The Active Traveler’s Packing List and Buying Guide

Active Travelers need to bring what they need without the weight of excess things that they ‘want’.  Use this handy active traveler packing list to pare your backpack or suitcase down to the essentials so you can travel light.  The links may be affiliate links, which mean, at no additional cost to you, you’ll be helping to support the program – thanks!  Kit

Your Backpack -or-

Your most crucial purchase!  For backpacks, make sure that it is sized properly so that it can cinch on your hips to help carry the load.  I like when it has a ventilated back so it ‘breathes’.  I also like easy access pouches and storage areas.  Don’t scrimp on quality – it will take a lot of abuse and you want it to hold up for many years.  Seek a balance between sturdy contruction and light weight.  I like a bag I can use to backpack AND travel.      SHOP NOW

-or- Convertible Suitcase

Active travelers need a suitcase that adapts to their needs:  Walking on cobblestone?  Convert to a backpack.  A long wait at Airport Security or to get to your gate?  Use the rollers.  Ideally you want to fit all of your gear in a carry on size, even if you have to check your bags (say for your folding knife and hiking poles).   Goals:  Sturdy, yet lightweight.  Small enough to fit in overhead bin, room for your laptop if needed, easy to find compartments and a good warranty in case you have an issue.       SHOP NOW

Day Pack

Look for one that can hold a rain jacket, puffy jacket, snacks, a water bladder plus a couple of water bottles, your emergency kit and whatever else you might need during the day.

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Clothes

Stick to intermatching clothes in the same color scheme.  This will give you the most versatility and allow you to dress up and dress down your outfits as required.  Always choose non-fussy, easy to clean, lightweight, quick dry and wrinkle proof fabrics that you can wash in the sink.  This will limit laundromat visits.  Bring 20′ of paracord to create your own room clothesline.

Don’t pack anything expensive, but do pack ‘dress up’ and ‘dress down’ jewelry (one each, please – don’t go crazy because jewelry doesn’t take up much space).  NOTE:  Cycling clothes are down below the hiking gear.

Travel Outfit

Bonus points if you can pull together an outfit that doubles as your ‘City’, or culture outfit (see below).  Your goal here is to find something comfortable (think ‘stretchy’), that doesn’t wrinkle, hides spills and/or is easy to clean.  You want something attractive yet super comfortable that you can wear all day, jostling through an airport, sitting for ten hours on a plane, and taking transport to your lodging that still looks reasonably fresh when you arrive.

Culture aka Your ‘City’ Outfit

It’s great if your Travel Outfit doubles as your City Outfit, but if you go out to really nice restaurants or cultural events, you may need to up your game a bit when it comes to your outfit.  First try to spruce up your travel outfit with better accessories and shoes.  If that simply won’t work, maybe you can switch out one of the pieces, like maybe a flashier top?  If not, again look for an outfit that doesn’t wrinkle and is easy care, that also takes up little space in your bag.

Lounge and Exercise Outfit

My PJ’s and general lounging around outfit also doubles as my exercise outfit.  Just remember to get something that dries super quickly.  I also wear this if I have to go to the laundrymat for a more thorough washing of my clothes (for modesty in some countries, even though I look ridiculous, I might also put on my rain jacket).  This outfit should take up little room in your bag.  I just pack a tank top and runner’s shorts.

Your Adventure Clothes

If you will be hiking, bring two hiking shirts and one pair of zip off hiking pants, two pair of hiking socks and liners (see other pack items further down below).  If you will be biking, bring one biking top and pants or shorts that you wash in the sink each night.  If you will be paddling, can your long sleeved button up hiking shirt and zip off pants work?

Footwear – What Shoes to Pack

To me, what footwear to bring is the hardest decision I make.  If I am going to do heavy duty hiking, I will need my rugged hiking boots, which are too clunky to pack, so I have to wear them on the plane and when in transit – ugly!  but I haven’t figured out a better, compact packing solution to this dilemma.  When possible, I pack instead my hiking shoes, which double as my walking shoes and occasional biking shoes.  Again, not a perfect solution, but who wants to bring a suitcase full of shoes???   Then I pack one other shoe that has to work as my comfortable culture shoe.  It’s often an attractive walking sandal for warmer climates and a flat or ballerina shoe in cooler climates.  If I will be using communal showers at any point of my adventure, then I also need a lightweight flip flop as shower shoes.

Additional Adventure Travel Gear

I keep a print out list of all the potential gear I use on my adventures and review this list against my actual adventure to decide what exactly I will need for the trip.  This ensures that I won’t forget something essential.  I hate wasting money and precious vacation time replacing something I already own!  But when in doubt, leave it out, and see if you can’t use something else on your definite list as a substitute.  Get free access to a Printer-friendly Adventure Traveler’s Packing Check List HERE.

Fold up Lightweight Day Pack

Use as your Carry On Bag if you are packing excess fluids, hiking stick and/or a pocket knife, all of which need to be in a Checked Bag:  your main backpack or convertable suitcase/backpack above.  Once you are at your destination, it turns into your Day Pack for day hikes and for touring the sites.  I try really hard to make sure everything I bring fits in my main pack, so even though I use this for my carry on, once I arrive, I shove it in my pack to make getting around the airport and to my lodging less cumbersome.  This also helps prevent overpacking and will allow room for souveniers if I buy any on my return home.  SHOP HERE

Hot Locale?  Consider a Backpack Umbrella!

Umbrellas aren’t just for rain.  They make an excellent sun shelter!  While you can carry a regular umbrella, getting one that attaches to your daypack makes life so much easier.

Waterproof Headlamp

Even if you are just day hiking, you’ll want to carry a waterproof headlamp, just in case you unexpectedly run late or have to spend the night in the woods.  For backpacking, of course, a headlamp is a must!  Even though batteries are heavy, bring a back up set.  Make a note at home of when you replaced the batteries so you’ll have an idea of when to switch them out again.  Don’t mix up your used and backup batteries.  SHOP NOW

Folding Knife

I prefer to carry a small, lightweight knife rather than a heavy multi-tool.  When you are backpacking, it’s all about the weight.  Choose a one hand open, lightweight (this one is only 1.28 ounces!) stainless steel folding knife with a clip and frame lock for safety.  I like to paint some neon nail polish on the knife to make it show up when I drop it.  I also tie a short neon pink plastic string to it for the same reason.  Don’t forget to take it out of your pack when you fly!  I’ve had a couple confiscated.    SHOP NOW

Emergency Survival Blanket

At only 3 ounces, as packed, this 4.5 x 4.2 x 1.8 inch four-layered thermal NASA materials inspired blanket can help retain 80% of your body heat!  I never enter the wild without one!  It is waterproof, reusable, cleanable, and opens big enough to wrap your body (56″ x 84″).  You can even use the reflective surface to signal help!  Keep one in every pack, your car and bike.  They have saved my butt on several occasions!     SHOP NOW

Emergency Whistle

Always strap a lightweight emergency whistle to your backpack where you can reach it should you fall down.  Look for a weatherproof, low ounce and LOUD whistle.  This one sports 130 decibels!  It’s made of double tubed non-brittle plastic and weighs practically nothing.  The lanyard lets you strap it to your pack and it has a clip.  When you need help, you want a whistle folks can hear.   SHOP NOW

Dry Sacks

You want to keep your clothes, food and other gear nice and dry, so pack a few of these Dry Bags.  They are veery lightweight, so I tend to err on using a larger bag and then rolling it down when I squeeze out all the air.  My memory isn’t the best, especially when I’m tired, so I use a permanent marker to label them: Food, Clothing, Emergency, Toiletries.  Note I use a compression stuff sack for my sleeping bag (scroll down below).     SHOP NOW

Compactor Bag

What do I need a compactor bag for, you ask???   Use these heavy duty bags to line the INSIDE of your backpack!  They will help keep your gear clean and will last a long time.  Also find a heavy duty twist tie.  Once your pack is filled, twist closed the open top, fold it over and then hold it put with the twist tie.  This will keep any rain from getting inside your bag.  Note that regular trash bags tear and are not recommended.  Cough up the cash for these super strong bags – you’ll be glad!      SHOP NOW

Pen-sized Bug Spray

This lightweight, long-lasting 1/2 ounce pump almost 100% DEET bug spray will keep the nasties away!  A squirt repels mosquitos, ticks, gnats, flies, chiggers and fleas for up to 10 hours.  Save with a multi-pack.   I like to spray my clothes and let it dry before I put them on.  Keeps both the DEET and the bugs off ME!  Don’t forget this is a liquid and needs to go in your quart-sized carry on bag or in your checked luggage with your knife.     SHOP NOW

Carabiner 

Lightweight aluminum alloy keeps the weight down and the rust away!  These carabiners even turn to lock and rated to 150 lbs, it can more than hold your food sack up and away from bears when backpacking.  I also use carabiners to attach my camp shoes to the back of my pack, as well as any clothes that need drying while I hike.  Pack one or two.     SHOP NOW

Parachute Cord

I carry about 50′ of neon commercial paracord if I’m backpacking, or about 20′ if regular traveling:  it’s lightweight at a fraction of an ounce, is super strong and since it’s nylon, is super durable and basically sheds water.  I like to use neon cord so it shows up better – less tripping over it!  Use with the carabiner above to hang your food away from the bears.  TIP:  When you cut the cord, melt the edge with a lighter so the cord doesn’t fray.       SHOP NOW

Bear Resistant Food Canister

In bear country like the Smokies, you may be required to pack along a bear-proof canister.  You want something strong, but lightweight.  This 440 cubic inch canister is large enough for four days worth of food for a solo backpacker, or for a couple on a weekend getaway.  Clear sides make it easy to find what you’re looking for.  No tools to open means nothing to lose.  It’s even durable enough to double as a stool!  Approved by all National Parks and National Forests that require Bear Canisters.     SHOP NOW

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And here is my actual very detailed pack list for the Costa Rica Camino (helpful for any long distance hike).

Backpacker’s Kitchen:

Backpacker’s Stove

I use this compact, lightweight folding stove that uses tiny cubes as fuel.  There’s nothing that can really break, it’s super reliable, and I can count how many cubes I need for a given trip – no need to guess how much gas I have left.  I make a wind screen with heavy duty aluminum foil that I use a hole punch to let a little air in.  This screen folds up and stores in the stove.   It weighs 3.8 ounces and measures 4.5†L x 4.5†W x 2.75†D (open), 4.5†L x 3.75†W x 1†D (closed).  While I love my folding stove, I do know a lot of backpackers who are happy with their Jetboil stoves.       SHOP NOW

Fuel Cubes for Folding Stove

Pack along a mini cigarette lighter, and with a click and it’s lit!  Each cube lasts about 15 minutes, which is plenty long to cook my dinner.  If I just want to boil water for a cup of tea, I split the cube in half.  It burns down to zero waste.  I store them in a zip bag because I keep my handmade aluminum foil windscreen inside the stove.  No need to worry about spilt gas or even running out of gas because you can count your meals, and add a couple extra cubes.  I love them!     SHOP NOW

1 Person – Backpacking Titanium Cook Pot

I like a nice, lightweight yet durable cooking pot (that I also use as my ‘sink’), and always choose titamium when available, aluminum when not.  This pot holds 550 ml (about 2.3 cups), so it’s perfect for a single serving.

If you always backpack as a couple or group, you may want to buy larger equipment and let everyone carry some of it – see next item.      SHOP NOW

  Backpacking Cook System for Two

I love this Ultralight nesting kitchen!  Dual purpose gear is always sweet when you backpack!  You may not pack everything (I’d skip either the mugs or the bowls and use one for both purposes), but the set includes two 20 oz mugs with sip lids and sleeves, two 20 oz bowls, two folding sporks, a strainer lid, a sink sack, and has a large 1.8L capacity.  Non-stick Teflon coating makes cleanup a snap.  Cook system weighs 1.3 pounds.    SHOP NOW

Regardless of your cook system, bring a tiny (and I mean tiny:  as in 2″ x 2″!) square of cotton to be your ‘dish rag’ and I also bring a scrap of bug netting to be my scrubber.  I use leftover boiling water to sterilize them after use.

Nalgene non-BPA Wide Mouth Water Bottles

I like to bring a couple of BPA free water bottles PLUS my bladder when I backpack.  If water is scarce, I keep my bladder full, and at least one of the bottles full.  That way, if the bladder runs dry, I know exactly how much water I have until I can treat some more.  When water is super scarce, I keep both bottles full.  These USA made 32 oz bottles have been a bestseller for years.  They are dishwasher safe and weigh just 6.4 oz.       SHOP NOW

Quick Dry Water Reservoir Bladder

I’m switching to this Gregory from my CamelBak because of its superior drying system:  it uses 3D technology so that the top doesn’t touch the bottom allowing air in so it dries quickly when hung – a super improved feature over my Camelbak!  If you backpack where water is scarce, opt for the 3 liter, otherwise you can probably get away with the 2 liter (but still carry two bottles).  Also be sure to bring a portable water treatment system (see below).  Once I’ve cleaned it after a backpacking trip, I like to store mine in a large zip bag in the freezer until its next use.      SHOP NOW

Portable Water Treatment – Squeeze System

When possible, I try to select gear that is hard to break.  That’s why I use the Sawyer Squeeze (and re-buy it whenever the ceramic filter does break).  The ceramic membrane filters bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100% of microplastics and is easy to use.  You fill one of the included pouches with the untreated water and then squeeze it into your water bottles or bladder.  You backflush the filter to clean it.  Always test it before you head out.  It’s always worked fine for my trips, but I have had some issues if it sits in storage for a long time between uses.  Another option is the gravity or pump systems.  I did a show about choosing portable water treatment systems on the Adventure Travel Show podcast.      SHOP NOW

Portable Water Treatment System – Gravity Fed

A popular portable water treatment option to remove protozoa, guardia and other bacteria is to use this gravity fed system.  Fill the ‘Dirty’ 2L bag from your untreated water source and hang it.  The systems treats 1.75 L per minute as the water flows through the filter into the ‘Clean’ 2L bag.  To backflush the system, hang the clean bag higher.  The reservoirs use a SlimeGuardâ„¢ antimicrobial treatment, which pleases germ-phobes like me.  The complete setup weighs just 11.5 oz.      SHOP NOW 

Backup Portable Water Treatment System – Lifestraw

I’ve had Guardia, and it remains one of my life’s most unpleasant experience (I lost six pounds of water weight in two days – yikes!)

So I take water treatment seriously and always pack a back up system in case my main one breaks.  You could boil the water 15 minutes which uses a ton of fuel.  You could add iodine or chlorine, which tastes terrible (and I’m not convinced is safe).  Or you could pack a 1.6 oz LifeStraw, like I now do.     SHOP NOW

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Backpacker’s Bedroom:

Sleeping Bag

There are several important considerations you must make before buying your sleep system.  Check out my Adventure Travel Show podcast episode for more details.  You need to know your height, how cold you will be sleeping in, whether you get claustrophobic (if so, avoid the ‘mummy’ style) and need to compare fill and weight.  I prefer ‘Responsible Down’ for its light weight. But be forewarned that it takes forever to dry if you get it wet.  It’s also more expensive, but I would rather pay more for better quality gear, as I give up enough comfort as it is backpacking at my age:)   Make sure you also get a Compression Stuff Sack (below).      SHOP NOW

Sleeping Bag Compression Dry Bag

You definitely don’t want a wet sleeping bag or quilt!  Protect your bed with a high quality compression dry bag.  This bags reduces the volume of your sleep system down by two thirds!  A special vent lets the air out when you squeeze the bag down, but the fabric is waterproof so your bag is protected!  You don’t want to store your bag (or puffy jacket) in these bags, but they are ideal for backpacking.    SHOP NOW

Sleeping Bag Liner

Sleeping bags are expensive, and a pain to clean, so invest in a sleeping bag liner to protect your investment and to sleep more comfortably.  I prefer my silk liner, because it breathes and I tend to run hot at night.  Silk also is warm when you need it to be – another reason I use it.  If you camp in cold weather, you may prefer a merino wool one.  Regardless, it’s smart to pack along a liner.     SHOP NOW

Sleeping Pad – Air Mattress

Like all backpacking gear choices, you will be debating cost, quality and weight.  I like my Thermarest, although the reflective covering makes a crinkly noise whenever I toss and turn – mildly annoying.  However, it rolls up to nothing and only weighs 14 oz.  I’ve tried using a half body foam, but prefer hauling a bit more weight for the added comfort.  You can get a mummy pad frame to cut down some weight.  A pad is necessary to help insulate your body (check thermal ratings for your backpacking needs) as well as for comfort.  I store mine partially filled and hung over a large comforter hanger when home… do not store completely deflated.      SHOP NOW

My luxury – A Mini Down Pillow

I don’t mind getting filthy, or hiking long and hard.  I count the grams in my backpack and work (and spend!) to reduce my base pack weight.  But at my age, I decided it is worth carrying an extra 2.5 oz to have a ‘real’ pillow!  I used to shove my clothes in my sleeping bag compression sack to make a ‘pillow’ – not very comfortable!  Sea to Summit offers three sizes.  You can also get blow up pillows.  My girlfriend Sherry’s luxury item is a fold up camp stool.  But for me, I’ll lean against a tree for a chair, but will sleep in luxury on my down pillow!      SHOP NOW

Tent or Tarp

Your backpacking ‘home’ selection is another crucial big ticket item.  Prices for quality tents can take your breath away!  Ultralight superior tents are worth it, though.  My friend Gerry bought a cheaper tent that literally collected her breath at night, which became condensation on the interior roof of her tent each morning.  So every day, she slept in a wet tent – yuck!  Obviously, Gerry replaced it when she got home.  I love my Big Agnes tent!  Easy set up and super light weight.  I did buy titanium stakes to replace the included aluminum ones to cut down the weight a bit more, though (see below)  I also like my tarp.  You can listen here to my Adventure Travel Show episode on deciding between tents and tarps.      SHOP NOW

Titanium Tent and Tarp Stakes

My tent came with aluminum stakes, but I coughed up to buy two sets (of 6) titanium stakes.  These stakes have a neon shepard’s hook, making it easy to see and find when laying on the ground.  TIP:  I also tie a piece of neon surveyor’s tape to the hooks to make them even easier to see at tent tear down.  Also I COUNT them before packing everything away.  These little jewels are expensive!  But each weighs just  1/3 oz and are twice the strength of aluminum yet 45% lighter than steel.   I bring an extra in the unlikely event I lose or break one.    SHOP NOW

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Adventure Clothes:

Thermal Jacket

I prefer a down puffy jacket.  I have two:  one is heavier insulated (and thus larger even when compressed) that I bring if I expect the temps to drop below freesing, and another cheaper one with much less fill that compresses down to nothing that is my regular thermal jacket for when I just want to take the chill off when I’m on a break and expect temps to be above 40.  I pack the one I expect to need.  There are some decent synthetics out there now, too.  The main thing is to bring a thermal jacket even if you don’t think you’ll need one. This, along with a rain jacket is a MUST for whenever you head into the wild.  In an emergency, it could save your life!      SHOP NOW

Rain Jacket

Another “Don’t Head Into the Wild Without” item – no matter the forecast!  If the weather turns, you get stuck overnight or someone gets injured, you will need the protection of a jacket.  I like a lightweight, breathable jacket that keeps the rain out but lets your body ‘breathe’.  Be sure to get one with a hood.  TIP:  Roll or scrunch your backpacking rain jacket back into your backpack so it doesn’t develop ‘fold’ lines.  This will extend its life.   SHOP NOW

Rain Pants

I pack my rain pants anytime there’s a chance that the temps will drop below 40 degrees F.  If it gets really cold, I’ll put on my rain pants for an added layer of insulation.  Wearing them in inclement weather makes even the worst biting rain and sleet tolerable!  Like the rain jacket, just scrunch them into your pack rather than folding them to avoid crease wear.       SHOP NOW

Waterproof Gloves

Like the rain pants, I only pack my waterproof gloves when temps might go below 40 degrees F.  My gloves (and the rain pants) made all the difference on long hikes in abominable weather.  They can change what could be a dangerous exposure situation into merely an unpleasant one that leaves you with a good story (I’m thinking Jamie’s Scotland 40th birthday party hike as I type this:)      SHOP NOW

Balaclava or Wool Hat

When it’s cold and’or windy out, keeping your head warm makes a HUGE difference.  So it’s important to always stick a warm head cover in your backpack.  I prefer a balaclava.  I can use it as a head covering or as a neck buff, if I jsut want to take the chill off.  You may prefer a wool hat.  The good thing about wool is that it keeps you warm even if it gets wet – a definite plus!  Regardless, seek lightweight perfomance that isn’t too bulky.      SHOP NOW

Gloves or Mittens

I actually have a couple of pairs that I use depending on the forecasted weather – and I always err on the side of the weather turning worse.  If the weather is supposed to be pleasant, I pack my lightweight merino wool gloves.  But more often, I pack my heavier duty gloves, just to be safe (I hate being cold!).  You can get gloves with sensor technology so you don’t have to expose your hands to use your phone – sweet!  Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves, but I find them bulky to use when I hike.      SHOP NOW

Long Sleeve Base Layer Top

I pack my Smartwool base layer top on every trip, even though I hardly wear it during the day, I often wear it as my PJ’s at night.   I like how it is moisture wicking, and even after a rough Baby Wipe ‘bath’, it’s forgiving and doesn’t retain the stinky.  Plus the soft merino wool keeps me nice and toasty and it doesn’t itch.       SHOP NOW

Base Layer Bottom

Like the base layer top, I often wear the bottom just at night to take the chill off.  But on the rare occasion that I’ve worn them while hiking during the day, they saved my butt!  Regardless of the temps forecasted on my adventure, I always pack my base layer top and bottom.      SHOP NOW

Smartwool Socks – Two Pairs

I always pack two pairs of my Smartwool socks.  One pair is always kept dry to be used at night.  I also sewed little loops on each sock so I can use a carabiner to secure them onto the outside of my backpack to dry when necessary.  You don’t want to lose your socks!  Wool stays warm even when wet, but whenever possible, try not to hike with wet feet.      SHOP NOW

Liner Socks

Liner socks reduce friction on your feet, so help prevent blisters.  This makes them a ‘must have’ for me.  I actually have three kinds of liner socks that I use, depending on the weather and my adventure plans.  I like silk liner socks for warmer weather.  I like thicker polyester wicking socks for warmer weather.  But I always pack a pair of ‘toe socks’ (see below) for when I get a hot spot between my toes.  TIP:  NEVER buy cotton!!!  When hiking and backpacking cotton ‘kills‘ because it takes so long to dry so can give you a chill (exception in the super hot tropics, but I still just buy performance synthetics or wool clothing).     SHOP NOW

Toe Liner Socks

Try toe socks if you ever get blisters between your toes.  For some reason, my left second toe sometimes gets a ‘hot spot’ when hiking.  If I slip on a pair of toe socks, the friction goes away eliminating a potential blister!  So I always pack one pair of toe liner socks, plus another pair of either silk or synthetic wicking liner socks.      SHOP NOW

“One” Compression Sock

I always pack a single compression sock in my backpack in case I twist or sprain my ankle.  With this sock, I am more likely to keep the swelling down enough to make it back to civilization (Listen to my interview on the Adventure Travel Show podcast on How to Prevent and Treat Sprained Ankles).  Buy a set and stick a compression sock in all your pack’s Emergency Kits.     SHOP NOW

Long Sleeved Button Up Performance Shirt

I love these shirts!  Wear the sleeve down for chill and sun protection, or roll up and button the sleeves to make them short sleeved.  The high tech fabric helps to shield you for the sun (SPF  30), yet it breathes to keep you cool.  The fabric dries quickly, hides dirt pretty well and even looks decent if you have to wear it in town.     SHOP NOW

Short Sleeved Performance Shirt

I pack a short sleeved shirt that I use to hike in, as a night shirt and/or as a town shirt.  Depending on the temperatures I’m expecting, I’ll pack a synthetic performance shirt for warmer temps, or bring a colorful merino wool short sleeved base layer that I’ll use as my top.  Unless it’s super hot, I actually don’t mind hiking in the merino, although I tend to pack the synthetic because it dries so quickly and I love the moisture-wicking properties.      SHOP NOW

Zip Off Hiking Pants

Get pants and shorts in one!  I love zip off hiking pants and lean towards Kuhl and Columbia brands.  I look for lightweight, quick dry, high quality pants.  If they offer SPF protection, that’s a bonus, as is a little stretch for comfort.  Squat and lift your legs when you try them on to make sure they move and feel right on you.  SHOP NOW

Hiking Boots or Hiking Shoes

Which hiking footwear I choose to wear depends on the terrain I’ll be hiking on.  If it’s going to be super rugged, with lots of rocks and roots tempting to twist my ankles, I’ll opt for the hiking boots.  On easier terrain, I will use hiking shoes.  I prefer breathable hiking footwear, although many prefer waterproof.   Choosing the right footwear for both the adventure AND YOUR PARTICULAR FEET can make all the difference in your enjoyment of your trip.  Check out my Adventure Travel Show podcast episode on How to Choose the Right Hiking and Backpacking Footwear for You.     Buying the right footwear is a critical decision!  If your feet aren’t happy, you won’t be happy!  Be sure to try them out before your first trip!!!      SHOP NOW

Gaitors

If you will be hiking on scree, consider wearing gaitors.  Gaitors help keep junk from getting in your hiking shoes.  I’ve also worn them on grassy areas to keep some of the bugs and dampness off my pants.  They are lightweight and can be useful.      SHOP NOW

 

 

Camp Shoes

It’s important to bring another lightweight pair of shoes to give your feet a break from your hiking boots or shoes.  Even though they are ugly, I prefer Crocs, because they weigh nothing (3.8 oz) and seem pretty indestructible.  I use a carabiner to attach them to the outside back of my pack.  This means they take up no room in my pack, plus makes it easy to slip them on during breaks to give my feet a breather.  Another option would be lightweight flip flops, but I find that Crocs actually make my feet feel good as opposed to tired with flip flops.  When blisters destroyed my friend Jane’s feet, she shipped back her hiking boots at the next trail town and hiked for two weeks in just her Crocs!  Not recommended, but you could never pull that off with flip flops.      SHOP NOW

Bug Head Net

I have very rarely used it, but when I did, I sure was glad that I packed the extra 1.3 ounces!  It truly weighs nothing, and these head nets can be worn over your hat, which keeps it off your face.  Embedded with Insect Shield® Repellent that works for 70 washes.   These head nets work great against mosquitos, black flies, horse flies and gnats.  They sell a jacket and mitten bug net, too, but I’ve never hiked where the pests were so bad that I needed them.      SHOP NOW

If Day hiking only:

Daypack

Line interior of daypack with a plastic Compactor trash bag to make waterproof

Water bladder if I’m going to be in a really hot area 

Two water bottles

‘Life Straw’ or other means of treating water

Hiking poles (wrap duct tape around one and medical tape around the other)

Maps (download a trail app like View Ranger so that you can find your way offline)

Compass

Cell charger if I will be near civilization (adapter if necessary)

Bandana:  I wrap around wrist as a sweat rag.  Has multiple uses

Lightweight performance raincoat

Waterproof gloves if area can get cold

Waterproof rain pants if area can get cold

Lightweight Down Jacket – even if it doesn’t get cold.  You can chill when sweaty and resting

Wool hat or balaclava

Wide brimmed hat

Mini Insect repellant (head net if in a buggy area)

Hiking pants

Roll up Hiking Shirt

Wool hiking socks: bring a dry pair

Sock liners (silk or performance): bring a dry pair

Sunglasses with holder

Toiletries:

Dehydrated Baby wipes

Sunscreen

Hand Sanitizer

Chapstick with spf  

Prescriptions

Emergency Bag:  

Surveyors tape (can mark my surroundings if I get lost or need to flag someone)

Emergency Space Blanket for emergency body heat

Mini cigarette lighter

Baggie with mix of Dryer Lint and Vaseline [Great fire starter!]

Headlamp (I keep batteries out so I don’t accidentally turn it on):  all in its own bag

Mini Pocket knife

First Aid:  Compeeds, bandaides, and antibiotic ointment.  This bag gets beefed up or down depending on how far away from help I’ll be and the likelihood of me needing the item.  I might add gauze and a couple of larger bandaids.  

Ibuprophen, Pepto Bismo pills, antibiotic pills

20’ of Parachute line or other lightweight rope

Carabiner

If in a desolate area or in a really need to self-rescue area:

Small mirror to flash rescue planes

Fishing line and a couple of small hooks

More fire starters, such as birthday candles or extra Vaseline & lint balls

 

If Backpacking:

I bring my large backpack.  Like the daypack, line the inside with a plastic compactor bag to make waterproof.  I have a convertable rolling suitcase that holds my large pack, and can hold my sticks(compacted), all of my clothes and gear, and then I bring the daypack on the plane.)  

So in addition to the Day Hiking items, I’ll add:

Kitchen (if cooking):

Waterproof Dry Bag to hold food

Stove and fuel: check with airline on fuel carriage

Tin foil wind break with punched air holes in it

Cook pot system

Spork knife/fork combo

Camp soap

Shelter and Sleeping:

Waterproof Stuff Sack for sleeping bag

Sleeping bag

Silk liner (helps keeps bag fresher)

Tent and stakes in stuff sack

Thermarest sleeping pad

Mini pillow (optional, but I now always bring it)

Other Clothing:

Base layer wool top and bottom to sleep in

Crocs as camp shoes

Other equipment:

Patch kit for tent

Possibly gaiters

 

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Cycling Clothes

Cycling Shirt

Just pack one cycling shirt (two if you whole trip involves cycling) and wash it in your sink at night.  If you are biking in colder temps or want more sun protection, you may prefer a long sleeved cycling shirt instead.  Look for breathable fabric with safety reflective properties.  SHOP NOW

Padded Cycling Pants or Shorts

Pack your prefered cycling pants or shorts.  A quality pair is breathable.  Some even come with SPF protection.  Gel padding keeps your butt from getting too raw, but if you will be on the bike for several hours each day, make sure you train not just your body, but also your butt for the stress of sitting on a bike seat for so long.  SHOP NOW

Bike Wind Jacket

If you are going on a dedicated cycling tour, you may want to pack a wind jacket.  I like when the sleeves zip off, and I also like neon for great visibility.  You want one that is breathable and water resistant.  SHOP NOW

Bike Helmet

Obviously, bring the helmet best suited to your cycling adventures, but do bring your own.  Some countries may not even have a helmet for you to borrow, so to be safe, pack your own bike helmet.  SHOP NOW

Bike Seat

While I don’t bring one, several of my adventurous friends swear by bringing their own bike seat, particularly if they are going on a hard core biking holiday adventure tour.  It makes sense to pack your bike seat if you don’t want to worry about breaking (I call them butt callouses) on a new seat.  SHOP NOW

Additional Backpacking Gear Checklist:

  • Cell phone and charger
  • Duct tape:  Wrap some around your hiking poles, plus a pencil in your Emergency Kit
  • Neon Surveyor’s Tape:  Tie a piece around your tent stakes, roll up around 10′ for Emergency Kit
  • First Aid and Emergency Kit:  Listen to the Adventure Travel Show podcast episode and get the download
  • Lightweight Runners Shorts
  • Lightweight Underwear – two pair 
  • Sportsbra, if desired
  • Bandana – multiple uses!
  • Sunglasses and strap
  • Wide Brim Hat
  • Toilet Paper in a Zip Bag
  • [Dried out – reactivate at camp] Baby Wipes for bathing
  • Ear plugs (optional)
  • Eye mask (optional)
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Comb
  • Toothbrush
  • SPF Lip Balm
  • Any other toiletries and medications you need
  • MAP!!!

IMPORTANT:  Be sure to tell someone your itinerary, when you expect to return, and when they should sound the alarm.  Sign in at all huts, etc., so folks know you made it that far in case of a search.  What to Do if You Get Lost

NOTE:  Food averages 1.5 – 2 pounds/day;  Water weighs 8.3 pounds/gallon

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