These outings are more involved than a front-country excursion. They take deliberate planning and ingenuity, which is both the allure and the possible perils of backcountry trips. We've provided a list of items so you'll remember that particular "thing" that gets you out of a pinch. Also note the tips and tricks to maximize the output of your gear. Backpacking is all about planning – so print off this list and check it twice to make sure you have everything you need to stay safe. Just remember to pack light, pack smart and pack in a lot of fun!

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING GEAR CHECKLIST

Camping Equipment
Item	Notes or tips
Overnight backpack	Use keyword search "Backpack Buyer's Guide" for considerations.
Lightweight one-man backcountry tent	Tip: You may also opt to carry a two- to four-man tent and split poles, fly and tent amongst the hiking party to lessen load.
Sleeping bag	Tip: There is no standardized rating system for sleeping bag temperatures, so each vary by manufacturer. Seek advice from your local Cabela's retailer before making a purchase.
Compression sack	Compresses the sleeping bag into a space-saving size, plus protects from rain if it's waterproof material. Tip: Stuff items like a down jacket, sweaters or insulating layers inside to use as a pillow.
Sleeping pad	Did you know? Sleeping pads offer much more than comfort. They insulate your body from the heat-robbing ground, which is essential for keeping warm overnight.
Headlamp
Trekking poles	They also can be used to hold up a tent fly, wing or tarp for a minimalist, lightweight roomy shelter.
Kitchen Essentials
Item	Notes or tips
Backpack stove and fuel	Base decision on what size cooking containers you will be heating and how long your trip is.
Dish soap	Using a product like Dr. Bronner's biodegradable soap is great for washing dishes. You can also use it as a toothpaste, body wash and shampoo to save space.
Washcloth, bandanna or sponge	Tip: Use the washcloth or bandanna to filter out coffee grounds when making cowboy coffee, and to filter out food crumbs from dishwater for proper sump hole disposal.
Garbage bags with drawstring handle	Base decision on what size cooking containers you will be heating and how long your trip is.
Waterproof matches/lighter	Tip: Carrying both a lighter and matches is not only wise should the lighter fluid freeze in cold temperatures, but good preparedness for emergency situations. Enclose them in a sealed baggie. Carry one on your person and the other in your backpack.
Trail snacks high in protein, carbohydrates and salt. Mountain House® dehydrated meals. Breakfast bars
Multipurpose knife
Water bottle or hydration reservoir and water filter
Sealable baggies/shopping bags to pack out trash
Compact cookware, cup and silverware
Clothing
Item	Notes or tips
Moisture-wicking base layers: Polartec®, Capilene, Under Armour® ColdGear® Midweight middle layers: Fleece, ripstop material Insulating/waterproof top layers: Jacket, rainwear, wool sweater	Tip: Layering allows for more versatility and adjustability to ever-changing temperatures and conditions.
Hiking shoes	Tip: Treat boots with water repellent before your trip to allow for drying time.
Gloves/Hat
Socks and long underwear	Tip: Keep an extra set of each enclosed in a sealed baggie to keep them dry.
Safety Essentials
Item	Notes or tips
First-aid kit
Bear spray
Area maps/GPS/compass
Fire starter	Tip: Create your own by filling the inside of an emptied toilet paper roll with lint and fabric softer.
Emergen-C® powder drink or CamelBak® Elixir Electrolyte Tablets	Tip:Carry a few packets of Emergen-C® in your first-aid kit and pour into water or swallow dry for a quick boost of electrolytes and energy. Elixir Electrolyte Tablets are the same thing in a tablet form.
Toiletries
Item	Notes or tips
Wet wipes Antibacterial hand sanitizer
Dental floss	Tip: Floss can double as thread should you need to repair clothing.
Toothbrush
Medications
Miscellaneous
Item	Notes or tips
Rope/parachute cord	Tip: Parachute cord is a light and durable alternative used for repairs, to hang food, or to hold up a tarp.
Baseball cap
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Duct tape	Tip: Use it as a quick fix-it tool for a variety of repairs. It's also great for covering blisters. Wrap a strip of tape around a water bottle to lighten your carry load.
Zip ties	Another great, lightweight equipment fixer-upper.