Weekend Backpacking Packing List

A weekend backpacking trip means three nights maximum and covering 8-15 miles total distance. This list assumes three-season conditions (spring through fall) on established trails within reasonable distance of civilization. Adjust for your specific environment and weather forecast.

Sleep System

Your sleep system is your most critical gear. Quality here prevents misery.

• Tent or shelter — Choose a three-season tent rated for your region's worst expected weather. A 2-person tent (3.5-4 lbs) handles weekend trips well and provides room for gear during rain. Consider weight only if you're hiking 10+ miles daily.
• Sleeping bag — Match the temperature rating to your destination's nighttime low, typically 20-40°F for three-season trips. A 2-3 lb bag with a 15-30°F rating covers most scenarios and costs $150-300.
• Sleeping pad — Non-negotiable. A closed-cell foam pad (3-4 oz) or inflatable pad (8-12 oz) insulates you from ground cold and prevents discomfort. R-value of 3+ handles three-season use.

Clothing

Pack layers, not a wardrobe. You'll wear the same base layer twice.

• Base layer top and leggings — Merino wool or synthetic, not cotton. Wear these three days straight if needed. They regulate temperature and don't stink after two days.
• Insulating layer — A light fleece or synthetic puffy (8-12 oz) worn over base layers. This adds warmth during rest breaks and around camp.
• Rain jacket — A 3-4 oz hardshell (not softshell) rated for sustained rain. Cost runs $100-200. This keeps you dry during the hike, not just during camp.
• Hiking pants or shorts — One pair is enough. Choose fabric that dries quickly and resists tearing on brush.
• Warm hat and gloves — Pack these even in mild seasons. Night temperatures drop fast at elevation.
• Wool socks — Two pairs. Change into dry socks for camp each evening. Wet feet at night ruin sleep.
• Hiking boots — Wear them on the trail. One pair is all you need. Bring camp shoes only if your boots are hiking-specific and uncomfortable around camp.

Cooking and Food

Keep this light. Weekend trips don't need elaborate meals.

• Lightweight stove — A canister stove (e.g., MSR PocketRocket at 2.8 oz) paired with a 4 oz fuel canister handles six meals. Solid options run $25-50.
• Pot or kettle — A 1-2 liter aluminum pot (5-8 oz) doubles as mug and cooking vessel. No separate cookware needed for weekend trips.
• Lighter or matches — Waterproof lighter, not matches. Bring two.
• Food — Aim for 1.5-2 lbs per day of dried or shelf-stable food. Instant oatmeal, rice packets, dehydrated meals, and energy bars total 5-6 lbs for three days and fit in any pack.
• Water treatment — A squeeze filter bottle (6 oz) or tablet purifier beats carrying water weight. Ultraviolet pens (e.g., SteriPen) work but need batteries.

Navigation and Safety

• Map and compass — Paper maps (under 1 oz) paired with a compass weigh almost nothing and work when batteries die. Download offline maps on your phone as backup.
• First aid kit — Don't pack a full medical bag. Carry bandages, athletic tape, pain relievers, blister treatment, and tweezers. This totals 3-4 oz.
• Whistle and headlamp — A whistle weighs 0.2 oz and works without batteries. A lightweight headlamp (2-3 oz) handles early mornings and evening camp chores.

Hygiene and Repair

• Lightweight toiletries — A biodegradable soap bar (1 oz), toothbrush, and toothpaste paste. Wet wipes (2-3 oz) handle quick cleanups. Skip shampoo and deodorant for two days.
• Repair kit — Duct tape (wrap it on a card to save weight), safety pins, and a needle and thread fit in a 1 oz ziplock. This handles torn straps and blisters.
• Toilet paper and trowel — Use a small garden trowel (2 oz) to dig catholes 200 feet from water. Biodegradable toilet paper burns quickly or buries easily.

Often Forgotten Items

These aren't essential, but leaving them behind creates problems.

• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Prescription medications and a basic painkiller supply
• A charging cable for your phone or headlamp
• Cash or ID for trail emergencies
• A lightweight dry bag for your sleeping bag

Leave at Home

Common overpacking mistakes.

• A second pair of hiking pants — Wear the same pair all three days.
• Camp shoes — Your hiking boots work around camp if they're designed for it.
• A portable speaker or entertainment devices — Weekend trips are short enough that boredom isn't the problem.