Figuring out what to bring for a backpacking trip can be quite a challenge— you never know what you might need. As exhilarating as hiking may be, it can quickly get dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. Here's a list of everything you need to carry with you for your next backpacking adventure.

Food and Water

Always carry extra portions of food in case you're stuck on a trail longer than expected. Carry some lightweight nonperishable food items such as dry fruits, nuts, seeds, energy bars, granola and beef jerky for snacks. For your meals, carry canned fish, ramen, whole-grain pasta, marshmallows, dried soups, coffee and powdered milk. You can also opt for dehydrated meals — they take up less space and are available at any superstores. If you want, you can even opt for making your own dehydrated meals at home.

Carry half a liter of water for every hour you spend on the trail. Carry essentials that's help purify water like a saucepan or iodine solutions to treat water before drinking it.

Safety items

You'll need to carry a first aid kid as hiking injuries are more common than you'd think. Blisters, sprained ankles, and cuts are all part of the hiking experience, so make sure you've got a first aid kit to deal with any emergency. Carry a knife or a multi-tool that'll help you repair gear. Carry flashlights, fire starters and a whistle in case you need any help.

Toiletry Bag

Ideally, all your toiletry should be able to fit in a singular bag. This bag needs to be spacious, have compartments and a hook. Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, deodorant (trust us, you'll need it), a razor, micro-fiber towel, moisturizer, travel-sized shampoo and body wash.

Oh, and don't forget the sunblock! Your sunblock is an essential that needs to be on your person at all times. Enjoy the sunshine safely and wear SPF 15 to protect your skin from UV rays, which lead to skin cancer.

Clothing

We're all guilty of over-packing clothes when going on a trip. However, when you're going backpacking, you don't have the space to bring as many clothes as you like. Don't bring any clothes that you might wear — only pack the necessities. Stick to easy, comfortable and versatile clothes. Research the weather of your hiking location beforehand, and pack accordingly. If it's known to get chilly at night, carry a warm jacket. If it might rain, carry a raincoat. If not, carry cotton t-shirts, a pair of pajamas, pants, shorts, a few sets of socks and undergarments.

Hiking Gear

Carrying the correct hiking gear is essential. A heavy bag that doesn't sit right on your shoulders will lead to an aching back and neck. Nobody wants to spend their hiking adventure worrying about or dealing with these sores, so make sure the backpack you're carrying fits perfectly on your body. An ultralight backpack is an essential survival gear for any hiker. It's got enough space to carry all your things, without being too bulky to cause discomfort.

Check out some quality ultra-light backpacks At Light Hiking Gear, as well as some essential lightweight hiking gear for your upcoming backpacking trip. Our backpacks are durable, comfortable and are amongst the best hiking gear available online.

Contact us today for more information!