8 Backpacking Equipment Essentials That Can Ease Your Trip

If you're planning a backcountry camping trip, make sure that you have all of the essential backpacking equipment that you need ahead of time.

Every backpacker needs a quality, lightweight backpack designed for use in the backcountry. Choose a pack that fits your frame properly, is easy to carry, and has plenty of room for all of the essential backpacking equipment that you need to take with you.

The best tents for backpacking are lightweight, yet strong enough to provide shelter in all types of weather conditions. Look for a tent that is made from ripstop fabric and that is coated with polyurethane for maximum water resistance.

Don't set out on a backpacking trip without a lightweight, mummy sleeping bag that compresses into a very small stuff sack that will be easy for you to carry in your backpack.

Be sure to pack a pillow so that you can sleep in comfort and wake up ready to hike and enjoy the great outdoors. Look for a lightweight, inflatable pillow especially designed for backpacking.

A foldable camping stove should be included on any list of essential backpacking equipment.

Make sure that you have a pair of comfortable, quality hiking boots that fit properly before setting off on a backcountry adventure. Break them in ahead of time so that you aren't surprised by unexpected pain or blisters once you are in the backcountry.

Any time you go on a backpacking trip, you'll need a quality water bottle, as well as water purification tablets.

Don't set out on a backcountry adventure without a supply of waterproof matches.

For more information about getting properly prepared for a backpacking trip, see:

• Backpacking Essentials
• Backpacking Meal Suggestions
• Beginner Backpacking Course
• Getting Started Backpacking