. It was great to see all the hike options, then choose one that sounded best to us.

We bought the Yellowstone Trails guide from Yellowstone Forever. (It’s a non-profit organization that supports the park.) Other great options are A Ranger’s Guide to Yellowstone Day Hikes and Hiking Yellowstone National Park.

National Geographic makes the best topographic maps of Yellowstone National Park. They show all the trails. We just brought the general Yellowstone National Park map, but there are smaller, more detailed maps for various park regions too.

Trekking Poles (Optional)

Some trails in Yellowstone have a lot of steep ascents and descents as well as some uneven terrain. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills or keeping your balance in the mud.

I’ve been hiking with poles for the last 15 years and can’t imagine going without them. So of course, I brought my Black Diamond Trail trekking poles to Yellowstone. If you want a budget pair, the Cascade Mountain Tech trekking poles get great reviews.

Yellowstone National Park Picnic Gear

Yes, Yellowstone has restaurants. But they are expensive and many of the attractions far from the nearest restaurant.

We packed a picnic lunch for most of our days in the park. It was a fun way to slow down in the middle of the day and just chill out at a beautiful spot. It was also MUCH less expensive than eating out every day.

Yellowstone National Park has lots of picnic areas with tables and restrooms. Many of them are a little bit off-the-beaten-path so you get to explore some of the quieter parts of the park. Here’s my picnic packing list for Yellowstone:

Groceries and Snacks

There are a few small stores in Yellowstone, but they have very limited groceries. And the prices are expensive! If possible, stock up before you get to the park.

During our trip, we shopped at grocery stores in Gardiner, MT, West Yellowstone, MT and Jackson, WY. They all had a pretty good selection of things at reasonable prices.

Chowing down on some cheese on one of our many Yellowstone picnics. Photo credit: My husband who enjoys taking unflattering photos of me.

Cooler

It can get really warm in the afternoon in Yellowstone, so a cooler is a must. You don’t need anything super fancy. We have a small 18 quart Coleman cooler. It held ice for a day or so, then we just bought more at the park store.

Since our trip to Yellowstone we splurged and got a YETI Roadie 24 cooler. It’s definitely expensive, but the increase in performance is huge! We’ve used it on tons of trips (including to Moab, Utah) and it holds ice for days and days.

Pro tip: To make your ice last longer, cover your cooler with a warm jacket, blanket, or sleeping bag to provide more insulation and shade when you leave it in a hot car.

Plates, Forks, Cutting Board, and Knife

We brought a couple of camping plates and our trusty camping sporks to eat off of. Having a cutting board and knife to cut up veggies, sausage and cheese was also helpful. We have this cutting board and knife set. It folds in half and the knife stows inside!

Reusable Food Containers and Ziploc Bags

We brought a couple of plastic food containers and a handful of Ziploc bags and they were so helpful. We stored leftovers in them and used them to protect groceries from getting soggy in the cooler.

Table Cloth (Optional)

The one piece of picnic gear that I forgot to bring was a plastic table cloth. I was definitely jealous when I saw other groups using one. They are handy to have to cover less-than-clean picnic tables. And they are easy to wipe down when you’re done. Plus they make you feel a bit fancy!

Yellowstone National Park Camping Gear

One of the best ways to experience Yellowstone National Park is to camp. (I liked it so much I wrote a whole guide with everything you need to know about camping in Yellowstone.)

Most of the crowds go back to their hotels in the evenings and the park really quiets down. You may also get to see more wildlife as some animals like to hang around the campgrounds.

When planning to camp in Yellowstone, keep in mind that all the campsites are above 6000 feet (1800 meters), which means they can be chilly at night, even in the summer. The average low temperature in June, July, and August is between 34 and 39F (1-4C). Brrrr!

As well, afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common, so you’ll want to make sure you are prepared for rain. Use these tips for camping in the rain to make sure you stay dry.

For camping in Yellowstone, bring all the things on my picnic gear list above, plus these items:

Tent

Bring a waterproof tent that can stand up to rain and wind. Choose one with a full-length rain fly that reaches all the way to the ground and covers the door. That offers MUCH more protection than the ones with a little fly on the top.

We brought our MEC Volt 4 tent to Yellowstone and it held up well. Another good option is the REI Base Camp.

Soggy tents in the Norris campground. Many of the people camped near us had to rig up tarps to protect their leaky tents.

Warm Sleeping Bag and Insulated Sleeping Pad

The campsites in Yellowstone are all over 6000 feet (1800m) elevation. Many of them are over 7000 feet (2100m). It can be cold at night up there.

Pack a sleeping bag rated at least 32F (0C). Choose one with a hood for extra warmth. The REI Siesta 20 sleeping bag is a great budget pick that will still keep you warm.

Even the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. Sleeping pads don’t just provide comfort – they also provide insulation since you lose heat to the ground.

Choose a sleeping pad that has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth). The Sea to Summit Comfort Light sleeping pad is a good budget pick that gives you comfort and warmth.

If you expect really cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value. I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. A cheaper option is the Big Agnes Rapide SL.

Thermal Base Layer Top and Bottoms

Choose mid-weight thermals made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both bottoms and a long sleeved top.

I sleep cold so I wear the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew top and Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer bottoms. If you’re looking for a budget option, the REI Midweight base layer top and REI Midweight base layer bottoms are good.

Warm Hat and Gloves

You lose a lot of heat through your head and hands. Pack a cozy beanie and some lightweight fleece or wool gloves to wear in the evenings.

Headlamp or Flashlight

Pack a headlamp or flashlight to find your way around at night. I like using a headlamp since it keeps my hands free. I use a Fenix HM50R headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the battery is rechargeable and lasts a long time.

Stove, Fuel, Pots and Cooking Utensils

Most campsites in Yellowstone have fire pits, but there can be campfire bans in dry weather. Cooking on a campfire can be fun, but using a stove is much easier and more reliable.

We use a basic Coleman 2 burner stove. The design has been around for decades for good reason – they are simple to use and super-durable.

Dishwashing Basin, Soap and Scrubber

Most of the Yellowstone campgrounds don’t have dishwashing sinks and you aren’t allowed to wash dishes in the restrooms or at the water taps. Instead, they ask you to wash dishes at a basin in your campsite, then dump the soapy water in the restroom toilet.

We didn’t bring a basin so we had to wash our dishes in our largest pot. Next time I’ll definitely bring a wash basin. We saw some campers with this nifty collapsible dish basin. It stows flat when you aren’t using it and has handles for carrying it to a place where you can dump it out. I think I’ll definitely be picking one up for our next trip.

Camping Chairs

Sure, you could sit around your picnic table. But that means you can’t get close your to campfire! You need chairs. We brought our Helinox camping chairs since they pack up super small and are pretty comfortable.

Kitchen Tarp

Most of the campers we saw in Yellowstone didn’t have a kitchen tarp. That meant that on the stormy evenings, they were cooking dinner in the rain.

We brought our lightweight backpacking tarp and strung it up on ropes over our picnic table. It gave us a dry place to eat and cook, which was so nice during the storms. You could also just get a cheap blue poly tarp.

A few groups had fancy free standing kitchen shelters with bug screens. One of those is definitely going on my wish list.

Things You Shouldn’t Bring to Yellowstone

Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park.
Fancy clothes: You won’t need them. All the restaurants in the park are pretty casual and everyone else will be wearing hiking clothes.
Elk buglers: It’s against the rules to imitate elk calls or use buglers. You also aren’t allowed to imitate wolf calls.

How Cold Does it Get in Yellowstone? What is the Weather Like?

Yellowstone is in the Rocky Mountains and on average, the park is at an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,400 m). That means that it can be cold, even in the summer. The weather is also very unpredictable and it changes often.

Here is a chart that show’s Yellowstone’s average high and low temperatures for each month as well as the number of days with rain. If you’re camping, keep in mind that the lows are overnight temps.

Month	Average High	Average Low	Rain
Jan	28°F	3°F	13 days
Feb	31°F	4°F	11 days
Mar	39°F	10°F	14 days
Apr	46°F	19°F	13 days
May	53°F	28°F	12 days
Jun	63°F	34°F	10 days
Jul	73°F	39°F	5 days
Aug	71°F	37°F	6 days
Sep	62°F	31°F	7 days
Oct	48°F	24°F	10 days
Nov	34°F	13°F	12 days
Dec	26°F	4°F	13 days

Data from NOAA

Summer in Yellowstone is generally warm but not hot. Daytime temperatures are around 70°F. Nights are much cooler, especially at high elevations. Expect thunderstorms in the afternoons.

The best general weather forecast is the Yellowstone National Park forecast from NOAA. Don’t use forecasts for nearby towns since they are too far away and at lower elevations.

Since the park is so big, look for a weather forecast for the area you want to visit. I like to use Spotwx to get a forecast for the exact place I’m visiting.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Final Thoughts

With these Yellowstone packing lists, you should have everything you need to have an awesome trip, whether you are hiking, camping, picnicking or just touring around. If you’ve already been to Yellowstone, what was your one “must-have” item you brought? Tell me in the comments.

MORE YELLOWSTONE POSTS:

MORE ADVICE FOR CAMPERS AND HIKERS:

The post The Ultimate Yellowstone Packing List for Every Summer Visitor appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Overland Track Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring

Taryn Eyton — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 00:29:00 +0000

Packing for the Overland Track can be a little bit confusing. I did lots of gear research before I walked the Overland Track. I managed to put together a backpack full of gear that wasn’t too heavy or bulky, but still kept me warm and dry in Tasmania’s fickle (and chilly) weather.

Here’s my complete Overland Track packing list. It includes everything you should bring, plus my specific recommendations for gear.

I walked the Overland Track without a guide. So this Overland Track packing list is set up for self-guided hikers who will carry all their own gear and sleep in a tent or the public huts.

For more info on the different ways you can do the Overland Track (including fully guided) check out my Ultimate Guide to the Overland Track.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Overland Track Essentials

Trail Permit

When you check in at the visitor centre to start the walk, the ranger will give you a small waterproof, paper permit. Keep it attached to your pack while walking and tied to your tent at campsites.

For more information on how to make Overland Track bookings, get permits and how much they cost, see my Ultimate Guide to the Overland Track.

Guidebook and Map (optional)

If you want, you could definitely do the entire walk without a map or guidebook. There are big info boards inside each of the huts that have a map and trail info for the next section of the walk.

However, I found it helpful to have a map and was also glad I read through a couple of guide books before my trip. To get an idea of what the hike is like, read my section-by-section overview of the Overland Track.

I recommend: Overland Track by John Chapman and Monica Chapman. It’s the most detailed guide to the trail anywhere and includes lots of helpful maps.

I also got the official guidebook, The Overland Track: One Walk Many Journeys from the Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service. You can buy it when you make your track booking or at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.

If you get the official TASMAP Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair map, you won’t need to bring anything else on your walk. It has a big map of the trail on one side. The other side has printed descriptions for each section of trail, an elevation profile (so helpful!), and info on side trips and safety.

You can buy it at shops in Tasmania, at the national park, or online when you make your Overland Track reservations.

Compass and/or GPS (optional)

I use a GPS on all my hikes since I like to be able to see how much further I have to go. We didn’t need the GPS for navigation at all on the Overland Track since it was so well marked.

I recommend: I love the Gaia GPS app for my phone. It has lots of helpful map layers and lets me calculate the distance to the next landmark.

Backpacks and Bags for the Overland Track

Backpack

When looking for a backpack, choose something between 50 and 75L. Do a test pack at home to make sure all your gear fits. Make sure you pick a backpack that fits you well and is comfortable to carry when fully loaded.

I recommend: I took my older Boreas Lost Coast 60 backpack on the trail but sadly it’s discontinued. My husband really likes his Gregory Stout 65. It comes in a women’s version called the Gregory Amber 60.

My husband using his Gregory Stout on the Overland Track

Day Pack

If you plan to do any of the side trips from the Overland Track, you should bring a small packable day pack. That way you don’t have to carry your heavy pack the whole way. Choose one that’s about 20L in size.

I recommend: My husband and I shared the Outdoor Research Dry Summit Pack. It has a roll-top so it’s totally waterproof.

Stuff Sacks and Organizers

To stay organized I like to pack my gear in a combination of different sized stuff sacks. Mostly I use light weight dry bags. It can rain a LOT on the Overland Track so keeping your gear dry is really important.

I recommend: I like the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil window dry bags. They’re waterproof but still incredibly lightweight. Plus they have a clear panel so you can see what’s inside.

Rain Protection

If your gear gets wet, it can really ruin your trip. We did the Overland Track in the middle of summer. Despite this, we had pouring rain, hail, and snow on January 31st, and a few sprinkles of rain on other days.

I brought a rain cover for my backpack and also brought a couple big bin liners (garbage bags) to wrap up gear inside my pack.

I recommend: Some packs come with a custom sized rain cover. If yours didn’t, buy a lightweight silnylon one that fits your pack well.

Pro tip: If you tend to overstuff your pack or attach things to the outside, buy a slightly larger sized rain cover.

My backpack inside its raincover

Tent and Sleeping Gear

Tent

The Overland Track is a serious mountain trek. You need a proper hiking tent. Even if you plan to sleep in the huts, you need to bring a tent in case the huts are full or you have an emergency.

Bring a hiking tent that is lightweight, compact and has a full length waterproof rain fly. You can get bad weather at any time up there, so this isn’t the place for a cheap, big-box store tent that will leak.

Since almost all of the campsites on the Overland Track are on wooden platforms, you may want to bring a freestanding tent. It’s challenging, but definitely not impossible to set up a non-free-standing tent on the platforms.

I recommend:

We actually brought a non-free-standing tent, the Zpacks Triplex, on the Overland Track. It took a bit longer to set up on the platforms, but overall it was fine.

We used a few screw-in cuphooks from the hardware store to make sure we could use it on the platforms. (Read my guide to the campgrounds on the Overland Track for more tips.)

The Triplex is a niche, ultralight tent, so if you’re looking for something more mainstream, I recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba. I’ve been using them for over a decade and I can’t say enough good things about them. (Well except that they aren’t cheap!)

If the Hubba Hubba isn’t in your budget, check out the MSR Elixir.

Our Zpacks Triplex at the Windermere campground

Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack

The campsites on the Overland Track are at or near 1000m elevation and it can be cold up there all year. Pack a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag rated at least 5C but preferably more like -10C. Choose one with a hood for extra warmth.

Make sure you pack your sleeping bag inside a compression sack so it takes up less space in your pack.

I recommend: I sleep cold so on the Overland Track I chose to bring my winter sleeping bag, the Therm-a-Rest Oberon. It was overkill, but I was definitely warm! I like the Outdoor Research Ultralight Compression sacks and they come in lots of sizes.

Sleeping Pad

Even the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground, a draft underneath the tent platform or a hard hut bunk. You’ll need a sleeping pad for that. Choose one that is compact, lightweight and has an R value of at least 2.5. (R value measures insulation and warmth).

If you expect cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R value.

I recommend: I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. My husband likes his NeoAir XLite which weighs less but isn’t quite as warm.

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend adding a compact camping pillow to your Overland Track packing list. Your neck will thank you.

I recommend: I use a simple MEC inflatable pillow. For a slightly more deluxe experience check out the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium.

Ear Plugs

Ear plugs are a must if you plan to sleep in the huts. You’ll be sleeping centimetres from a snoring stranger and you need to be able to get a good night’s sleep.

As well, some of the tent pads are very close to each other or to the trail.

For more info on sleeping arrangements inside the huts, read my guide to Overland Track huts and campgrounds.

I recommend: Bring a few pairs of cheap foam earplugs. You’re bound to lose some so it’s good to have extras. I like the contoured ones since I find they fit in my ears better.

Clothing

Hiking pants or tights (1 pair)

Choose quick-drying hiking pants made of nylon or polyester (and maybe with a bit of spandex for stretch). Even if it’s warm down at sea level, you’ll definitely want pants up in the chilly mountains of the Overland Track.

I recommend: I love my MEC Terrena Stretch pants. I also like the Prana Halle Pants. If you like convertible pants, the Prana Stretch Zions are a great option.

Shorts (1 pair)

Depending on when you hike the trail, the weather may be warm enough for shorts. I hiked the Overland Track in the middle of summer (started Jan 31) and I wore shorts for about half of the days.

I recommend: The Black Diamond Valley Shorts are my favourite hiking shorts, but sadly they are discontinued.

Wearing my Black Diamond Valley Shorts on the Overland Track

T-shirts (1 or 2)

I usually hike in quick-drying workout t-shirts or singlets. You could also bring a button up trekking shirt.

I recommend: I love the Patagaonia Capilene Cool Trail shirt since it looks like a regular t-shirt but wicks sweat and resists odours. But any old quick-dry polyester workout t-shirt will do. You can pick them up for cheap at big-box or mall stores.

Long sleeved shirt (1)

A long sleeved shirt is a good layer for sun protection or for a bit more warmth on cold mornings. I prefer to wear a long sleeved shirt with buttons or a zip neck so that I have venting options.

I recommend: Look for a long sleeved zip-neck or button up with UPF sun protection. In warmer weather I like a button up trekking shirt.

Fleece Jacket or Light Weight Puffy Jacket

Once the sun goes down, it can be really cold on the Overland Track. Some days its also cold enough during the day that you’ll want a warm layer you can hike in.

Pack a fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy jacket that you can layer on over a t-shirt and under your rain jacket. If you hike the Overland Track in spring or fall, opt for a warmer puffy to wear at camp in addition to a fleece.

I recommend: My husband loves his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm. It comes in a women’s version too.

Rain jacket

You definitely should pack a rain jacket for the Overland Track since it can rain or snow at any time. And even if it doesn’t rain, it will block the wind. Add a waterproof breathable rain jacket designed for hiking to your Overland Track packing list – preferably one with pit zips for venting.

I recommend: My husband and I both really love our 3 layer Gore Tex MEC Synergy Jackets. If you want something lighter and more compact, the Outdoor Research Helium II is a great option.

Rain Pants

Pack a pair of waterproof breathable rain pants that you can easily layer over top of your hiking pants. I was so glad I had mine on the Overland Track as we had one day of truly terrible weather with rain, snow, hail and high winds.

Ones with side zippers for venting are easy to put on and take off without removing your shoes.

I recommend: I have the MEC Hydrofoil Rain Pants. They have full length side zips so they aren’t as light as the popular Outdoor Research Helium Pants.

Wearing full rain gear. Shortly after this it started to snow.

Thermal Base Layers

It gets cold up high in the mountains, especially at night so make sure you pack some thermal base layers. Choose mid-weight thermals made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both bottoms and a long sleeved top.

I recommend: I sleep cold so I wear a MEC T3 base layer top with a hood and Smartwool bottoms. My husband likes Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight long underwear.

Psst! Curious if Merino wool is worth it? Read my Merino wool explainer and decide for yourself.

Sports bra

You don’t need a ton of support for trekking, so try to choose a bra without a lot of fabric layers that will take a long time to dry.

I recommend: I really like the Knixwear bras for trekking since they are super lightweight, don’t absorb too much moisture and are seamless so they don’t chafe.

Underwear (2 or 3 pairs)

I like to bring two kinds of underwear on long trips: two or three pairs of quick drying synthetic underwear for trekking and one pair of comfortable cotton underwear for wearing at night.

Seamless underwear will be way more comfortable for hiking in, since they prevent chafing. Many of the guys I hike with swear by boxer briefs with a built in pouch to prevent their package from rubbing the inner thighs.

I recommend: I wear Patagonia’s Active underwear because they’re seamless. The guys I hike with can’t stop talking about how much they love Saxx boxer briefs.

Warm Hat

Bring a fleece or wool hat that covers your ears. It can get really chilly on the Overland Track.

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

The sun can be harsh in Tasmania, especially above the tree line. Bring a wide brimmed hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses for protection.

I recommend: My go to baseball cap is the Sunday Afternoons Trucker.

I also brought the Outdoor Research Oasis Sun Sombrero wide on the Overland Track since it has a wide brim.

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they cut let you see colours that are truer to reality than what you get with regular sunglasses. I like Sunskis since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Gloves

Simple fleece or wool gloves will be enough to keep your hands warm at high elevations or on cold mornings. But if you are trekking in spring or fall, or feel the cold easily, insulated ski gloves are a better bet.

I recommend: I like wind resistant fleece gloves since they’re a bit warmer when wet.

Neck Gaiter or Buff (Optional)

When I was trekking in Nepal, my guide Chandra swore that you stayed warmer if you kept your ears covered. He often used a buff as a headband to warm his ears. It turns out that advice works well in the Tasmanian mountains too! You can also wear a buff around your neck or even as a hat.

I recommend: I bring a merino wool buff on all my hikes and was happy I packed it for the Overland Track, especially on chilly days.

Footwear

Hiking Boots

The Overland Track is muddy and rocky. Wear supportive hiking boots and make sure they are waterproof. The most important thing is to bring boots that you’ve already worn already and that are comfortable. You really want to take care of your feet.

I recommend: I love my Salmon X Ultra Mid GTX Boots.

Wearing my Salomon boots on the side trip to Hartnett Falls.

Camp Shoes (Optional)

Pack a lightweight pair of slip on sandals, thongs, or Crocs for around camp. Pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack.

I recommend: I brought lightweight flip flops (thongs) on the Overland Track. I wear them with Injinji toe socks for extra warmth!

Socks (2 or 3 pairs)

Keeping your feet happy on a hike is super important. Pack 2 or 3 pairs of wool and synthetic blend socks that fit well.

I also wear liner socks since they can help reduce the rubbing that can cause blisters.

Try your socks and boots at home before your trek to make sure they don’t cause any problems.

I recommend: I’m a recent convert to wearing Darn Tough socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever. I wear the Light Hiker Micro Crew.

For liners I love Injinji toe socks since they help prevent blisters between your toes.

Gaiters (Optional)

Most people I saw on the Overland Track wore gaiters. They are helpful to keep mud and water out of your boots in wet weather. They also offer some protection from snake bite.

I hiked the Overland Track in the middle of summer when the track was really dry. I carried a pair of short gaiters, but never wore them. If you hike in spring or fall, I’ve heard the track can get really muddy so gaiters are a must.

I recommend: I have basic Gore Tex gaiters from MEC. REI also makes good entry level waterproof breathable gaiters.

Toiletries, First Aid and Safety

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

I get travel sized tubes of toothpaste from the dentist to take on hiking trips.

Deodorant and Wet Wipes

You’ll be getting sweaty every day. Bring a small travel sized deodorant and some baby wipes for having a quick sponge bath at the end of the day.

Sunscreen and Lip Balm

The harsh Tasmanian sun can give you a sunburn in just a few minutes. Pack sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect yourself.

Insect Repellent and/or Head Net

In some places the march flies can be terrible. Bring insect repellent.

I like to wear a head net since I don’t like putting chemicals on my face. Be sure to pack a baseball cap or wide brimmed hat to wear underneath – it keeps the netting off your face.

Hair Brush and Hair Ties

If you’ve got long hair, you know why you need these.

Contact Solution and Spare Lenses

If you wear contacts, be sure to pack contact solution and extra lenses. On cold nights, sleep with your contact case inside your sleeping bag to keep them from freezing.

Menstrual Supplies

If you expect your period on the trail, be sure to pack your favourite menstrual supplies.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are composting toilets at every campsite, but toilet paper isn’t supplied. Put toilet paper on your Overland Track packing list. Put it inside a Ziploc bag to keep it dry. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands after you use the toilet and before you eat.

The composting toilet at Kia Ora.

First Aid Kit

You should pack a small first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, medical tape and a compression bandage for sprains.

You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.)

Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers, and anti-diarrhea pills just in case. And of course don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

Your first aid kit should also contain stuff to help repair your gear in case you have any problems. We packed a small multi-tool and some duct tape.

I recommend: I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

A multi-tool with a knife, pliers and scissors is always handy. I like the Leatherman Wave.

Electronics

Camera

Of course you can bring your phone to use as a camera, but you may want to bring a stand alone camera.

I recommend: I brought my Sony A6000. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

Headlamp and Extra Batteries

Bring a headlamp (aka headtorch) to find your way around after dark.

I recommend: I use a Petzl Actik. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power.

Power Bank (Optional)

If you’re bringing electronics, you’ll need a way to keep them all charged. Some people like solar chargers, but with the cloudy weather on the Overland Track, a power bank is more reliable.

I recommend: Bring a power bank that has enough storage to charge your devices at least once, but isn’t too big and heavy. The size you choose will depend on how many devices you bring, but at least 2,500mAh capacity or larger is probably a good idea.

Lantern (Optional)

If you plan to spend a lot time in the huts, you might want to bring a small battery powered lantern. They throw better light than a headlamp and create a cozy atmosphere for cooking, playing cards or hanging out.

I recommend: I have an older Black Diamond Apollo lantern. If you’re looking for something super small yet bright AND solar powered, the Luci lanterns are really cool.

Cooking Gear

Stove, Fuel, and Lighter

Fires aren’t allowed on the Overland Track so you will need to do all your cooking on a fuel stove. Bring a lightweight and compact stove and remember to bring enough fuel for your trip. Don’t forget a lighter!

I recommend: The MSR Pocket Rocket stove is incredibly lightweight and compact.

Cooking Pot

Choose lightweight camping pots. Unless you are making elaborate meals, you probably just need one pot.

I recommend: We use a Primus Primetech pot that has a built in heat exchanger that optimizes fuel consumption and protects the flame from the wind.

Bowl

I recommend: I like the Sea to Summit X Bowls since they are collapsible and I can store them inside my cooking pot.

Mug

You’ll want hot drinks to warm you up on cold evenings. A double-wall insulated mug keeps your drinks warm for longer.

I recommend: I recently upgraded to a swanky Snow Peak Titanium mug. It’s pricey, but it’s soooo light. Plus the double walls keep my morning tea toasty warm.

Some of our camp kitchen set up. The timber tent platforms have metal plates you can put your stove on for cooking.

Knife and Utensils

Bring a sharp knife for cutting, plus a spoon and fork for eating. Or get a spork – they do double duty!

I recommend: I love my Snow Peak Titanium spork. I use a classic Opinel folding knife.

Dishwashing Supplies

We carry a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth and some biodegradable soap.

Use soap sparingly and be sure to pour your dish water into the grey water pits under the rainwater tank at each campground. Don’t put soapy water directly into streams since even biodegradable soap isn’t safe to go directly into the water. (Read more about how to Leave No Trace.)

I recommend: The GSI compact scraper has a hard edge for scraping stuck on stuff and a spatula-like edge for scraping softer stuff. We use Sierra Dawn camp suds for really greasy dishes.

Food and Water

Water Treatment

There are rainwater tanks at each hut, but the water inside isn’t treated. On the Overland Track we met people who had vomiting and diarrhea from drinking untreated water from the tanks.

We filtered all the water we drank on the Overland Track, including water from the tanks. We were also glad to have the filter on some of the longer days since we could fill up from streams instead of carrying enough water to see us through to the next hut.

I recommend: We brought our Platypus Gravityworks filter. It is really easy to use since there’s no pumping or squeezing. You just hang it up and let it drip through.

Water Bottles

Bring a couple of water bottles or a hydration reservoir. There are streams at regular intervals along the track so you won’t need to carry more than 1.5 or 2 litres at a time.

I recommend: I use a Source Oudoor 2L hydration reservoir so I can keep drinking as I hike.

Food

Bring lots of high calorie food that is lightweight and compact. Don’t forget the snacks! You’ll burn more calories hiking than on a usual day so don’t be afraid to pack a little extra.

I recommend: Check out my tips for choosing the best backpacking meals and my guide to making cheap backpacking meals from grocery store ingredients.

Food Bag

To protect your food from mice, possums and other critters, you need to store your food either inside the huts or deep inside your backpack.

We used a lightweight dry bag to store our food. They are waterproof and the roll-top cuts down on odours, so animals will be less attracted to your food. We met people on the Overland Track who stored their food in plastic grocery bags that fell apart or got chewed through by critters.

I recommend: I used the SealLine Bulkhead View dry bags. They’re waterproof, they have a purge valve to squeeze out excess air and the window makes it easier to figure out what’s inside.

Optional Extra Gear

Trekking Poles

The Overland Track has a lot of steep ascents and descents as well as some rocky terrain. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills or keeping your balance in the mud. I recommend adding trekking poles to your Overland Track packing list.

I recommend: I brought my Black Diamond Trail trekking poles and was really happy to have them.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel

There are a few places to go for a quick swim along the Overland Track. All of the lakes and rivers are really COLD, but on a hot day, you might not mind.

Men can likely just wear their trekking shorts as a bathing suit. Women may want to pack a swimsuit just in case, but I usually swim in my sports bra and underwear. If you plan to swim, bring a quick-drying microfibre towel.

I recommend: I like the PackTowl microfibre towels since they dry fast. You can get away with a small one.

Tripod or Selfie Stick

The photography opportunities on the Overland Track are epic. I wish I had brought my tripod!

I recommend: If you’re trying to go really light, get a Joby Gorillapod mini tripod. You can also get an adapter that lets you use it with your phone. I also have a Sirui T-025X Carbon Fiber full-sized tripod that I wished I had brought.

Entertainment for Camp

You’ll have a few hours each night in camp when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book or some headphones to listen to music or podcasts. The huts can be really social, so a deck of cards or a compact game can be a good way to meet new friends.

I recommend: I always travel with my Amazon Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from. We’ve brought the card game Exploding Kittens on a few backpacking trips and it’s always a hit.

Ultralight Chair

All of the huts have picnic tables with benches, but they are often busy. Plus they don’t have backrests, and after a long day on the trail, you’ll really crave a chair.

I recommend: My husband and I both have the ultralight Helinox Chair One. It collapses down really small and weighs about 1kg. My husband brought his on the Overland Track but I opted to leave mine at home to save weight. I was so jealous of his!

Taking a lunch break at Lake Will in the Helinox Chair One.

Cord

A short length of paracord or string can come in handy. You can use it to create a clothesline to dry out sweaty gear or a wet towel. Or you can use it to hang damp socks off the back of your pack during the day to dry them in the sun.

I recommend: You don’t need much: 3 or 4 meters of cord should be enough. Buy: REI.

Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for the Overland Track

Here’s my list of stuff you don’t need and shouldn’t pack for your Overland Track hike:

Climbing gear: The trails are non-technical and you won’t need harnesses, ropes, crampons, etc.
Tons of outfit changes: Everyone else will be wearing the same stinky clothes over and over, so you can too. Plus it’s just too heavy to pack an outfit for every day.
Portable speakers: Most people come to the Overland Track to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down.
Saw or axe: Campfires aren’t allowed, so you won’t need to chop wood.
Your dog: Dogs are not permitted on the Overland Track

Have you walked the Overland Track? What piece of gear made the biggest difference? Which gear do you recommend other hikers add to their Overland Track packing list? Tell us in the comments.

More Overland Track posts:

The post Overland Track Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Rockwall Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring

Taryn Eyton — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 23:10:29 +0000

If you aren’t used to backpacking in the Canadian Rockies, it can be tough to figure out what to pack for the Rockwall Trail. It’s a high elevation route that crosses lots of windy, treeless mountain passes. But the camps are deep in shady valley bottoms. I hiked it in mid-August last year and came up with this Rockwall Trail packing list.

We had a bit of rain, some chilly nights, some sunny (but windy) days, and a few buggy campsites. I was happy with the gear that I brought since it wasn’t too heavy or bulky but still kept me comfortable. Read on for all the details of what to bring on the Rockwall Trail in Canada’s Kootenay National Park.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Rockwall Trail Essentials

Backcountry Camping Permit

Print out a copy of your backpacking camping permit and store it in a Ziploc bag. Rangers may ask to see it while you are on the trail. For more information on how to get Rockwall Trail permits and how much they cost, see my Rockwall Trail Guide.

National Parks Pass

You need a National Parks pass to hike the Rockwall Trail. You can buy one at entrance kiosks to the mountain National Parks, or bring your annual pass if you already have one. Leave it on your dashboard while you are hiking to avoid a ticket.

Rockwall Trail Map

Hiking the Rockwall Trail is straightforward, with signs at all junctions. For most hikers, the basic Kootenay National Park hiking map from Parks Canada is all you’ll need. The Kootenay National Park map from Gem Trek is what I used. It’s a topographic map with all the trails and campgrounds. I found it really helpful to visualize the terrain (and elevation gain) for each day.

Guidebook (Optional)

I didn’t bring a guidebook on the Rockwall Trail, but I did read a few before I left. The best one is Don’t Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies, which has a long section on the Rockwall Trail. Instead of bringing the whole book, I took photos of the most relevant pages on my phone, then looked at them on the trail.

GPS (Optional)

We used the Gaia GPS app on our phones and our Garmin GPS watches on the Rockwall Trail. It was nice to know how many kilometres we had walked and to be able to gauge how far it was to the next landmark. (Psst! Want to save 20% on a Gaia GPS annual membership, which gets you the same maps I used on the Rockwall Trail? Use this link.)

I have a Garmin vivoactive 3 GPS watch that keeps track of my distance, heart rate, etc. I swapped out the plain black band for this fun (and cheap!) blue one. My husband has a Garmin Fenix 6 that you can load maps onto, which is MUCH more helpful for hiking.

Have questions about what to bring on the Rockwall Trail? Join the Rockwall Trail Planning Facebook Group to get advice from other hikers!

Backpacks and Bags

Backpack

When looking for a backpack, choose something between 60 and 75L. Do a test pack at home to make sure you can get all your gear inside. Make sure you pick a backpack that fits you well and is comfortable to carry.

I used my new Gregory Amber 65 on the Rockwall Trail. lt was my first long trip with that pack and it was really comfortable, even under a heavy food load on the first couple of days. My husband and a friend both have the men’s version, called the Gregory Stout.

Wearing my Gregory Amber backpack near Rockwall Pass.

Stuff Sacks and Organizers

To stay organized I like to pack my gear in a combination of different sized stuff sacks. Mostly I use lightweight dry bags. It can rain out of nowhere in the Canadian Rockies, so keeping your gear dry is really important. I like the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil window dry bags. They’re waterproof but still incredibly lightweight. Plus they have a clear panel so you can see what’s inside.

Rain Protection

If your gear gets wet, it can really ruin your trip. Thankfully, on my trip, we had hardly any rain. I brought a rain cover for my backpack. Some packs come with a custom-sized rain cover. If yours didn’t, buy a lightweight silnylon one that fits your pack well.

Pro tip: If you tend to overstuff your pack or attach things to the outside, buy a slightly larger-sized rain cover.

I also lined the inside of my pack with a trash compactor bag. They are HUGE plastic garbage bags that are much more durable than a standard garbage bag since they are designed to go inside a kitchen trash compactor. Some hikers report that they can use the same one for several years before it develops holes. They are hard to find in Canada so it’s easiest to order them online.

Tent and Sleeping Gear

Tent

Since it is high in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the Rockwall Trail can see some seriously bad weather and heavy rain. You need a proper backpacking tent that is lightweight, compact, and has a full-length waterproof rain fly. This isn’t the place for a cheap, big-box store tent that will leak.

We actually brought our ultralight Zpacks Triplex on the Rockwall Trail. It’s a single wall tent, so we did have a bit of condensation inside, but for me, the weight savings were worth it.

The Triplex is a niche, ultralight tent, so if you’re looking for something more mainstream, I recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba NX. I’ve been using one for over a decade and I can’t say enough good things about it. (Well except that it isn’t cheap!) If the Hubba Hubba isn’t in your budget, check out the MSR Elixir.

Our Zpacks Triplex tent at the Tumbling Creek Campground

Tarp and Cord (Optional)

You’ll be lucky if you can hike the entire Rockwall Trail without being rained on. It’s a good idea to add a lightweight silnylon tarp to your Rockwall Trail packing list, especially if you are in a group. It’s great for cooking and hanging out under at camp. It also doubles as a great sunshade if you are lucky enough to need one.

We brought an 8’x10′ silnylon tarp that was big enough to fit our entire group of 8. You’ll also want to bring lots of cord and some extra pegs to help set it up.

Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack

The weather on the Rockwall Trail can all over the place. It can be sunny and high twenties but then plunge close to freezing with rain and wind (especially at night). I recommend packing a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag rated at least 0C, but -7C is a bit safer.

I brought my Therm-a-rest Oberon -18C bag (an older version of the Therm-a-rest Parsec -18C). It was waaay overkill, but since it is super light (only 1kg) it made sense.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the MEC Draco -9C is great and still relatively light. (It also comes in a women’s version called the Delphinus. (What’s the deal with women’s sleeping bags? Read my post when women’s specific gear is worth it to find out.)

Make sure you pack your sleeping bag inside a compression sack so it takes up less space in your pack. I like the Outdoor Research Ultralight Compression sacks since they come in lots of sizes.

Sleeping Pad

The warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold, hard ground. You’ll need a sleeping pad for that. Choose one that is compact, lightweight, and has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth).

If you expect cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value. I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. (Although it was probably overkill for the Rockwall Trail.) My husband likes his NeoAir XLite which weighs less but isn’t quite as warm.

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched-up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend adding a compact camping pillow to your Rockwall Trail packing list. Your neck will thank you. I use a simple MEC inflatable pillow.

Ear Plugs (Optional)

Some of the campsites on the Rockwall Trail are very close together, which means your tent will be a few feet from your snoring neighbours. And while you might be on an early morning schedule, inevitably the people next door will be night owls.

If you’re a light sleeper, I recommend bringing a few pairs of foam ear plugs. You’re bound to lose some so it’s good to have extras. I like the contoured ones since I find they fit in my ears better.

Clothing

Rain jacket

I can’t imagine doing the Rockwall Trail without a good rain jacket. Much of the trail is high in the mountains above the treeline, where there is no shelter from the rain. Add a waterproof breathable rain jacket designed for hiking to your Rockwall Trail packing list – preferably one with pit zips for venting. (They will keep you from overheating when you’re hiking uphill).

I didn’t get much rain on my Rockwall Trail hike, but we did get a bit. I brought my MEC Flash Cloud Gore-Tex jacket. It’s incredibly light so it didn’t take up much space in my pack on the days I didn’t wear it. If you want something less expensive but still very lightweight, the Outdoor Research Helium II is a great option.

Rain Pants

Pack a pair of waterproof breathable rain pants that you can easily layer over top of your hiking pants. I didn’t need to use mine when I hiked the Rockwall Trail, but I’ve definitely been glad to have them on cold and wet days on other mountain trips. Ones with side zippers for venting are easy to put on and take off without removing your shoes. I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants.

Wind Jacket (Optional)

I love bringing a superlight wind jacket on mountain hikes. It’s perfect to throw on over a t-shirt when I want to block the wind but don’t need much additional warmth. I have a Patagonia Houdini Jacket that packs down smaller than my fist.

Fleece Jacket or Light Weight Puffy Jacket

After dark or when the wind picks up, it can get a little cold on the Rockwall Trail. Pack a fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy jacket that you can layer on over a t-shirt and under your rain jacket. I brought my MEC Rockwall fleece jacket and wore it every night in camp. (It’s called the Rockwall – I pretty much had to bring it!)

I also brought a lightweight puffy jacket for even more warmth. I have an older version of the MEC Airstream Hoodie. My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket.

Wearing my Rockwall fleece during a break at Tumbling Pass

Hiking pants or tights (1 pair)

Choose quick-drying hiking pants made of nylon or polyester (and maybe with a bit of spandex for stretch). Many women prefer to hike in tights or leggings and since the Rockwall doesn’t have any scrambling or much brush, they would work well here.

I love my MEC Terrena Stretch pants and brought them on the Rockwall Trail. I also like the Prana Halle Pants. If you like pants that convert into shorts, the Halles come in a convertible version. The men’s version of the Prana Halle is the Stretch Zion pants.

Shorts (1 pair) (Optional)

On some days in late July and August, the weather on the Rockwall Trail is warm enough for shorts. However, some people prefer to hike the Rockwall Trail in pants no matter the season to protect from rain, bugs, and scratches. I’m a shorts person and wore shorts most days. The MEC Terrena Stretch Shorts 12″ are my favourite hiking shorts. They’re really lightweight, stretchy, and dry quickly. They also come in a men’s version called the Mochilero shorts. (My husband owns 4 pairs!)

Shirts (2)

I usually hike in quick-drying workout t-shirts. On the Rockwall Trail, I brought one short-sleeved t-shirt and one long-sleeved button-up shirt. Mostly I wore the short-sleeved shirt, but the long-sleeved shirt was great for sun protection on the hotter days with no shade.

I love the Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail t-shirt since it looks like a regular t-shirt but wicks sweat and resists odours. But any old quick-dry polyester workout t-shirt will do. For a long-sleeved shirt, I brought an old button-up hiking shirt that is lightweight and has UPF protection. The North Face First Trail UPF Shirt is similar.

Sleeping and Camp Clothes

When you get to camp, you’ll want to take off your sweaty hiking clothes and put on something a little fresher. You’ll also want something warm and dry to sleep in. I brought some lightweight long underwear. (Although, mostly I wore my fleece and hiking pants around camp, then changed into thermals just to sleep.)

For bottoms, I brought Smartwool merino wool long johns that can pass as tights so I can wear them around camp. I also brought a discontinued MEC thermal top. My husband likes Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight long underwear – they are similar to my discontinued MEC ones.

Bundled up on the shore of Floe Lake waiting for the sunrise. I’m wearing my Smartwool long underwear which can pass as tights.

Underwear (3 pairs)

I like to bring two kinds of underwear on long backpacking trips: two or three pairs of quick-drying synthetic underwear for hiking and one pair of comfortable cotton underwear for wearing at night. You don’t need a fresh pair for every day. Let them air out at camp for an afternoon or two or rinse them in a stream, then wear them again.

Seamless underwear will be way more comfortable for hiking since they prevent chafing. I love Patagonia’s Active seamless underwear.

Many of the guys I hike with swear by boxer briefs like the ones from Saxx with a built-in pouch to prevent their package from rubbing the inner thighs.

Sports Bra

You don’t need a ton of support for trekking, so try to choose a bra without a lot of fabric layers that will take a long time to dry. I really like the Knixwear bras for backpacking since they are super lightweight, don’t absorb too much moisture, and are seamless so they don’t chafe.

Toque or Buff

Bring a fleece or wool hat that covers your ears. Or bring a buff that you can wear as a hat, an ear warmer, or a neck gaiter. It can get chilly on the Rockwall Trail, especially at night or when it gets windy. I love my merino wool buff, which is cozy warm but still lightweight. I brought both a toque and buff and ended up wearing both to sleep on one chilly night.

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

The sun can be harsh on the Rockwall Trail because you are high up in the mountains with no shade Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses for protection. If you’re hiking south to north, you will have the sun at your back all day so you may want a hat that protects the back of your neck.

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they cut the glare better. I love my Sunskis since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Gloves (Optional)

Gloves are good to have for chilly nights or cold days on the trail. Simple fleece gloves are all you need for the Rockwall Trail. I only used mine at night.

Join the Rockwall Trail Facebook group

Footwear

Hiking Boots

The Rockwall Trails is not very technical – there is very little mud and hardly any rough terrain. That means that you don’t need heavy-duty boots. (Although if you aren’t used to carrying a heavy pack, boots with ankle support are a good idea.)

I wore Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX boots on the Rockwall Trail. They aren’t a full leather boot. Instead, they use a durable fabric outer and a waterproof breathable membrane. They are lightweight and not too stiff, so they didn’t feel heavy and clunky like leather boots can. They have mid-cut ankle support, which was enough for me. If you want more support, my husband wears a higher-cut version of my boots called the Salomon Quest GTX. He loves them.

Camp Shoes (Optional)

It’s nice not to wear your boots all day. Pack a lightweight pair of shoes or sandals for around camp. Pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack. I brought a pair of flip flops that I wore with toe socks. A few people in my group had Crocs, which they loved.

You can see my flip flops tucked into the side pocket of my pack (next to my blue fold up butt pad).

Socks (3 or 4 pairs)

Keeping your feet happy on the Rockwall Trail is super important. Pack 3 or 4 pairs of wool and synthetic blend socks that fit well. I also wear liner socks since they can help reduce the rubbing that can cause blisters. Try your socks and boots at home before your trek to make sure they don’t cause any problems. Air your socks out when you get to camp to keep them fresh.

In the last few years, I’ve converted to Smartwool socks. They’re comfortable and don’t make me overheat. I wear the Smartwool Performance Light socks. For liners, I love Injinji toe socks since they help prevent blisters between your toes.

Toiletries

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

I get travel-sized tubes of toothpaste from the dentist to take on hiking trips. I also use a Carry Clean toothbrush. It splits into two pieces, then you can nest the head inside the handle to keep it clean. AND it’s a lot shorter so it’s easier to fit into a smaller toiletry bag.

Deodorant, Baby Wipes, and Face Cloth

You’ll be getting sweaty every day. Bring a small travel-sized deodorant and some baby wipes for having a quick sponge bath at the end of the day. I also brought a small quick-dry face cloth. I got it wet in the creeks, then used it to give my face and stinky parts a quick wipe down.

Sunscreen and Lip Balm

Pack sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect yourself from the sun. I brought a Sun Bum sunscreen stick. It was really easy to just swipe an extra layer of sunscreen on my nose and cheeks without getting it all over my hands.

Bug Spray and/or Head Net (Optional)

The bug situation on the Rockwall Trail depends on when you go. In July and early August, the mosquitos and black flies can be bad, especially in the campsites. We hiked in mid-August and they were non-existent in the mountain passes but a bit annoying in camp.

I didn’t use bug spray but some of my group did. I wore my head net a few nights in camp when we sat around chatting as it got dark. I would definitely recommend adding bug spray or a head net to your Rockwall Trail packing list.

Hair Brush and Hair Ties

If you’ve got long hair, you know why you need these.

Glasses, Contact Solution, and Spare Lenses

If you wear contacts, be sure to pack contact solution and extra lenses.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are outhouses at every campsite, but toilet paper isn’t supplied. Put toilet paper on your Rockwall Trail packing list. Put it inside a Ziploc bag to keep it dry. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands after you use the toilet and before you eat.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

First Aid and Safety

First Aid Kit

You should pack a small first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, medical tape, and a compression bandage for sprains. You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.) Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers, and anti-diarrhea pills just in case. And of course, don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids

Your first aid kit should also contain stuff to help repair your gear in case you have any problems. We packed a small multi-tool and some gear repair tape.

Bear Spray

The Rockwall Trail is home to grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and cougars. But you’re more likely to see tracks and poop than the animals themselves. (Surprisingly, we didn’t even see any bear poop, let alone bears on our Rockwall Trail hike.)

Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking. Buy bear spray and a holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt. I’ve got lots more tips for hiking and camping in bear country in this post.

Satellite Communication Device

We bring our Garmin inReach Mini on every backpacking trip. It’s a satellite communication device that let’s us call for search and rescue or medical help with the push of a button. Our family at home can also watch our progress on a map, which they love. We also sometimes use it to text family members or emergency contacts if our plans change.

It’s expensive and requires an annual subscription, but we think it’s worth it for the additional peace of mind it provides. If you’re concerned about safety, a satellite communication device should be on your Rockwall Trail packing list.

Electronics

Camera

Of course, you can bring your phone to use as a camera, but you may want to bring a stand-alone camera. I brought my Sony A6000. It’s a mirrorless camera that is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. It’s easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive. I use a Peak Design Capture clip to carry it on the shoulder strap of my pack so it’s easy to grab. I also brought my GoPro Hero 7 Black to shoot some fun video footage on the trip.

Headlamp

Bring a headlamp to find your way around after dark. I brought the Petzl Bindi. It’s TINY yet still quite bright. Plus it’s USB rechargeable, which is so much more convenient than buying AA batteries.

Power Bank/Portable Charger (Optional)

If you’re bringing electronics, you’ll need a way to keep them all charged. Some people like solar chargers, but with the unpredictable weather on the Rockwall, a power bank is more reliable. Bring a power bank that has enough storage to charge your devices at least once, but isn’t too big and heavy. The size you choose will depend on how many devices you bring, but at least 2,500mAh capacity or larger is probably a good idea.

Cooking Gear

Stove, Fuel, and Lighter

Fires aren’t allowed at most campsites on the Rockwall Trail. Plan to cook on a lightweight and compact backpacking stove. And don’t forget a lighter! Our friends brought their tiny Pocket Rocket Deluxe stove, which uses disposable fuel canisters. We have one too, but we opted to bring our Primus Omnifuel stove on the Rockwall. Since it was a longer trip, we wanted to bring a white gas stove so we could carry the exact amount of fuel we needed and not have to pack out empty canisters.

Cooking Pot

Choose lightweight camping pots. Unless you are making elaborate meals, you probably just need one pot. We use a Primus Primetech pot that has a built-in heat exchanger that optimizes fuel consumption and protects the flame from the wind.

Bowl & Mug

I like the Sea to Summit X Bowls since they are collapsible and I can store them inside my cooking pot. You’ll want hot drinks to warm you up on cold evenings. I recently upgraded to a swanky Snow Peak Titanium double wall mug. It’s pricey, but it’s soooo light. Plus the double walls keep my morning tea toasty warm.

Knife and Utensils

Bring a sharp knife for cutting, plus a spoon and fork for eating. Or get a spork – they do double duty! I love my Snow Peak Titanium spork.

Our friend’s camp kitchen set-up at Tumbling Creek camp

Dishwashing Supplies

We carry a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth, and some biodegradable soap. Use soap sparingly and be sure to pour your dishwater into a cat hole. Don’t put soapy water directly into streams since even biodegradable soap isn’t safe to go directly into the water. (Read more about how to Leave No Trace.)

The GSI compact scraper has a hard edge for scraping stuck-on stuff and a spatula-like edge for scraping softer stuff. We use Dr. Bronner’s for really greasy dishes and the rest of the time we skip soap and just use warm water and a scraper.

Food and Water

Water Treatment

You need to treat all the water you drink on the Rockwall Trail. The streams might look clean, but there could be animals and humans upstream who poop. We brought our Platypus Gravityworks filter. It is really easy to use since there’s no pumping or squeezing. You just hang it up and let it drip through.

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir

Bring a couple of water bottles or a hydration reservoir. On some stretches of trail, you’ll go a few hours without reaching a water source. I brought a Platypus Big Zip Evo 3L reservoir. Most days I just put 1 or 1.5L in it in the morning, then filtered more when we stopped for lunch.

Food

Bring lots of high-calorie food that is lightweight and compact. Don’t forget the snacks! You’ll burn more calories hiking than on a usual day so don’t be afraid to pack a little extra. Check out my tips for choosing the best backpacking meals and my guide to making cheap backpacking meals from grocery store ingredients.

Food Bag

To protect your food from bears and other critters, you need to store your food inside metal food lockers at each campground.

We used a lightweight dry bag to store our food. They are waterproof and the roll-top cuts down on odours, so animals will be less attracted to your food. We used two SealLine Bulkhead View dry bags. They have a purge valve to squeeze out excess air and the window makes it easier to figure out what’s inside.

Optional Extra Gear

Trekking Poles

The Rockwall Trail has a few steep ascents and descent where trekking poles can be helpful to save your knees. I bought trekking poles for my first West Coast Trail hike back in 2004 and have been a convert to them ever since. If you already use trekking poles, definitely consider taking them on the Rockwall Trail. I brought my Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles and was really happy to have them.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel

Although it’s icy cold, some people go for a brave swim in Floe Lake. Men can likely just wear their trekking shorts as a bathing suit. Women may want to bring a swimsuit just in case, but I usually swim in my sports bra and underwear. If you plan to swim, bring a quick-drying microfibre towel. I like the PackTowl microfibre towels since they dry fast. You can get away with a small one.

A brave swimmer at Floe Lake

Entertainment for Camp

You’ll have a few hours each night in camp when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book or some headphones to listen to music or podcasts. I always travel with my Amazon Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from. We’ve brought the card game Exploding Kittens on a few backpacking trips and it’s always a hit.

Ultralight Chair or Seat

After a long day of hiking, you don’t always want to sit on the ground. My husband and I both have the ultralight Helinox Chair One. It collapses down really small and weighs about 1kg. (You can find cheaper knock-off versions on Amazon too!) My husband and a friend brought theirs on the Rockwall Trail but I opted to leave mine at home to save weight.

Instead, I brought a tiny folding Thermarest Z Seat foam bum pad. It was nice to have a dry place to sit at all times. And at only 60g, I saved a LOT of weight compared to a chair.

My husband Greg taking a break in his chair near Tumbling Pass

Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for the Rockwall Trail

Here’s my list of stuff you don’t need and shouldn’t pack for the Rockwall Trail:

Tons of outfit changes: Everyone else will be wearing the same stinky clothes over and over, so you can too. Plus it’s just too heavy to pack an outfit for every day.
Portable speakers: Most people come to the Rockwall Trail to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down.
A gun: They aren’t allowed on the Rockwall Trail.
Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park unless you have a special use permit.

Join the Rockwall Trail Facebook group

Have you hiked the Rockwall Trail? What piece of gear made the biggest difference? Which gear do you recommend other hikers add to their Rockwall Trail packing list? Tell us in the comments.

Have questions about what to bring on the Rockwall Trail? Join the Rockwall Trail Planning Facebook Group to get advice from other hikers!

More Bucket-List Worthy Canadian Hiking Trips:

Must-Have Backpacking Advice:

The post Rockwall Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking

Taryn Eyton — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 23:12:29 +0000

I’ve been backpacking for nearly 20 years, but I still remember my first backpacking trip. I had no idea what I needed to pack and the whole process of choosing gear seemed daunting. But it doesn’t have to be! I’ve put together a super-simple backpacking checklist for you. It lists out all the gear you’ll need to bring on your next backpacking trip.

This backpacking gear checklist is just a starting point. You’ll need to customize it a bit depending on the type of trip you are planning. If your hike is longer or the weather is bad, you might need more gear, clothing, and food. No matter how long or short your trip is, don’t forget to bring the 10 essentials – crucial safety items you should bring on every hike.

When you’re getting backpacking gear, keep weight and bulk in mind. In general, your total weight shouldn’t be more than 15-20% of your body weight. In practice, that means your pack should weigh somewhere between 25 and 40 pounds.

However, it’s really easy to accidentally carry more. You’ll need to balance having enough gear to be safe and comfortable against carrying a pack that is too heavy. Read my tips for reducing your backpack weight for more details.

And all that new gear can be really expensive! But it doesn’t have to be: read my tips for saving money on hiking and backpacking gear.

Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I’ve done dozens of backpacking trips over the years. Most of my trips have been near home in British Columbia and Washington, but I’ve also backpacked all over the world in Nepal, Iceland, and Australia.

I also spent nearly a decade working in the outdoor industry. I worked as a front-line retail staff member in an outdoor store for a few years, helping customers choose tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and more. More recently, I spent six years writing about gear for a large outdoor retailer. I designed staff training materials and wrote how to choose gear articles and product descriptions for their website. For those six years, I was absolutely immersed in outdoor gear.

So between my boots-on-the-ground experience and my industry experience, I’m kind of a backpacking gear expert at this point. If you’re interested in which gear I use personally, check out my personal list of gear I use.

Basic Backpacking Gear

These are the main items you’ll need to go backpacking. They are also usually the heaviest items on a backpacking checklist, and sometimes the most expensive. If you’re looking to invest in backpacking gear, splurge on a quality lightweight backpacking tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, or backpack. If you can save weight on these items, it can make a big difference.

Backpack: 50-75L backpacking pack that fits you well. Make sure you can fit all your gear inside.

Backpack Rain Cover or Liner: I never travel without a backpack rain cover since I like having dry gear. But if you’re hiking in an arid climate or taking a short trip with a good weather forecast, you could skip it.

Tent: Lightweight 3-season backpacking tent with a full-length rainfly, stakes, and guylines. Now is not the time to cheap out on a big box store tent.

Sleeping Bag: Lightweight backpacking sleeping bag. If you’re going to the mountains, choose one rated at least 0C/32F.

Compression Stuff Sack: To make your sleeping bag more compact inside your backpack.

Sleeping Pad: Lightweight and compact backpacking-style sleeping pad with an R-value of at least 2.5

Backpacking at Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park in the Kootenay Mountains of British Columbia

Essentials and Safety Gear for Backpacking

Carrying safety gear is non-negotiable on a backpacking trip. No one plans to get lost or injured, but it happens. These essentials can help prevent incidents and also ensures you’ll be prepared for an emergency if it happens. Make sure you add these safety items to your backpacking checklist.

Headlamp and extra batteries: You don’t need a fancy or extra-bright headlamp or flashlight. A quality headlamp that is reliable and has fresh batteries is more important than features.

Compass, paper maps, and GPS: Carry maps inside a plastic bag to protect them from water. A GPS device or app is helpful but it’s not a substitute for a paper map and compass. If you use a GPS device or phone app, bring extra batteries.

Trail description: Carry paper printouts or photocopies of guidebook pages or trail descriptions. Or bring an electronic version on your phone via PDF, photo, or an app.

Watch: A simple wristwatch (or a phone or another electronic device that tells the time) is helpful for planning hiking time and using with a tide table on coastal hikes like the West Coast Trail.

Emergency Communication: Bring a whistle as well as an electronic means of communication like a cell phone with a battery bank. In remote areas, a satellite messenger like a Garmin inReach or SPOT is a good idea.

Bear Spray: Always carry it securely attached to the outside of your backpack where you can reach it easily without taking your pack off.

First Aid Kit: Store-bought kits are fine, but you may want to add your own painkillers and prescription medication. It’s also a good idea to pack lots of blister dressings just in case. Read my tips for preventing and treating blisters.

Repair Kit: Carry a multi-tool and some duct tape or repair tape to fix broken gear. A tent pole splint is also a good idea.

Permits: In some areas, you need a permit, pass, or reservation. Bring a paper copy of yours in a plastic bag or a screenshot on your phone.

Wallet and ID: Don’t leave these in the car – they are tempting for thieves. And if you have an emergency and need to be rescued, you’ll be happy to have your wallet and ID with you.

Trip Plan: Leave a detailed trip plan with a friend. That way, if you don’t come home on time, Search and Rescue will know where to look for you. Adventure Smart has some great trip plan templates you can use.

Measuring wolf tracks on the beach on the West Coast Trail. I’m wearing a Garmin GPS watch.

Backpacking Clothing and Footwear

In general, clothing for backpacking should be made of synthetic fabrics or merino wool that dry quickly. (Read my Merino wool guide to find out if it’s worth it.) Avoid cotton as it won’t keep you warm when wet and takes forever to dry. Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Remember that it is often much colder and wetter in the mountains than it is in the city.

Clothing is one area where backpackers tend to overpack. You really only need one outfit to hike in and one outfit to sleep in, plus some layers to add warmth or waterproofing. If your hiking clothes get sweaty and stinky, don’t worry about it. They’ll dry overnight and everyone else will smell bad too 🙂 Don’t add too many clothes to your backpacking checklist.

Waterproof breathable jacket and pants: Choose a lightweight and compact rain jacket and pants made of waterproof breathable material. The pants could be optional in arid climates or on short trips with a good forecast.

Lightweight puffy or fleece jacket: In warm conditions, you could bring one or the other, but in chillier weather, you might want both.

Quick-drying t-shirt(s): Choose a tee made of synthetic material that dries quickly. On most trips, just one short-sleeved shirt should be enough. But you may want to bring a long-sleeved shirt as well if you expect chillier weather or to wear for extra sun protection.

Hiking pants and/or shorts: Bring quick-drying hiking pants or shorts. Depending on the weather, you may want both pants and shorts. (Psst! Read my guide to hiking leggings and my guide to hiking pants.)

Midweight base layer top and bottoms: Also known as long under, you can wear base layers under your clothing to add warmth on cold days, around camp, and as sleeping clothes. Choose ones made of synthetic fabrics or merino wool.

Quick-drying underwear and sports bra: Regular cotton underwear absorbs sweat, which can be uncomfortable and chafe. Cotton underwear also takes a very long time to dry. (Read my guide to choosing backpacking underwear – it has picks for the best hiking under for women and men.)

Hats: Bring both a fleece or wool beanie (toque if you’re Canadian) for chilly weather and a baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off your face.

Gloves: Even on warm trips, I pack a pair of lightweight fleece gloves just in case. It’s often chilly at night in the mountains.

Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from glare, especially on snowy slopes.

Hiking socks: Choose ones made with synthetics and/or merino wool.

Hiking boots: There are lots of options out there. The most important thing is finding boots that fit you. You don’t want blisters! (But just in case, here are my tips for preventing blisters.)

Backpacking near Whistler wearing my usual summer hiking outfit: baseball cap, quick-drying t-shirt with lightweight long-sleeved sun shirt over top, hiking shorts, merino wool socks, and hiking boots.

Backpacking Kitchen Gear and Food

The type of cooking you do will determine what kind of backpacking kitchen set-up you choose. But this isn’t the time to get too fancy – you don’t need all kinds of pots, pans, and gadgets. Keep it simple, lightweight, and compact.

Stove and Fuel: Bring a small and lightweight stove designed for backpacking. Make sure you have enough fuel for your trip.

Pots: Bring a lightweight pot designed for backpacking. If you’re just boiling water you only need one pot. If you’re cooking something more complicated, you might need two pots or perhaps a frying pan. Keep your set-up lightweight and simple.

Firestarter: Bring a lighter, matches, or fire steel to start your stove. Bring a backup just in case.

Eating and Cooking Utensils and Dishes: Bring a lightweight fork or spork, pocket knife, bowl, and mug.

Food: Bring lightweight, compact, and calorie-dense food that is easy to cook. For more info, check out my post about how to choose the best backpacking meals and my guide to making cheap backpacking meals with grocery store ingredients.

Food Bag and Rope or Bear Canister: Bring 40-50′ (12-15m) of lightweight rope to hang your food. Pack your food in a lightweight and waterproof bag like a roll-top stuff sack to protect it from the elements. In some areas, park regulations may require you to use a bear canister.

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir: Choose lightweight bottles or reservoirs and ensure you have at least 2L capacity in total.

Water Treatment: There are lots of good water treatment and purification options out there including pump filters, drops, tablets, UV-light, gravity filters, and squeeze filters.

Biodegradable Soap and Cloth: Pack a tiny amount of biodegradable soap and a lightweight microfibre cloth to clean your dishes. Remember that biodegradable soap needs to filter through soil to work, so never wash dishes directly in a water source. To learn more, check out my post about how to Leave No Trace.

Most of our simple backpacking kitchen gear set-up on the Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia

Toiletries for Backpacking

Keeping clean on the trail can make you feel better and smell better. But the real benefit to backcountry hygiene is keeping you healthy. Leave your usual toiletries at home and just bring add these basics to your backpacking checklist.

Sunscreen and SPF lip balm: Sunburns can be debilitating.

Bug spray and/or head net: Keep the mosquitos and black flies away. Depending on where you hike and how sensitive you are to bugs, this could be an optional item for some people.

Toothbrush and toothpaste: Choose travel-sized ones.

Deodorant: Some people may see this as optional, but if you bring it, travel-sized is best.

Trowel, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper: In most places, you’ll have to BYO toilet paper and on some trails, there isn’t a toilet at all. Bring your own supplies, plus a plastic bag to pack out used toilet paper. Learn more about how to go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way.

Menstrual supplies: Pads, tampons, or a menstrual cup. Learn more about how to hike and camp with your period.

My bathroom kit: toilet paper, hand sanitizer, trowel, pee cloth, and plastic bag to pack out used toilet paper.

Optional Gear

Bringing these items along on a backpacking trip can add to your comfort. But if you bring too many of them, the extra weight will slow you down and take away from your enjoyment of the trip. Choose your optional items wisely – don’t add them all to your backpacking checklist!

Trekking poles: These add stability on uneven terrain and can save your knees on descents, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load. I always bring my trekking poles backpacking.

Pillow: You can use a balled-up fleece or puffy jacket, but I sleep better with an ultralight backpacking pillow.

Tarp and Guylines: On rainy trips, it’s nice to have a lightweight tarp to cover your cooking area. Get one made of silnylon to save weight. The 8’x10′ size is best for small groups.

Butt Pad or Ultralight Chair: It can be nice to have something to sit on in camp. Pack a lightweight foam butt pad or an ultralight collapsable backpacking chair.

Book or eReader: To pass time in the evenings. I have an Amazon Kindle since it’s lighter than a paperback book but contains dozens of books.

Camera Gear: Traditional camera gear is heavy. I use a lightweight Sony mirrorless camera and a carbon fibre tripod.

Ear Plugs: In some areas, tent sites are very close together and the snoring is LOUD.

Small Microfibre Towel: You can use a small, lightweight, and quick-drying microfibre towel to wash your face, mop up sweat, or dry off after a swim. I use a tiny face-cloth sized one.

Swimsuit: Lots of people are ok with swimming in their underwear, sports bra, shorts, t-shirt, etc. in the backcountry. But some hikers prefer to bring a swimsuit.

Wipes: These can be great for cleaning up after a sweaty day on the trail. But keep in mind that you’ll have to pack them out with you and since they’re disposable, they aren’t very environmentally friendly.

Collapsible Day Pack: If you’re doing day hikes from a backcountry basecamp, one of these is handy.

Sandals or camp shoes: It can be nice to have comfy shoes to wear once you get to camp. And some hikers like to bring sandals to wear for stream crossings.

Power bank and charging cables: It’s easier if you can use a power bank to charge all your devices, rather than bringing specific batteries for each one.

Stuff Sacks: Use lightweight stuff sacks to keep your gear organized.

My friend M’s ultralight Helinox chair set up for a snack break on the West Coast Trail.

So that’s my simple backpacking checklist. It includes everything you should bring backpacking along with a few tips for choosing gear. If you’re a beginner backpacker, here are a few other posts to read to get you started:

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West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring

Taryn Eyton — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 22:26:12 +0000

Packing for the West Coast Trail can be a little bit confusing. Your pack needs to be light, but it also needs to contain everything you need, including lots of food and waterproof gear.

The first time I hiked the West Coast Trail in 2004 I was really inexperienced and used mostly borrowed gear. My pack was really heavy and I brought waaay too much clothing.

On my second trip in 2019, I did lots of gear research. I managed to put together a backpack full of gear that wasn’t too heavy or bulky but still kept me dry in the wet West Coast weather. In general, I was really happy with what I brought.

Here’s my complete West Coast Trail packing list. It includes everything you should bring on the West Coast Trail, plus my specific recommendations for gear.

Heads up: You can also use my West Coast Trail packing for the North Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca Trail, and the Cape Scott Trail.

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO? Check out these posts:

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

West Coast Trail Pack Weight

Before we get into my West Coast Trail packing list, I wanted to take a minute to talk about pack weight.

Even if you’re an experienced backpacker, the West Coast Trail is unusual: it’s a long trip (typically 7 days) and it involves ladders, tons of mud, lots of rain, technical terrain and beach walking – things you don’t find on most other backpacking trips. There can be a bit of a temptation to overpack for a bunch of just-in-case scenarios.

And yes, you do want to make sure you are prepared and you don’t leave behind anything crucial. But at the same time, you want to make sure you aren’t carrying a ridiculous amount of weight.

In general, Parks Canada recommends that you pack weight 15-20% of your body weight. In practice, that means your pack should weigh somewhere between 25 and 40 pounds. However, it’s really easy to accidentally carry more.

On my 2019 West Coast Trail trip my friends and I’s packs weighed between 35 and 60 pounds. And we all agreed we could have shaved down our pack weight more and had a better time. Especially the guy who carried the 60-pound pack – it contained sooo much extra food!

(For reference, my pack weighed 37 pounds on day 1 and 27 pounds on the last day. Apparently I carried a LOT of food.)

Carrying my full pack up a ladder

Tips for Reducing Pack Weight on the West Coat Trail

Here are my main tips for reducing pack weight:

Go lightweight for your big items: sleeping bag, tent, backpack, and sleeping pad
Don’t bring too many clothes on the West Coast Trail. You don’t need fresh underwear every day! You don’t need clean clothes!
Think about the coldest temperature you’ll face. Put together a combination of clothing layers could you wear in that temperature and stay warm. And then don’t pack more clothes than that.
Save weight on food. Look at calorie counts and weight carefully.
Forego luxuries. Leave the chair, hammock, heavy camera lenses, etc. at home.
Share gear with your group. Together you only need one tarp, first aid kit, water filter, etc.

We actually have a basic luggage scale we use to weigh our packs. We put it in the car so we can weigh packs at the start of backpacking trips. It’s this one.

On the West Coast Trail there are scales you can use to weigh your pack on the front porch of the Pachena Bay ranger station, at Butch’s dock on Gordon River, and at the Crab Shack at Nitinaht Narrows.

Want more tips? I have a whole post about how to reduce your pack weight!

West Coast Trail Essentials

Trail Permit

When you check-in at the ranger station during your orientation session, the ranger will give you a small paper permit. It’s not waterproof so bring a ziploc bag to keep it in. When you take the ferries at Gordon River and Nitinaht Narrows, the ferry operator will ask to see your permit. If you don’t have your permit, you can’t get on the ferry.

For more information on how to make a West Coast Trail reservation, get permits and how much they cost, see my Guide to the West Coast Trail.

National Parks Pass

You need a National Parks pass to hike the West Coast Trail. You can buy one when you check-in to start the trail, or bring your annual pass if you already have one. They aren’t waterproof, so stick them in the same ziploc bag you put your permit in.

West Coast Trail Map

Pretty much the most important thing you will carry on the entire West Coast Trail is your map. When you check-in at your orientation session, the ranger will give you a waterproof copy of the trail map. You will want to refer to it multiple times a day to see how far away campsites and water sources are or to figure out if you should take the beach route or the forest route.

Tide Table

The second most important thing you need on the West Coast Trail is a tide table. The park ranger will tape a basic tide table to your West Coast Trail map. HOWEVER… it’s basic. Too basic. All it has are the daily high and low tides. AND it hasn’t been adjusted for daylight savings time so if you choose to use it you’ll have to mentally add an hour to the times.

A MUCH better option is to bring your own tide table. You can print out a tide table from Fisheries and Oceans Canada that IS adjusted for daylight savings time AND has the hourly predicted tide height for every hour of the day. No more guessing!

Print out the Tofino tide table, then put it in your trusty ziploc bag. (If like me you’re a nerd and you were wondering why Parks Canada recommends using the Tofino tide table and not the Port Renfrew or Bamfield tide tables (which are closer to the trail), it’s because Tofino is more open ocean conditions similar to what you get on the WCT. Port Renfrew and Bamfield are both in long inlets that have different tidal behaviour. The more you know, right?)

Bring a tide table is one of my top coastal hiking tips.

Watch or Cell Phone

Having a tide table is pretty much useless without a way to tell time. Bring a watch or use your phone to tell the time. If you use your phone, make sure you close all the apps you aren’t using, put it in airplane mode, and turn on power-saving mode so you maximize battery life. We carried a small battery pack to recharge our phones and were glad to have it.

Wolf tracks on the beach near Cribs Creek. I’m wearing my Garmin GPS watch.

Guidebook (Optional)

I didn’t bring a guidebook on the West Coast Trail, but I did read a few before I left. I used Blisters and Bliss: A Trekker’s Guide to the West Coast Trail, and Hiking the West Coast of Vancouver Island, which has a long section on the West Coast Trail. Instead of bringing the whole book, I took photos of the most relevant pages on my phone, then looked at them on the trail.

GPS (Optional)

We used the Gaia GPS app on our phones and our Garmin GPS watches on the West Coast Trail. It was nice to know how far we had walked and to be able to gauge how far it was to the next landmark.

We also used our GPS to figure out that the kilometre markers on the West Coast Trail are usually not in the right place. When we felt tired, we could look at our GPS and see that while we thought we would be walking 10km, we had actually walked 12 or more! It made us feel a bit better about ourselves!

(Psst! Want to save 20% on a Gaia GPS premium annual membership, which gets you the same maps I used on the West Coast Trail? Use this link.)

I have a Garmin vivoactive 3 that keeps track of my distance, heart rate, etc. I swapped out the plain black band for this fun (and cheap!) blue one. My husband has a Garmin Fenix 5 that you can load maps on to, which is MUCH more helpful for hiking.

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Backpacks and Bags

Backpack

When looking for a backpack, choose something between 60 and 75L. Do a test pack at home to make sure all your gear fits. Make sure you pick a backpack that fits you well and is comfortable to carry.

I used my old (and discontinued) Boreas Lost Coast 60 on the West Coast Trail. My husband and a couple of our friends brought their Gregory Stout 75 and Gregory Amber 60 (the women’s version). In general, they said the packs were comfortable, even under heavy loads.

Some of my friends with their Gregory backpacks.

Stuff Sacks and Organizers

To stay organized I like to pack my gear in a combination of different sized stuff sacks. Mostly I use lightweight dry bags. It can rain a LOT on the West Coast Trail so keeping your gear dry is really important.

I like the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil window dry bags. They’re waterproof but still incredibly lightweight. Plus they have a clear panel so you can see what’s inside.

Rain Protection

If your gear gets wet, it can really ruin your trip. Thankfully, on my trip, we had hardly any rain. However, the week before there was record-setting rainfall – almost 100mm in one day!

I brought a rain cover for my backpack. Some packs come with a custom-sized rain cover. If yours didn’t, buy a lightweight silnylon one that fits your pack well. Pro tip: If you tend to overstuff your pack or attach things to the outside, buy a slightly larger sized rain cover.

Tent and Sleeping Gear

Tent

The West Coast Trail sees some serious bad weather and heavy rain. You need a proper backpacking tent that is lightweight, compact and has a full-length waterproof rain fly. This isn’t the place for a cheap, big-box store tent that will leak.

We actually brought our ultralight Zpacks Triplex on the West Coast Trail. It’s a single wall tent, so we did have a bit of condensation inside, but for me, the weight savings were worth it.

Our sleeping set up on the West Coast Trail.

Tent Pegs

Most of the campgrounds are the West Coast Trail are sandy, which can make it difficult to peg out a tent. (See my guide to camping on the West Coast Trail for more info on what the campgrounds are like.)

You can bring the regular pegs that came with your tent, but be prepared to put rocks on top of them to make sure they stay put in the soft sand. Another option is snow stakes (which double as sand stakes), but they are pretty heavy so I opted not to bring them.

You may also want to bring a few extra lengths of guyline. Tie your tent out to rocks or pieces of driftwood. My Zpacks tent is not free-standing, which means it needs to be guyed out really well to stand up properly. We brought a few cheap hardware store screw-in eyelets. Screw them into a handy piece of driftwood, tie on the guyline. Easy-peasy.

Tarp and Cord (Optional)

You’ll be lucky if you can hike the entire West Coast Trail without being rained on. It’s a good idea to add a lightweight silnylon tarp to your West Coast Trail packing list. It’s great for cooking and hanging out under at camp. It also doubles as a great sunshade if you are lucky enough to need one.

We brought an 8’x10′ RAB Siltarp 2 that was big enough to fit our entire group. You’ll also want to bring lots of cord and some extra pegs to help set it up.

Our campsite at Tsusiat Falls. You can see our green siltarp we used as a sunshade.

Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack

The weather on the West Coast Trail is pretty mild. It’s never too cold, but it’s also never too hot either. (Check out the weather section of my Ultimate Guide to the West Coast Trail for more info.) I recommend packing a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag rated at least +10C but preferably more like 0C.

Many people say you need to use a synthetic sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail since down bags don’t keep you warm when they get wet.

I don’t agree. I think you can use a down or a synthetic sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail. I’ve used a down sleeping bag on both my trips and countless other wet British Columbia backpacking trips.

If you use a quality waterproof tent, pack your sleeping bag inside a water-resistant stuff sack or dry bag, wrap that stuff sack in a garbage bag, use a pack liner and a rain cover, it’s pretty hard to get your sleeping bag wet. I wouldn’t worry about your down bag if you take care of it properly.

I used a really old MEC sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail that is rated about 0C. (It’s the predecessor to the MEC Talon.) It was warm enough at night that I never needed to zip it up all the way. My friend brought her new Therm-a-rest Space Cowboy +7C sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail. She was impressed at how small it packed down and how warm it was.

Make sure you pack your sleeping bag inside a compression sack so it takes up less space in your pack. I like the Outdoor Research Ultralight Compression sacks since they come in lots of sizes.

Sleeping Pad

While all the West Coast Trail campsites are on the sand, it’s not always soft and the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. You’ll need a sleeping pad for that. Choose one that is compact, lightweight and has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth).

If you expect cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value. I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. (Although it was probably overkill for the West Coast Trail.) My husband likes his NeoAir XLite which weighs less but isn’t quite as warm.

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend adding a compact camping pillow to your West Coast Trail packing list. Your neck will thank you. I use a simple MEC inflatable pillow. For a slightly more deluxe experience check out the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium.

Ear Plugs (Optional)

Some of the West Coast Trail campsites get really crowded, which means your tent will be a few feet from your snoring neighbours. And while you might be on an early morning schedule, inevitably the people next door will be night owls. And there’s the sound of the waves. It might sound soothing at first, but it can be LOUD.

Clothing

Rain jacket

I can’t imagine doing the West Coast Trail without a good rain jacket. And even if it doesn’t rain, it will block the wind. Add a waterproof breathable rain jacket designed for hiking to your West Coast Trail packing list – preferably one with pit zips for venting. It’s HUMID out there.

I didn’t get much rain on my most recent West Coast Trail hike, but we did get a bit. I brought my new MEC Flash Cloud Gore-Tex jacket. It’s incredibly light so it didn’t take up much space in my pack on the days I didn’t wear it.

If you want something less expensive but still very lightweight, the Outdoor Research Helium II is a great option.

READ NEXT: Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

Wearing my rain jacket during a brief rain shower at Camper Bay

Rain Pants

Pack a pair of waterproof breathable rain pants that you can easily layer over top of your hiking pants. I didn’t need to use mine the last time I hiked the West Coast Trail, but I’ve definitely been glad to have them on cold and wet days in the past. Ones with side zippers for venting are easy to put on and take off without removing your shoes.

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants. They have full-length side zips so they aren’t as light as the popular Outdoor Research Helium Pants.

Fleece Jacket or Light Weight Puffy Jacket

After dark or when the wind picks up, it can get a little cold on the West Coast Trail. Pack a fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy jacket that you can layer on over a t-shirt and under your rain jacket.

I brought my MEC Rockwall fleece jacket and wore it every night in camp. My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. He wore it in camp on a few of the colder nights. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm. It comes in a women’s version too.

Wearing my MEC Rockwall fleece at Tsusiat Falls camp

Hiking pants or tights (1 pair)

Choose quick-drying hiking pants made of nylon or polyester (and maybe with a bit of spandex for stretch).

Many women prefer to hike in tights or leggings, but I wouldn’t recommend them for this hike since they are prone to tearing and snagging. You’ll be doing lots of scrambling across rocks, dodging brush and even butt scooting on logs. It’s waaaay too easy to tear leggings that way.

However, you can buy reinforced hiking tights that could work on the WCT. Read my guide to the best hiking leggings for recommendations.

I love my MEC Terrena Stretch pants and brought them on the West Coast Trail. I also like the Prana Halle Pants. If you like pants that convert into shorts, the Halles come in a convertible version. The men’s version of the Prana Halle are the Stretch Zion pants.

Shorts (1 pair) (Optional)

In July and August, the weather on the West Coast Trail is warm enough for shorts. You may find you want shorts in May, June, and September too. However, some people prefer to hike the West Coast Trail in pants no matter the season to protect from rain, bugs, and scratches.

I’m a shorts person and wore shorts every day on both of my West Coast Trail hikes. The Black Diamond Valley Shorts are my favourite hiking shorts. They’re really lightweight, stretchy, dry quickly and aren’t too short. They also come in a men’s version.

Checking out the waterfall at Bonilla Point. I wore this outfit every single day on the West Coast Trail

Shirts (2)

I usually hike in quick-drying workout t-shirts. On the West Coast Trail, I brought one short-sleeved t-shirt and one long-sleeved button-up shirt.

Mostly I wore the short-sleeved shirt, but the long-sleeved shirt was great for sun protection on the hotter beach days. I also brought a tank top that I wore a couple times in camp. But in retrospect, I definitely didn’t need it.

I love the Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail t-shirt since it looks like a regular t-shirt but wicks sweat and resists odours. But any old quick-dry polyester workout t-shirt will do.

For a long-sleeved shirt, I brought an older version of the MEC Sun Dodger Shirt. Even though it has long sleeves, since it’s so lightweight it doesn’t feel hot. If you’re shopping for a long-sleeved shirt, look for one with UPF protection.

Sleeping and Camp Clothes

When you get to camp, you’ll want to take off your sweaty hiking clothes and put on something a little fresher. You’ll also want something warm and dry to sleep in.

I brought some lightweight long underwear to wear at camp and to sleep in. (Although, mostly I wore my long-sleeved shirt and hiking pants around camp, then changed into thermals just to sleep.)

For bottoms, I brought Smartwool merino wool long johns that can pass as tights so I can wear them around camp. I also brought a MEC T3 Hoodie which is so cozy soft and warm, yet really lightweight thanks to the waffle-cut fabric. My husband likes Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight long underwear.

Underwear (3 pairs)

I like to bring two kinds of underwear on long trips: two or three pairs of quick-drying synthetic underwear for hiking and one pair of comfortable cotton underwear for wearing at night.

You don’t need a fresh pair for every day. Let them air out at camp for an afternoon or two or rinse them in a stream, then wear them again. Seamless underwear will be way more comfortable for hiking since they prevent chafing.

I swear by Patagonia’s Active seamless underwear. Many of the guys I hike with swear by boxer briefs like the ones from Saxx with a built-in pouch to prevent their package from rubbing the inner thighs. For more hiking underwear recommendations, see my guide to hiking underwear.

Sports Bra

You don’t need a ton of support for trekking, so try to choose a bra without a lot of fabric layers that will take a long time to dry. I really like the Knixwear bras for trekking since they are super lightweight, don’t absorb too much moisture and are seamless so they don’t chafe

Toque or Buff

Bring a fleece or wool hat that covers your ears. Or bring a buff that you can wear as a hat, an ear warmer or a neck gaiter. It can get chilly at night on the West Coast Trail, especially in the spring and fall.

I brought both a toque and buff and ended up never wearing the toque. I brought a merino wool buff, which was cozy warm but still lightweight.

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

The sun can be harsh on the West Coast Trail especially when it reflects off the water. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses for protection. If you’re hiking south to north, you will have the sun at your back all day so you may want a hat that protects the back of your neck.

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they let you see into the water better, which is great for tidepools. I love my Sunskis since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Gloves (Optional)

Some people swear by having simple fleece gloves on the West Coast Trail, but I never used mine. They would be helpful in spring and fall when it’s chilly at night, or if you get cold hands during long days hiking in the rain, but if you’re hiking in July or August, I don’t think they are necessary.

Some people also like them to protect their hands on the ladders, cable cars and beach boulder section around Owen Point. They bring work gloves or garden gloves. I have soft city-girl hands and didn’t wear work gloves. It was totally fine and I didn’t miss them.

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Footwear

Hiking Boots

The West Coast Trail is muddy and WET. Having waterproof boots is SO important. As well, make sure you bring boots that offer a bit of ankle support, especially if you are carrying a heavier pack than usual or don’t have strong ankles.

The most important thing is to bring boots that you’ve already worn already and that are comfortable. You really want to take care of your feet.

(Funny story – I forgot my boots at home when I hiked the West Coast Trail in 2019. I discovered they were missing when I was in Nanaimo on my way to the trail. Thankfully I was able to visit a local outdoor store and buy the exact same boots I already owned in the exact same size. And I didn’t have a single blister on the trail!)

I wore Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX boots on the West Coast Trail. They aren’t a full leather boot. Instead, they use a durable fabric outer and a waterproof breathable membrane which kept me totally dry. They are lightweight and not too stiff, so they didn’t feel heavy and clunky like leather boots can. They have mid-cut ankle support, which was enough for me.

If you want more support, my husband wore a higher cut version of my boots called the Salomon Quest GTX. He loves them.

Friends pose with their boots at the Pachena Bay trailhead. They opted to wear low and mid cut hiking boots. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Camp/River Crossing Shoes (Optional)

It’s nice not to wear your boots all day. Pack a lightweight pair of shoes or sandals for around camp. Pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack. If you also plan to wear them for river-crossings, pick something with a heel strap so they won’t slip off in the water.

I brought a pair of slip-on foam shoes. They were super light and they stayed on well for river crossings. Native Shoes makes some that are really similar to mine. A few people in my group had Crocs, which they loved.

One guy didn’t bring camp shoes at all. He crossed the rivers barefoot and walked around camp barefoot since most of the campsites were sandy. He said he didn’t regret not having camp shoes at all.

Socks (3 or 4 pairs)

Keeping your feet happy on the West Coast Trail is super important. Pack 3 or 4 pairs of wool and synthetic blend socks that fit well. I also wear liner socks since they can help reduce the rubbing that can cause blisters.

Try your socks and boots at home before your trek to make sure they don’t cause any problems. Air your socks out when you get to camp to keep them fresh.

I’m a recent convert to wearing Darn Tough socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever. I wear the Light Hiker Micro Crew. For liners, I love Injinji toe socks since they help prevent blisters between your toes. I wore my Injini liners every day on the West Coast Trail and had NO BLISTERS!

Gaiters (Optional)

Most people I saw on the West Coast Trail wore gaiters. They are helpful to keep mud, sand, and water out of your boots.

A few people in my group didn’t wear gaiters. Some wore pants to help things out of their boots, and others just stepped carefully. They all said they were fine without gaiters – but they definitely got muddy at times.

Personally, I always recommend that hikers wear gaiters on coastal trails. It’s one of my top tips for beach backpacking.

I brought a pair of basic MEC short gaiters on the West Coast Trail. They were the right height to protect from sand and mud, but they weren’t as hot and uncomfortable as tall, waterproof gaiters. The model I have is discontinued, but if you are buying gaiters specifically for the West Coast Trail, I’d recommend short gaiters designed for trail running since they are very lightweight.

Avoid anything with a zipper as they just get clogged with sand. I’ve been eyeing these Outdoor Research Thru Gaiters.

My friend’s legs after one of the muddy sections. She didn’t mind going without gaiters. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Toiletries, First Aid and Safety

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

Deodorant, Baby Wipes and Face Cloth

Sunscreen and Lip Balm

Bug Spray (Optional)

In general, the bugs aren’t bad on the West Coast Trail. There can be some mosquitos on the forested trails early in the season or in some of the forested campsites. However, it’s usually too breezy on the beach for most insects. I didn’t bring bug spray on the West Coast Trail and I didn’t miss it.

Hair Brush and Hair Ties

If you’ve got long hair, you know why you need these.

Glasses, Contact Solution and Spare Lenses

If you wear contacts, be sure to pack contact solution and extra lenses.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are composting toilets at every campsite, but toilet paper isn’t supplied. Put toilet paper on your West Coast Trail packing list. Put it inside a Ziploc bag to keep it dry. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands after you use the toilet and before you eat.

Menstrual Supplies

If you expect your period on the trail, be sure to pack your favourite menstrual supplies. Learn more about how to camp and hike while on your period.

First Aid Kit

You should pack a small first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, medical tape and a compression bandage for sprains.

You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.) Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers, and anti-diarrhea pills just in case.

And of course, don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids

Your first aid kit should also contain stuff to help repair your gear in case you have any problems. We packed a small multi-tool and some gear repair tape.

Bear Spray

The West Coast Trail is home to black bears, wolves, and cougars, although you’re more likely to see tracks and poop than the animals themselves. Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking.

Buy bear spray and a holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt. I’ve got lots more tips for hiking and camping in bear country in this post.

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Electronics

Camera

Of course, you can bring your phone to use as a camera, but you may want to bring a stand-alone camera. I brought my Sony A6000. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. It’s easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

I use a Peak Design Capture clip to carry it on the shoulder strap of my pack so it’s easy to grab.

I also borrowed a GoPro Hero 7 Black to shoot some fun video footage on the trip. It was so fun to use that I bought my own Go Pro afterwards!

Fording Walbran Creek. You can see my Sony camera attached to my shoulder strap. Photo credit: Reid Holmes.

Headlamp

Bring a headlamp to find your way around after dark. I brought the Petzl Bindi. It’s TINY yet still quite bright. Plus its USB rechargeable, which is so much more convenient than buying AA batteries.

Power Bank/Portable Charger (Optional)

If you’re bringing electronics, you’ll need a way to keep them all charged. Some people like solar chargers, but with the cloudy weather on the West Coast Trail, a power bank is more reliable.

Bring a power bank that has enough storage to charge your devices at least once, but isn’t too big and heavy. The size you choose will depend on how many devices you bring, but at least 2,500mAh capacity or larger is probably a good idea.

Cooking Gear

Stove, Fuel, and Lighter

While you can have a fire on the beach on the West Coast Trail (as long as there isn’t a fire ban), often the wood is wet or there isn’t much of it. Plan to cook on a stove, rather than relying on a fire. Bring a lightweight and compact backpacking stove. And don’t forget a lighter!

Our friends brought their tiny Snow Peak Giga stove, which uses disposable fuel canisters. We have one too, but we opted to bring our Primus Omnifuel stove on the West Coast Trail. Since it was a longer trip, we wanted to bring a white gas stove so we could carry the exact amount of fuel we needed and not have to pack out empty canisters.

If you’re flying to Vancouver Island, remember that you can’t fly with fuel. Pick it up in Victoria or Nanaimo. You can also arrange to have the West Coast Trail bus driver bring you some fuel, but you need to book in advance.

Cooking Pot

Our group cooking dinner at Cribs Creek camp

Bowl & Mug

Knife and Utensils

Bring a sharp knife for cutting, plus a spoon and fork for eating. Or get a spork – they do double duty! I love my Snow Peak Titanium spork.

Dishwashing Supplies

We carry a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth, and some biodegradable soap. Use soap sparingly and be sure to pour your dishwater into the ocean. Don’t put soapy water directly into streams since even biodegradable soap isn’t safe to go directly into the water. (Read more about how to Leave No Trace.)

The GSI compact scraper has a hard edge for scraping stuck on stuff and a spatula-like edge for scraping softer stuff. We use Dr. Bronner’s for really greasy dishes and the rest of the time we skip soap and just use warm water and a scraper.

Food and Water

Water Treatment

You need to treat all the water you drink on the West Coast Trail. The streams might look clean, but there are animals and humans upstream who poop. We brought our Platypus Gravityworks filter. It is really easy to use since there’s no pumping or squeezing. You just hang it up and let it drip through.

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir

Bring a couple of water bottles or a hydration reservoir. There are streams at regular intervals along the trail, except between kilometres 30 and 40. I brought a Platypus Big Zip Evo 3L reservoir. Most days I just put 1 or 1.5L in it in the morning, then filtered more when we stopped for lunch.

The extra water capacity was helpful on the no water stretch between KM 30 and 40, and at Tsusiat Falls where we collected water from above the falls, then carried it down to camp to avoid drinking water people were bathing in.

Food

Food Bag

To protect your food from bears and other critters, you need to store your food either inside metal food lockers, hung on a food pole or hung in a tree. We used a lightweight dry bag to store our food. They are waterproof and the roll-top cuts down on odours, so animals will be less attracted to your food.

We used two SealLine Bulkhead View dry bags. They’re waterproof, they have a purge valve to squeeze out excess air and the window makes it easier to figure out what’s inside.

Optional Extra Gear

Trekking Poles

The West Coast Trail has a LOT of uneven terrain where it can be tricky to keep your balance. They’re also helpful for stream crossings. I bought trekking poles for my first West Coast Trail hike back in 2004 and have been a convert to them ever since. If you already use trekking poles, definitely consider taking them on the West Coast Trail.

However, they do have a few downsides: they get in the way on the ladders so you have to stow them, and they can get snagged in boardwalks. Despite that, I think they are definitely worth taking. I brought my Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles on the West Coast Trail and was really happy to have them.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel

There’s nothing better than a swim after a day of sweaty hiking. There are a few places to go for a quick swim along the West Coast Trail. The ocean and all of the creeks are really COLD, but on a hot day, you might not mind.

Men can likely just wear their trekking shorts as a bathing suit. Women may want to bring a swimsuit just in case, but I usually swim in my sports bra and underwear.

If you plan to swim, bring a quick-drying microfibre towel. I like the PackTowl microfibre towels since they dry fast. You can get away with a small one.

Entertainment for Camp

Ultralight Chair or Seat

After a long day of hiking, you don’t always want to sit on the ground. My friend M, my husband, and I all have the ultralight Helinox Chair One. It collapses down really small and weighs about 1kg. (You can find cheaper knock-off versions on Amazon too!)

My husband and my friend M brought theirs on the West Coast Trail but I opted to leave mine at home to save weight. Instead, I brought a folding foam bum pad. It was nice to have a dry place to sit at all times. And at only 60g, I saved a LOT of weight compared to a chair. Both M and my husband used their chairs every chance they got, including snack breaks. The Thermarest Z Seat foam bum pad is a popular choice but the Forclaz Trek Pad foam seat from Decathlon is really similar and way cheaper.

My friend M’s ultralight Helinox chair set up for a snack break on the beach.

Change of Clothes for After You Finish

Pack a change of clothes to put on after you finish the trail. You can leave them in your car. If you took the West Coast Trail bus they will also bring a bag to you for an extra fee.

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Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for the West Coast Trail

Here’s my list of stuff you don’t need and shouldn’t pack for your West Coast Trail:

Tons of outfit changes: Everyone else will be wearing the same stinky clothes over and over, so you can too. Plus it’s just too heavy to pack an outfit for every day.
Portable speakers: Most people come to the West Coast Trail to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down.
Axe: Campfires are allowed, but axes are against the rules. In any case, you should be able to find lots of small driftwood to make a fire. Remember to follow Leave No Trace best practices and make a small fire.
Your dog: Dogs are not permitted on the West Coast Trail.
A gun: They aren’t allowed on the West Coast Trail.
Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park unless you have a special use permit.

Have you hiked the West Coast Trail? What piece of gear made the biggest difference? Which gear do you recommend other hikers add to their West Coast Trail packing list? Tell us in the comments.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

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What to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Taryn Eyton — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 05:48:42 +0000

When I was planning Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal, I wasn’t sure exactly what to pack. I had done lots of overnight hiking and camping trips at home in Canada but I’d never trekked in the Himalayas and I wasn’t sure what to expect. What would the weather be like? What kind of things did I need to bring for staying in teahouses? What could I buy in Nepal and what did I need to bring from home? Now that I’ve spent 10 days trekking, I know exactly what I’d pack next time (and what I reeeeeally wish I’d brought when I trekked). So here it is: a super extensive list of what to pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Essentials to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trekking Permits

You need a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and a ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) trekking permit to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You will need to show these permits at a few checkpoints along the trail. Pack them inside a Ziploc bag to protect them.

Cash

If you are taking a package tour with a guide, you won’t need to bring much cash since your accommodation and meals are covered. You might want to pack a few hundred rupees per day for snacks or hot showers. If you are trekking independently you will need enough rupees to pay for all your meals and accommodations for your whole trek – plan on about 3000-3500 Nepali rupees per person per day. There are no banks or ATMs anywhere on the trek.

Map and Guide Book

You’ll want to plan out your route each day, especially since there are lots of options for getting to Annapurna Base Camp. Even if you hire a guide (and I think you should), pack a map and a guidebook to help you choose your route (and make sure you don’t get lost). If the guidebook is too heavy, you can buy an electronic copy or just take photos of the relevant pages and look at the on your phone.

I recommend: Buy your maps in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The best guidebook I’ve found is Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya 10th Ed. (Looking for things to do in Pokhara before or after your trek? Here’s a great guide to Pokhara.)

READ NEXT: Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp

Backpacks and Bags to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Greg wearing his Boreas Lost Coast 60 backpack on the way down to Machapuchare Base Camp.

Backpack

You’ll want to pack all your gear for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek inside a backpack. Something between 35 and 55L is probably a good size. Be sure to do a test pack at home to make sure all your gear fits. If you don’t plan to hire a porter, make sure you choose a backpack that fits you well and is comfortable to carry.

I recommend: My husband and I both used Boreas Lost Coast 60 backpacks on the trek. We love this pack, but sadly it’s discontinued. I also like my Gregory Jade 53 and it also comes in a smaller 38L size. The men’s version is the Zulu.

Day Pack (Needed If You Hire a Porter)

If you are going to use a porter on your trek, the porter will carry your big backpack (or provide you with a duffle to pack your stuff inside) and you’ll need to carry a smaller day pack on the trail every day. Choose one that’s about 20L in size: big enough to carry water, a first aid kit, snacks and extra clothes in case it warms up or cools down.

I recommend: I use my Gregory Maya 22 day pack for most of my day hikes and I would have brought it to Annapurna Base Camp if we had hired a porter. It’s a women’s specific pack. The men’s equivalent is the Miwok 24.

Duffle Bag with Lock

You probably brought a bunch of clothes and other stuff to Nepal that you don’t want to bring on your trek. Bring a collapsible duffle bag with a lock so you can leave your extra stuff with your hotel in Pokhara.

I recommend: I used an airline tote that is designed to protect your backpack when you check it on the plane, but then can double as a duffle to store your stuff. Osprey makes good airline totes. Bring some simple travel locks to deter theft.

Stuff Sacks and Organizers

To stay organized I like to pack my gear in a combination of different sized stuff sacks. I also bring lots of Ziploc freezer bags to keep wet gear separated and keep electronics dry and protected.

Our guide Chandra wearing a Nepali rain gear/pack cover combo: plastic sheeting.

Rain Protection

If your gear gets wet, it can really ruin your trip. I trekked to Annapurna Base Camp at the end of monsoon season and it rained a lot. I brought a rain cover for my backpack and also brought a couple big black garbage bags to wrap up gear inside my pack. You can also protect your gear from rain the Nepali way: with plastic sheeting.

I recommend: Some packs come with a custom sized rain cover. If yours didn’t, buy a lightweight silnylon rain cover that fits your pack well.

Clothing to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Hiking pants or tights (1 or 2)

Choose quick-drying hiking pants made of nylon or polyester (and maybe with a bit of spandex for stretch). My husband likes convertible pants that zip off into shorts, but I don’t find them that comfortable. Like a lot of women, I sometimes hike in running tights. If you do choose to wear tights in Nepal, respect the local culture by wearing them with a longer top that covers your crotch and butt. You can get away with one pair of pants, but you’ll be happier with two so you can air one pair out while wearing the other.

I recommend: I love my MEC Terrena Stretch pants. I also like the Prana Halle Pants. For guys, my husband recommends the MEC Mica Pants. If you like convertible pants, the Prana Stretch Zions are a great option.

Shorts (optional)

Most treks in Nepal start at a low elevation in the humid jungle. Unless you are trekking in the winter, you’ll likely have a few very hot days. You may want a pair of quick drying hiking shorts for this type of weather. Bring shorts that hit just above the knee: short shorts are a no-no in Nepal.

I recommend: It’s easy to find longer length hiking shorts for guys, but it can be a challenge for women. The Black Diamond Valley Shorts are my favourite hiking shorts. They’re really lightweight, dry quickly and aren’t too short. The Prana Halle Shorts are another great option for longer length women’s shorts.

T-shirts (2)

I usually hike in quick-drying workout t-shirts and I brought 2 to Nepal. You could also bring a couple button up trekking shirts. I did bring a tank top to Nepal but mostly wore it as a layer under a long-sleeved shirt since tank tops are a bit too revealing in Nepali culture.

I recommend: Any old quick dry workout t-shirt will do. You can pick them up for cheap at big box stores or mall stores.

Long sleeved shirt (1)

A long sleeved shirt is a good layer for sun protection or for a bit more warmth on cold mornings. Ones with buttons or a zip neck are great so that you have venting options.

I recommend: Look for a long sleeved zip-neck or button up with UPF sun protection. I actually like to wear long sleeved zip-neck base layer tops like the MEC T1 Long Sleeved Zip T.

Bundled up in puffy jackets and warm hats while waiting for sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp.

Fleece Jacket or Light Weight Puffy Jacket

At high elevations or on cold mornings you will need a warm layer to hike in. Pack a fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy jacket that you can layer on over a t-shirt and under your rain jacket.

I recommend: I love my down MEC Spicy Hoodie. It’s super lightweight and compressible. My husband loves his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm. It comes in a women’s version too. Buy: REI | Patagonia.

Warm Puffy Jacket (Optional)

If you get cold easily, or if you’re trekking in the colder months you’ll want a big warm, puffy jacket to wear at night in the teahouses or when taking breaks. This jacket should be extra warm, much warmer than the lighter weight puffy you pack. Pick a jacket that is compressible so it won’t take up too much room in your pack. If you’re hiring a trekking guide, they may have big puffy jackets available for rent.

I recommend: I didn’t pack a huge puffy jacket for Annapurna Base Camp since I didn’t trek during cold weather. Ask your trekking agency about renting a jacket or buy one in Kathmandu.

Rain jacket

You definitely should pack a rain jacket for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, even if you don’t visit in the monsoon season. It can rain or snow at anytime in the mountains, and even if it doesn’t a rain jacket is great for blocking the wind. Bring a waterproof breathable rain jacket designed for hiking – preferably one with pit zips for venting.

I recommend: We really love our 3 layer Gore Tex MEC Synergy Jackets. If you want something lighter and more compact, the Outdoor Research Helium II is a great option. Buy: Outdoor Research | REI.

Rain Pants

Pack a pair of waterproof breathable rain pants that you can easily layer over top of your hiking pants. I like ones with side zippers for venting that are easy to put on and take off without removing your shoes.

I recommend: I have the MEC Hydrofoil Rain Pants. They have full length side zips so they aren’t as light as the popular Outdoor Research Helium Pants. Buy: Outdoor Research | REI.

Long Underwear

It gets cold up high in the mountains, especially at night so make sure you pack some warm long underwear, also known as a base layer. You can wear them as pyjamas at night or as a warm layer under your trekking clothes during the day. Choose mid-weight long underwear made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both long underwear bottoms and a long sleeved top.

I recommend: I sleep cold so I wear a MEC T3 base layer top with a hood and matching bottoms. My husband likes Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight long underwear. Buy: REI | Patagonia.

Sports bras (2)

Bring two sports bras so you can wear one and air out the other. You don’t need a ton of support for trekking, so try to choose a bra without a lot of fabric layers that will take a long time to dry.

I recommend: I really like the Knixwear bras for trekking since they are super lightweight, don’t absorb too much moisture and are seamless so they don’t chafe. They offer enough support for my larger chest when I adjust the straps to cross back.

Underwear (3 or 4 pairs)

I like to bring two kinds of underwear on long trips: two or three pairs of quick drying synthetic underwear for trekking and one pair of comfortable cotton underwear for wearing at night. Seamless underwear will be way more comfortable for hiking in, since they prevent chafing. Many of the guys I hike with swear by boxer brief with a built in pouch to prevent their package from rubbing the inner thighs.

I recommend: I wear Patagonia’s Active underwear because they’re seamless and don’t chafe when I’m sweaty. Buy: REI | Patagonia. The guys I hike with can’t stop talking about how much they love Saxx boxer briefs. Buy: REI | Amazon.

Warm Hat

Americans call it a beanie. Canadians call it a toque. No matter what you call it, don’t forget to pack a warm hat on your Annapurna Base Camp trek. Bring one that covers your ears.

I recommend: Buy a hand knitted hat in Nepal. You’ll be supporting the locals and get a great souvenir.

Trekking in the mist.

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

The sun can be harsh at high elevations, especially above the tree line so you may want to bring a wide brimmed hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses to give you a bit of protection.

I recommend: I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they cut let you see colours that are truer to reality than what you get with regular sunglasses. I like Sunskis since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Gloves

Simple fleece or wool gloves will be enough to keep your hands warm at high elevations or on cold mornings. But if you are trekking in the winter or feel the cold easily, insulated ski gloves are a better bet.

I recommend: I like wind resistant gloves since they’re a bit warmer when wet.

Neck Gaiter or Buff (Optional)

When I was trekking my guide Chandra swore that you stayed warmer if you kept your ears covered and he often used a buff as a headband to warm his ears. You can also wear a buff around your neck or even as a hat.

I recommend: I bring a merino wool buff on all my hikes and was happy I packed it for Annapurna Base Camp.

Relaxing in the hot spring at Jhinu Danda.

Bathing Suit (Optional)

There are lots of route options for reaching Annapurna Base Camp, but many of them include a visit to Jhinu Danda hot springs. Women should pack a bathing suit for the springs but men can just wear their trekking shorts (or bring board shorts instead of trekking shorts). Women should pack a bathing suit that’s a bit more modest (a one piece or tankini without a plunging neckline) so you don’t offend the locals.

Casual clothing for wearing at the Teahouses (Optional)

When you’re relaxing at the teahouse each evening you might not feel like wearing your sweaty trekking clothes. Consider packing a lightweight change of clothes to wear at the tea house. (Or just do what I did and wear your long johns as pants).

Footwear to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Hiking Boots

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is mostly on well trodden paths and stone stairs so you don’t need heavy duty mountaineering boots. Regular hiking boots are fine. If you prefer the ankle support of higher cut boots, bring them as they will be handy for all the descending you’ll do on the trip back down. I wore mid-cut boots and was quite comfortable in them. The most important thing is to bring boots that you’ve already worn already and that are comfortable. You really want to take care of your feet.

I recommend: For mid-cut boots I love my Salmon X Ultra Mid GTX Boots. (I wore them in Nepal). Buy: REI | Backcountry.com | Amazon. When I want full ankle support, I wear my Scarpa Kailash boots. Buy: Backcountry.com |
Amazon.

Sandals

Pack a lightweight pair of slip on sandals, Crocs or flip flops for wearing in the shower and to visit the toilet in the middle of the night. You’ll want a break from your boots each day so they are also great to wear inside the teahouses.

Socks (2 or 3 pairs)

Keeping your feet happy on a trek is super important. Pack 2 or 3 pairs of wool and synthetic blend socks that fit well. I also prefer to wear liner socks since they can help reduce the rubbing that can cause blisters. Try your socks and boots at home before your trek to make sure they don’t cause any problems.

I recommend: I’m a recent convert to wearing Darn Tough socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever. I wear the Light Hiker Micro Crew. Buy: REI |Darn Tough Socks.

Packing up for another day on the trail at Annapurna Base Camp.

Sleeping Gear to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack (Optional)

You don’t need to pack a sleeping bag on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, but you may want to bring one anyway. All of the teahouses provide thick synthetic comforters (which they call blankets), but they can run out in high season. The teahouses aren’t heated so even if you do get there early enough to get a blanket, you might still be cold. Pack a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag rated at least 0C/32F but preferably more like -10C/14F. Choose one with a hood for extra warmth. Make sure you pack your sleeping bag inside a compression sack so it takes up less space in your pack. If you are using a guide, the trekking company may have sleeping bags available to rent.

Sleeping Bag Liner and Pillowcase (Optional)

I didn’t pack a sleeping bag liner on my trek, and it’s the number one thing I wish I had brought. The tea house beds come with a foam mattress, fitted sheet, a pillow, a pillowcase and a thick blanket, but they’re aren’t washed very often and sometimes didn’t smell that clean. If you bring your own sleeping bag liner and pillowcase you won’t have to put your skin into direct contact with the teahouse linens.

I recommend: I’ll definitely be picking up a lightweight sleeping bag liner before my next trek.

Ear Plugs

The teahouses have VERY thin walls. If you’re a light sleeper, ear plugs are a must. You never know when you’ll be put in a room next to an epically loud snorer.

I recommend: Bring a few pairs of cheap foam earplugs. You’re bound to lose some so it’s good to have extras. I like the contoured ones since I find they fit in my ears better.

Wearing long sleeves, hats and sunglasses to protect against the harsh high altitude sun.

Toiletries and First Aid to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Soap, Shampoo and Conditioner

All of the teahouses have showers so you will want to bring travel sized bottles of soap, shampoo and conditioner so you can wash up. Cold showers are always available and are usually free. Hot showers are often available for a price.

Travel Towel

The teahouses don’t supply towels so you’ll need to pack your own. Choose a quick-drying super absorbent microfibre towel.

I recommend: I have the PackTowl Personal Towel in both face cloth and body towel sizes.

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

There’s usually a communal sink outside the toilet where you can brush your teeth. But remember to use your own filtered or treated water.

Deodorant and Wet Wipes

You’ll be spending up to 10 days on the trail getting sweaty every day. Bring a small travel sized deodorant and some wet wipes for having a quick sponge bath on days you don’t shower.

Sunscreen, Lip Balm and Moisturizer

The harsh sun at high elevations can give you a sunburn in just a few minutes. (I forgot to put sunscreen on the backs of my hands and ended up with a wicked sunburn after only 45 minutes of exposure.) Pack sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect yourself. The cold air and wind can also dry out your skin so you might also want to pack a small bottle of moisturizer.

I recommend: I like Neutrogena sport sunscreen since it is oil free. I use Blistex lip balms. They have an SPF rating of 15 (so you have to reapply often) but they don’t feel too waxy like some others I’ve tried.

Hair Brush and Hair Ties

If you’ve got long hair, you know why you need these.

Contact Solution and Spare Lenses

If you wear contacts, be sure to pack contact solution and extra lens. On cold nights, sleep with your contact case inside your sleeping bag to keep them from freezing.

Tampons or Pads

If you menstruate, pack some tampons or pads just in case. They aren’t available for sale anywhere along the trek (as one blogger unfortunately found out!)

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There will be no toilet paper along the route since Nepalis don’t use it: They use their left hand and some water.You’ll need to pack some inside a Ziploc bag to keep it dry. You can buy toilet paper at teahouses and shops along the trek, or stock up ahead of time in Pokhara. Sometimes the communal wash sinks come with soap, but they often don’t so it’s a good idea to pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands after you use the toilet and before you eat.

First Aid Kit

You should pack a small first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, medical tape and a compression bandage for strains or sprains. You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. It’s also a good idea to pack some nail clippers. Your first aid kit should also contain stuff to help repair your gear in case you have any problems. We packed a small multi-tool and some duct tape.

I recommend: I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

A multi-tool with a knife, pliers and scissors is always handy. I like the Leatherman Wave.

Medication

Don’t forget to pack any prescription medication. Medication of any kind is not generally available on the trek and may be hard to find in Pokhara. Make sure you pack a good supply of anti-inflammatory painkillers like Advil. Getting sick on the trail is surprisingly common so pack cough and cold medication just in case. If you end up with an upset stomach on the trail (like I did), you’ll be happy to have anti-nausea meds like Gravol and anti-diarrhea pills like Immodium.

Visit a travel clinic before you leave home and talk to your doctor about whether you want to get a prescription for Diamox to help with altitude sickness symptoms. (Annapurna Base Camp isn’t that high compared to many other treks in Nepal, but it’s still at 4100m, MUCH higher than you are used to.) A travel clinic can also write you a prescription for antibiotics to help with traveller’s diarrhea. I was really glad to have those pills on my trek!

Trekking through the jungle at lower elevations.

Electronics to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Mobile Phone and Charger

Most of us take our phones everywhere and Annapurna Base Camp is no exception. Most of the teahouses have wifi if you want to stay connected.

Nepali SIM Card (Optional)

There is excellent phone reception on almost the whole trek. If you trek during high season you may want to get a Nepali SIM card so you can call ahead to guest houses each day and reserve a bed.

Camera, Memory Cards and Charger or Batteries

The Himalayas are spectacular and you’ll want to make sure you have a good way to take photos. Many mobile phones take great photos, but you may want to bring a stand alone camera or even a GoPro.

I recommend: I brought my Sony A6000. It’s a mirrorless which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

Headlamp and Extra Batteries

Electricity is unreliable in Nepal, especially in the mountains. There’s often no lights at night so you’ll want to bring a headlamp to navigate around the teahouse in the dark.

I recommend: I use a Petzl Actik. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power. Buy: REI | Backcountry.com.

Power Bank

Sometimes you will get electrical outlets in your room, but more often there will be communal outlets in the teahouse dining room, and often you’ll have to pay to use them. If you have a few different devices to charge, it can be easier to bring a power bank so you can charge that in the dining room, then use the power bank to charge your other devices later.

I recommend: Bring a power bank that has enough storage to charge your devices at least once, but isn’t too big and heavy. The size you choose will depend on how many devices you bring, but at least 5,000mAh capacity or larger is probably a good idea.

Plug Adapter

The plugs in Nepal may not work with your plugs from home so it’s a good idea to pack an adapter. Nepal primarily uses Type C plugs (Euro plugs) but you may also find Type D and Type M.

I recommend: I have the inexpensive Cactus Creek plug adapter kit. There’s lots of other cheap yet functional adapter kits out there as well. Buy: REI.

Using trekking poles to help with the descent on the longest stone staircase on the whole trek in Chomrong.

Food and Water to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Water Treatment

Drinking untreated water in Nepal is a sure-fire way to get sick. But it’s important to stay hydrated at high elevations to prevent altitude sickness. (It’s no joke! Read more about how to adjust to high altitudes.) You can buy treated water at a few designated safe drinking water stations. You can also pay a small fee for hot boiled water from teahouses (although there’s no guarantee that it has actually been at a rolling boil for long enough to kill bacteria and parasites – it might just be hot). Lots of people use one of these two methods on the trail and don’t get sick.

I have a sensitive stomach and really wanted to make sure I didn’t get sick so I brought a Steripen which uses UV rays to treat the water. You could also bring a water filter, water treatment drops or tablets. Bringing your own method of water treatment or filtration gives you more flexibility so don’t have to wait until you get to a teahouse to fill up your water.

I recommend: We packed the Steripen Classic on our Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was quick and easy to use for our group of 4.

Water Bottles

Bring a couple of reusable water bottles or a hydration reservoir to avoid buying bottled water and contributing to the garbage problem that plagues Nepal. Choose ones with a wide opening so they are easier to fill and sanitize.

I recommend: For trekking in Nepal I brought classic 1L Nalgene bottles. The wide openings are easy to fill and they are fine to use with boiling water. Plus you can get them in tons of fun colours.

Drinks

Tea, Coke and beer are readily available at all teahouses (although the latter two can get quite expensive). But if you like to hike with electrolyte replenishment drinks or you like coffee in the morning, you’ll have to bring your own as they aren’t available on the trek.

I recommend: We brought a few tubes of Nuun electrolyte tablets from home. The tablets are easy to pack and way less messy than powders. I’m a coffee drinker at home, but in Nepal I just ordered a pot of Nepali chai tea every morning. It had plenty of caffeine to replace my coffee.

Food

You will be eating three hot meals a day at teahouses, so I found that I didn’t want as many snacks as usual while on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. But you can buy plenty of junk food from the tea houses including chocolate bars and cookies. If you prefer more traditional hiking snacks like energy bars or trail mix, you’ll need to buy them outside Nepal.

I recommend: I brought a few of my favourite energy bars which were helpful for fighting off attacks of the hangries on the longer days. I like the Luna Bar S’mores Bar and the Pro Bar Chocolate Coconut Bar.

Optional Extra Gear to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Using my gorillapod tripod to balance my camera on a rock at Annapurna Base Camp.

Trekking Poles

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek has a lot of steep ascents and descents. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills. (Is hiking with poles really easier? My friend Becky says yes and I have to agree!)

I recommend: I brought my Black Diamond Trail trekking poles to Nepal and was really happy to have them.

Umbrella

If you expect rain on your trek, an umbrella can be really helpful. At lower elevations it’s too hot to wear full on rain wear so the umbrella keeps your head and shoulders dry so you don’t have to wear a rain jacket. We trekked in early September at the end of the monsoon season and were happy to have umbrellas.

I recommend: Buy a cheap umbrella in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Tripod or Selfie Stick

I brought a mini tripod for my camera and maybe people bring selfie sticks or GoPro extension poles. They’re helpful for getting group shots or providing a different perspective.

I recommend: I brought the Joby Gorillapod mini tripod. It’s lightweight and compact, plus its easy to attach to just about anything. You can also get an adapter that lets you use it with your phone. Buy: REI | Amazon.

Paracord

A short length of paracord can come in handy. You can use it to create a clothesline to dry out sweaty gear or a wet towel in your room. Or you can use it to hang damp socks off the back of your pack during the day to dry them in the sun.

I recommend: You don’t need much: 3 or 4 meters of cord should be enough.

Entertainment for the Teahouses

You’ll have a few hours each night in the teahouses when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book, some headphones to listen to music or podcasts and a deck of cards.

I recommend: I always travel with my Amazon Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from.

Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here’s my list of stuff you don’t need and shouldn’t pack for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Tent (stay in the teahouses – it’s almost the same price as camping)
Sleeping pad (the teahouse bunks come with foam mattresses)
Stove, cooking gear and food (buy your meals at the teahouses)
Climbing gear (This is a non-technical trek and you won’t need harnesses, ropes, crampons, etc.)
Extra clothing and gear you won’t need on your trek (Leave them in a duffle bag or suitcase with your hotel in Pokhara.)
A laptop (There’s wifi in the teahouses but it’s slow and the electricity is spotty so it will be hard to keep it charged.)
Revealing clothing including short shorts, skimpy tank tops, etc. (Nepalis are modestly dressed people and will appreciate it if you do the same).
Tons of outfit changes. (You can do laundry in the sink or just air out your clothes and wear them again. Everyone else will be doing the same thing. And if you pack too much, you pack will be too heavy to comfortably carry.)

A Note on Buying Gear in Nepal

If you need to, you can buy everything you need in Nepal at trekkers shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, lots of the gear for sale is counterfeit knock-offs. Some of the knock-offs work fine, but others will fall apart pretty quickly. Unfortunately, to the untrained eye it can be hard to tell the difference and you don’t want to end up 6 days walk from a road with broken gear. As well, some pieces of gear are so key that you want to make sure you have quality gear that works for you. Below I’ve listed some gear that you can probably buy in Nepal without a problem, as well as some you really want to make sure you bring from home (and test out first).

Gear You Can Buy in Nepal

Maps
Duffle bags
Fleece jackets
Puffy jackets (although beware that they may not be as warm as advertised)
Warm hats and gloves (you can also buy handed knitted ones on the trek – they make great souviners)
Shower sandals
Toilet paper
Trekking poles
Umbrella

Gear You Definitely Want to Bring from Home

Backpack that fits you well
Rain jacket and pants (knock-off ones for sale in Nepal might not be very waterproof)
Hiking boots that fit you well

Have you been trekking in Nepal? Is there anything you’d add or remove from this list? Let me know in the comments.

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The post What to Pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Packing List Archives - Dawn Outdoors

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