Everything you need to pack for an Overnight Backcountry Trip

There's nothing quite like spending a night in the backcountry. Whether you're camping beside an alpine lake, watching the sunset from a mountain pass, or waking up to incredible views, an overnight hiking trip is one of the best ways to experience the outdoors.

The key to enjoying your trip, though, is being prepared. Packing the right gear will keep you comfortable, safe, and well-fed while avoiding unnecessary weight in your backpack. Here's everything you should consider bringing on your next overnight adventure.

Essential Gear

Of course, the gear you need varies depending on where you are going and the conditions when you are travelling. That being said, these are the core items you'll need for a safe and comfortable night outdoors.

Backpack

Choose a backpack that comfortably fits all of your gear. For most overnight trips, a 40–65 L pack is ideal, depending on the amount of equipment you're carrying, whether you're sharing gear with others, and how long you are going into the backcountry for. 

Tent

Bring a lightweight backpacking tent that's appropriate for the weather conditions. If you're hiking with a partner, sharing a tent is a great way to reduce pack weight. For example, one person can carry the tent poles, while the other carries the bulk of the tent.

Sleeping Bag

A quality sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you'll encounter can make all the difference in getting a good night's sleep. Even during summer, alpine temperatures can drop significantly overnight.

Sleeping Pad

A sleeping pad provides insulation from the cold ground while adding much-needed comfort. Many sleeping pad options pack down into very small, easy-to-pack sizes. 

Hiking Footwear

Wear hiking boots or trail runners that you've already broken in. Proper footwear helps prevent blisters and provides support on uneven terrain.

Camp Shoes

After a long day of hiking, it's hard to beat slipping into a pair of lightweight sandals or slides around camp. They are also very convenient when there is a lake or river where you are going. Your feet will thank you.

Food & Water

Good food keeps your energy levels up and makes camp even more enjoyable after a long hike.

Stove & Fuel

A compact backpacking stove, such as a Jetboil or similar system, makes boiling water quick and easy for meals and hot drinks. Don't forget to pack enough fuel for your trip.

Water Bottles or Reservoir

Carry enough water to reach your first refill point. The amount you'll need depends on the trail and weather conditions. Make sure to be well informed about water sources before you go. 

Water Treatment

Never rely on untreated backcountry water. Bring a water filter, purification tablets, or both as a backup.

Fire Starter

Pack waterproof matches or a lighter. Even if you don't plan on having a fire, they're useful for lighting your stove and can be invaluable in an emergency.

Snacks

Bring plenty of high-energy snacks such as trail mix, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit, or nuts. They're easy to eat during breaks and help keep your energy up throughout the day. Mountain Meal Prep offers multiple snacks and desserts to choose from, including instant hummus, tropi-colada chia pudding, apple blackberry crisp, and mango sticky rice. 

Breakfast

A quick breakfast gets you moving without much cleanup. Instant oatmeal is a classic option, or you can enjoy one of our Mountain Meal breakfasts like the Breakfast Scramble, Apple Cinnamon French Toast, or Ruby Bowl.

Lunch & Dinner

After a full day on the trail, a hot meal is hard to beat. Lightweight dehydrated meals are ideal for backpacking since they're easy to prepare and don't take up much space. Mountain Meal Prep dinners simply require boiling water, making them a convenient and satisfying option after a long hike.

Hot Drinks

Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate can make chilly mornings and evenings around camp even more enjoyable.

Bowl, Mug & Utensil

Don't forget a lightweight bowl or mug and a reusable spoon or spork for preparing and eating your meals.

Garbage Bag

Everything you pack into the backcountry should come back out with you. Pack a small garbage bag to carry out all food wrappers and waste.

Clothing

Backcountry weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers is the best approach.

Bring:

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts
• A warm fleece or mid-layer
• An insulating jacket (such as a puffer)
• A waterproof rain jacket
• Hiking pants
• Shorts for warm weather
• Insulated pants or thermal layers if colder temperatures are expected
• Rain pants
• Hiking socks
• Dry camp socks for the evening
• A cap or sun hat
• A toque or beanie for cool mornings and evenings

Having dry clothes to change into at camp can make a huge difference in comfort after a wet or sweaty day on the trail.

Other Essentials

These smaller items are easy to overlook but can make your trip much more comfortable.

• Dry bag to keep clothing, electronics, and other gear dry
• Toilet paper
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Biodegradable soap
• Small quick-dry towel
• Utility knife or multi-tool
• Portable charging block and charging cable
• Headlamp
• Sunscreen
• Bear spray

Bear Safety

Any food or scented item, including toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, and garbage, should never be left unattended.

If your campsite has a bear cache or bear box, use it. Otherwise, store all scented items in a bear canister or hang them in a dry bag well away from your campsite. 

Emergency & Safety Equipment

Hopefully you'll never need these items, but they're some of the most important things to carry.

First Aid Kit

Pack a small first aid kit with items such as:

• Bandages
• Blister treatment
• Gauze
• Medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes
• Pain medication
• Personal medications

Navigation

Don't rely solely on your phone. Having a map and/or compass and knowing how to use them can be helpful in tricky situations. GPS apps can also be excellent tools. Some of these items may be more necessary if you are going into more remote areas without reception and on less busy trails. Do your research beforehand and be prepared. 

Communication

Cell service is often unavailable in the backcountry. If you're travelling into remote areas, consider carrying a satellite phone. Also, make sure someone knows where you are going, your planned route, and when you should return from the backcountry before you leave.

Be Prepared and Enjoy the Journey

Packing thoughtfully isn't just about comfort, it's about safety. Being prepared allows you to handle changing weather, unexpected delays, and emergencies while making your trip far more enjoyable. Some items may seem unnecessary, but accidents and unexpected situations can happen. 

Before heading out, check the weather forecast, research your route, and make sure you have everything packed. A little preparation goes a long way toward creating an unforgettable backcountry experience. 

With the right gear, plenty of food like our mountain meals, and a solid plan, you'll be ready to hit the trail and enjoy everything the backcountry has to offer.