Plan and Prepare

Overnight Backpacking Checklist

Must-have gear for overnight backpacking and camping trips on the Appalachian Trail. 


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ESSENTIAL SKILLS

  • Setting up your personal shelter
  • Storing your food properly
  • Backcountry bathroom skills
  • Backcountry handwashing skills
  • Preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses
  • Community safety practices
  • Reporting incidents and emergency preparedness
  • Learn these essential skills by visiting appalachiantrail.org/explore
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CLOTHING

  • Multiple reusable masks/face coverings
  • Hiking shirt
  • Hiking shorts/pants/skirt/leggings/dress
  • Underwear/bra
  • Base layer top & bottom
  • Insulating mid-layer
  • Insulating jacket
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Socks
  • Hiking boots/shoes
  • Camping/sleeping clothes
  • Warm hat
  • Gloves
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EQUIPMENT

  • First aid kit – including disposable face masks and nitrile gloves
  • Personal shelter (tent, tarp, hammock)
  • Backpack
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Map/compass/trail guide
  • Water bottles or bladder
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Water treatment system
  • Lighter
  • Headlamp
  • Trowel and unscented hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries – including handwashing kit
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OPTIONAL

  • Rain pants/skirt
  • Sunscreen/sun hat
  • Bug spray
  • Camp shoes/sandals
  • Hiking poles
  • Gaiters
  • Bandanas
  • Buff/neck gaiter
  • Pocket knife
  • Mug/cup
  • Earplugs
  • Town clothes
  • Spice kit
  • Satellite communication device
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FOOD

Consider COVID-19 transmission risks when planning meal spots

  • Calorie-dense, lightweight food
  • Food storage system
    • Bear canisters recommended
    • Bear hang set up: 60 feet rope & bag for all edible and scented items.
  • Fuel & lighter
  • Stove & pot
  • Spoon / spork

Download the PDF version of this checklist

Click Here