Backpacking Checklist: The Outer Layer

Backpacking checklist is the most important aspect before you even plan on buying thing for your backpacking adventure.

Once you've decided to go on an outdoor adventure like a Grand Canyon backpacking trip, you'll need to collect the proper supplies. The first set of items you need are the absolute bare minimums. These are the things that you just can't backpack without.

The first item is your clothes. Depending on the climate and time of year, this will vary, but the most important thing to remember is: layers! Layers will save you whether you are backpacking in the Yukon or in New Mexico.

You should start with a light, breathable shirt, typically a polyester kind made popular by companies like North Face and Under Armor. These will absorb sweat without becoming weighed down by it, like cotton shirts tend to do.

You should wear pants, not shorts, because you don't want to get scratched or cut by something on the trail. Any rugged pair of khaki cargo pants will do. As for shoes, you'll need a good hiking shoe, although some prefer boots. The socks should be an athletic/hiking specific type, as regular cotton socks will get wet with sweat and tend to wear thin.

For an overshirt or jacket, choose something with pockets and that is light enough to wear without feeling bogged down. For most climates a fleece will be perfect. Don't forget a hat! Some people swear by boonie hats, but I myself prefer just a ballcap.

The next essential piece of gear is your pack. You don't want to grab a cheap nylon backpack that you would take to school, however. You need to get a strong pack from an outdoors outfitter. It should have thick shoulder straps and a belly strap, and should have multiple compartments.

You don't want to mix your dirty clothes with your food. Some come complete with hydration systems, I highly recommend these since water is very hard to pack properly.

From here we need to start filling our pockets and pack with supplies and gear. I'll discuss this in the next article.

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